If you’ve ever opted for zero-calorie sweeteners to cut sugar intake, you’ve likely encountered erythritol. Commonly used in baked goods, ice cream, sodas, and more, erythritol provides sweetness without the added calories.
Despite being deemed safe by the FDA, debate surrounds erythritol’s safety, with past studies linking it to stroke and heart attack risks. Cardiologists have now weighed in on this new research, shedding light on the potential hazards.
A Closer Look at the Study
In a study published in the journal Arteriosclerosis, Thrombosis, and Vascular Biology, only 20 participants were involved. Those who consumed erythritol-sweetened water showed increased blood platelet activity compared to those who consumed sugar-sweetened water.
According to Dr. Nikki Bart, a cardiologist, the body struggles to metabolize erythritol, especially in large quantities. While the study’s sample size is limited, earlier research has also hinted at erythritol’s potential cardiovascular risks.
Given the study participants’ high erythritol intake, caution should be exercised in drawing broad conclusions. Further research examining the effects of erythritol on cardiovascular health is vital.
Implications for Health-Conscious Individuals
While conclusive evidence is lacking, limiting artificial sweeteners like erythritol is advisable, especially for individuals with diabetes, high blood pressure, and heart disease.
Dr. Bart recommends minimizing sugar substitutes, which have been linked to various health conditions. Opting for natural sweeteners from fruits and vegetables provides added nutritional benefits.
Reducing Blood Clot Risk
Aside from minimizing erythritol intake, maintaining a healthy weight is crucial for reducing blood clot risk. Lifestyle measures such as staying active, staying hydrated, managing high blood pressure, and quitting smoking can also mitigate clotting risks.
While more research is needed, prioritizing whole, unprocessed foods remains a wise choice over artificial sweeteners. The long-term effects of such sweeteners on health warrant further investigation.
