A recent study conducted by researchers at the Cleveland Clinic has raised concerns regarding the effects of erythritol, a widely used artificial sweetener, on heart health. The study found a possible link between the consumption of as little as 30 grams of erythritol, an amount often present in a single serving of sweetened soda, and increased platelet activity in the blood. This heightened platelet activity can potentially elevate the risk of blood clot formation, leading to conditions such as heart attacks or strokes.
Erythritol, a sugar alcohol naturally occurring in small amounts in fruits and vegetables, is also synthetically produced and used as a sugar substitute in various processed foods like sugar-free gum, candies, baked goods, and beverages.
While the Food and Drug Administration has classified erythritol as “generally recognized as safe” (GRAS), mounting evidence from research suggests potential health hazards associated with its consumption. The findings of this recent study align with previous research that has linked erythritol intake to issues such as blood clotting, heart attacks, and strokes.
The study involved 20 participants without prior cardiovascular diseases, hypertension, or diabetes. The researchers instructed half of the participants to consume water mixed with 30 grams of sugar, while the other half consumed a mixture of water and 30 grams of erythritol. Blood samples were collected before and after consumption of the solutions for analysis.
Results showed a significant increase in blood levels of erythritol in participants who consumed the erythritol-sweetened beverage, leading to heightened platelet reactivity and clotting potential. This effect was not observed in participants who consumed the glucose solution.
Although the exact mechanisms behind how erythritol influences platelet activation remain unclear, the lead researcher, Dr. Stanley Hazen, emphasized the importance of reevaluating the safety of erythritol as a food additive based on these findings. The research team has notified regulatory authorities like the FDA and the European Food Safety Authority about their study results.
While this study sheds light on potential risks associated with erythritol consumption, experts caution that further research is needed to fully understand the impact of this artificial sweetener on blood clotting and heart health. They recommend a balanced approach to diet, focusing on whole foods rich in essential nutrients while limiting the intake of sweetened products.
In conclusion, the study underscores the importance of ongoing research to clarify the effects of erythritol on human health and calls for a reevaluation of its safety as a food additive.
