Researchers at the University of Colorado have identified a potential link between the sugar alcohol erythritol, a common sugar substitute, and an increased risk of cardiovascular events. This research adds to growing scrutiny of artificial sweeteners and their impact on health.
In laboratory experiments, the team exposed human cells to erythritol at concentrations found in some diet beverages. The results revealed concerning changes in cells that make up the blood-brain barrier, which protects the brain and regulates the passage of substances into it. Specifically, the study observed a decrease in the secretion of proteins that dissolve blood clots and an increase in the susceptibility of blood vessels to constrict, potentially raising the risk of clots that impede blood flow to the brain.
These findings suggest that erythritol may be associated with a higher risk of ischemic stroke, a condition that occurs when a blood vessel in the brain is blocked, preventing oxygen from reaching brain cells and causing damage within minutes. You can learn more about stroke and its effects here.
The study’s publication coincides with reports of a noticeable increase in stroke rates among younger adults, with a rise of approximately 15 percent since 2011. This trend highlights the importance of understanding potential risk factors for this serious condition.
Although the study was conducted on isolated cells outside the body – a key scientific limitation – it builds on previous research that has raised questions about the safety of certain artificial sweeteners. Further investigation is needed to confirm these findings in living organisms.
In 2023, a study involving over 1,000 patients found that individuals with higher levels of erythritol in their blood were approximately twice as likely to experience serious cardiac events compared to those with lower levels.
Erythritol is a sugar alcohol that naturally occurs in small amounts in the human body and has a sweetness level of about 80 percent that of sugar. Other sweeteners, such as aspartame and sucralose, are synthetically produced and can be up to 600 times sweeter than sugar.
While sugar substitutes are often used to reduce calorie intake and support dietary goals, researchers emphasize that the long-term effects of these sweeteners on blood vessels and the microbiome still require further study. This research underscores the need for a comprehensive understanding of the potential health implications of artificial sweeteners.
