Erythritol is a non-calorific sweetener that is frequently found in over one hundred different kinds of products, such as ice cream, yoghurt, protein bars, and diet drinks. But you are definitely familiar with this sweetener. Recently, however, a group of researchers led by the Cleveland Clinic came across some worrying data that the sugar substitute, which is frequently used with stevia, is associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease.
More scientific work is definitely needed to fully support the claim, but so far we’ve come across this shocking new data that was published in Arteriosclerosis, Thrombosis, and Vascular Biology.
For more information, continue below.
Is Erythritol Dangerous ?
After drinking an erythritol-sweetened drink, you’re at heightened risk for clotting, and your platelet function changes and this was seen in every subject who was tested, explained Dr. Stanley Hazen, a cardiologist and chair of cardiovascular and metabolic sciences at Cleveland Clinics Lerner Research Institute.
This study is based on bigger cardiovascular research that was also conducted by Hazen back in 2023. Back then, blood samples were taken from more than 1,100 individuals who had already been evaluated for their heart risk over the course of three years. Nevertheless, as was noted earlier, it would be beneficial to have further scientific explanations and evidence in order to take some action against Erythritol and reduce the amount of it. Additionally, according to USA Today, specialists who were not involved in the study we should totally use caution when interpreting the findings of the study.
Researchers advise us that we use natural sweeteners like sugar and honey in moderation rather than artificial sweeteners because natural sources do not pose a danger of clotting. You can find more information about the recent study here.
What do you think of the recent findings? Could artificial sweeteners pose such high risks for our health? Let us know what you’re thinking in the comments section below.
