What Are the Risks of Artificial Sweeteners Vs. Sugar
Recent research has raised significant concerns regarding erythritol, a common zero-calorie sweetener found in stevia and keto products. Take a moment to re-evaluate your dietary choices, especially when you are regularly consuming erythritol-sweetened products
Recent research has raised significant concerns regarding erythritol, a common zero-calorie sweetener found in stevia and keto products. A study conducted with 20 healthy participants indicated that drinks containing erythritol significantly heightened the risk of blood clotting, which could have serious implications for cardiovascular health. This discovery challenges the previously held belief that erythritol is a safe alternative to sugar.
Erythritol is classified as a sugar alcohol, a type of carbohydrate that naturally occurs in various fruits and vegetables. While the human body produces erythritol during glucose metabolism, the amounts are minimal. As a manufactured sweetener, erythritol is favoured in low-calorie products due to its 70% sweetness compared to sugar, negligible calories, and minimal aftertaste.
It is widely used in “natural” stevia and monk fruit products, serving as a bulking agent in many low-carb and keto-friendly foods, including desserts and beverages. Despite its approval as generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, emerging studies highlight the need for caution regarding its consumption.
The new study, led by Dr. Stanley Hazen, revealed alarming findings. Participants who ingested 30 grams of erythritol experienced a thousandfold increase in erythritol levels in their blood within just 30 minutes. Unlike glucose, which did not show any significant effect on blood platelet activity, erythritol consumption resulted in substantial increases in platelet responsiveness. This raises immediate concerns about the risk of blood clots, which could lead to heart attacks or strokes.
Given this potential threat, those with pre-existing health conditions—such as cardiovascular issues or diabetes—should particularly reconsider their intake of products containing erythritol. Dr. Hazen emphasizes that many adults already have multiple risk factors for heart disease, making them more vulnerable to the negative effects of this sweetener.
In response to the study, the Calorie Control Council defended erythritol as a safe and effective sugar substitute. However, experts suggest that the consumption of this sweetener should be approached with caution. The amount used in the study exceeded typical servings found in sodas and sugar-free desserts, warranting further scrutiny of standard consumption levels.
As research on erythritol continues to grow, it becomes increasingly apparent that this sweetener may not be as harmless as once thought. The link between erythritol and increased blood clotting risk necessitates further investigation and encourages consumers to reconsider their use of sugar alcohols.
Despite its reputation as a safe sugar alternative, individuals—especially those with cardiovascular risks—are urged to reflect on the evolving evidence and its potential implications for their health. Ultimately, a balanced approach to diet and sweeteners could be crucial for long-term cardiovascular health.
Take a moment to re-evaluate your dietary choices, especially when you are regularly consuming erythritol-sweetened products. Dr. Andrew Freeman, a cardiovascular wellness expert, recommends moderation or re-evaluation of artificial sweeteners in favour of more traditional sugar options, particularly for those at an elevated risk for clotting, heart attack and stroke.
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