Erythritol, a widely used sugar substitute found in many low-calorie, keto-friendly products, may pose serious health risks, according to new research. A recent study led by the Cleveland Clinic suggests that erythritol, a common ingredient in many sweets, protein bars, and diet drinks, could significantly increase the risk of heart attack and stroke. This research has raised alarms among health professionals and consumers alike, sparking a renewed debate over the safety of artificial sweeteners.
What the Study Reveals About Erythritol
The study, published in the medical journal Arteriosclerosis, Thrombosis, and Vascular Biology, revealed that erythritol might make blood platelets more active, which can lead to an increased risk of blood clots. This discovery was made after the research team observed heightened platelet activity in participants who consumed beverages sweetened with erythritol. The study, although limited in scale, provides significant insights that could have far-reaching implications for public health.
Dr. Stanley Hazen, a cardiologist and chair of cardiovascular and metabolic sciences at the Cleveland Clinic’s Lerner Research Institute, led the study. According to Dr. Hazen, the findings suggest that erythritol consumption could alter platelet function, potentially increasing the risk of clotting, which could lead to serious cardiovascular events such as heart attacks or strokes.
Understanding Erythritol: A Popular but Controversial Sweetener
Erythritol is a zero-calorie sugar alcohol that has gained popularity as a sweetener in a variety of “health-conscious” products. It is commonly found in items marketed toward people following low-carb or ketogenic diets. Unlike traditional sugars, erythritol does not spike blood glucose levels, making it a preferred choice for those managing diabetes or looking to reduce calorie intake.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recognized erythritol as “generally recognized as safe” (GRAS) in 2001, which has led to its widespread use in the food industry. However, the growing body of research questioning its safety is leading many to reconsider its consumption.
Comparing Erythritol to Sugar: What the Study Found
In the study, participants were given a drink sweetened with either erythritol or glucose after fasting overnight. Blood tests were conducted before and after consumption to measure changes in platelet activity. The results were concerning: those who drank the erythritol-sweetened beverage showed a significant increase in platelet activity, a precursor to blood clot formation. In contrast, participants who consumed the glucose-sweetened drink did not exhibit these changes.
These findings align with Dr. Hazen’s earlier research from 2023, which also linked erythritol to cardiovascular risks. That study involved over 3,000 participants and found a correlation between erythritol consumption and an increased likelihood of heart attack, stroke, and death. Furthermore, the study also demonstrated that erythritol could lead to blood clots in mice, further raising concerns about its safety in humans.
Is Erythritol Safe? A Debate Among Experts
While the findings of the Cleveland Clinic study are concerning, they have also sparked debate within the scientific community. Some experts caution against drawing definitive conclusions from a single study, especially given the small sample size of just 20 participants. They argue that more extensive research is needed to fully understand the potential risks of erythritol.
Alice H. Lichtenstein, a professor at Tufts University and director of the cardiovascular nutrition laboratory, emphasizes the need for a broader evaluation of non-nutritive sweeteners compared to traditional sugars. She advises consumers to interpret the study’s results within the context of existing research and to maintain a balanced approach to diet and sweetener use.
Joanne Slavin, a professor of food science and nutrition at the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities, also highlights the importance of weighing the risks and benefits of alternative sweeteners. She points out that while this study adds valuable information to the discussion, it should not cause undue alarm among consumers, especially those who rely on erythritol as a tool for managing conditions like diabetes.
The Food Industry’s Response: Defending Erythritol
Unsurprisingly, the food industry has responded to the study with skepticism. Industry representatives have criticized the research for its small sample size and the dosage of erythritol used in the study, which they claim exceeds typical consumption levels. Carla Saunders, president of the Calorie Control Council, argued that the amount of erythritol given to participants was significantly higher than what is typically found in commercially available products. She also noted that the study only measured erythritol levels once, immediately after consumption, and did not account for long-term effects or lifestyle factors that could influence the results.
Despite the industry pushback, Dr. Hazen stands by his findings, emphasizing the need for more research on the potential health risks associated with erythritol. He urges consumers to be cautious with their intake of erythritol, especially given its widespread use in food products that are often marketed as healthier alternatives to sugar-laden items.
What Should Consumers Do? A Call for Caution
Given the conflicting views on erythritol’s safety, what should consumers do? Dr. Hazen advises erring on the side of caution. He suggests that individuals consider reducing their intake of erythritol and instead opt for natural sweeteners like sugar, glucose, honey, or fruit. These options, while not calorie-free, do not appear to carry the same risks for blood clotting as erythritol.
Alice H. Lichtenstein recommends that consumers prioritize whole foods and limit their consumption of both sugar and artificial sweeteners. She advocates for a diet rich in natural, unprocessed foods and encourages moderation when it comes to sweeteners of any kind.
The Bottom Line: More Research Needed
As with many aspects of nutrition and health, the debate over erythritol is far from settled. While the Cleveland Clinic study adds to a growing body of evidence suggesting potential risks, it is just one piece of the puzzle. More research is needed to determine the long-term effects of erythritol consumption and to provide clearer guidelines for its use.
In the meantime, consumers should stay informed, consider the potential risks, and make dietary choices that align with their health goals. Whether that means reducing erythritol intake, switching to natural sweeteners, or simply consuming fewer sweetened products overall, the key is to approach diet with balance and mindfulness.