Common sugar substitute may affect brain and blood vessel health.
Yes, recent research suggests that erythritol, a popular sugar substitute, may negatively impact brain and blood vessel health, increasing concerns about its long-term safety. Here’s what we know:
1. Link to Cardiovascular Risk
- A 2023 study in Nature Medicine found that high blood levels of erythritol were associated with an increased risk of heart attack, stroke, and blood clot formation.
- Erythritol appeared to enhance platelet clotting, potentially raising thrombosis risk, especially in people with existing heart disease or diabetes.
- The study noted that even moderate consumption could lead to prolonged elevated blood erythritol levels.
2. Possible Effects on Brain Health
- While direct human studies on erythritol and brain health are limited, animal studies suggest that artificial sweeteners (including erythritol) may:
- Disrupt the blood-brain barrier, potentially increasing neuroinflammation.
- Alter gut microbiota, which is linked to cognitive decline via the gut-brain axis.
- Some researchers hypothesize that chronic sweetener use could affect insulin signaling in the brain, possibly influencing neurodegeneration (though more evidence is needed).
3. Who Should Be Cautious?
- People with heart disease, diabetes, or clotting disorders may be at higher risk.
- Those consuming keto or low-carb products (which often use erythritol) in large amounts.
4. What Are the Alternatives?
- Stevia or monk fruit (natural, no-calorie options with fewer known risks).
- Moderate sugar intake (better than artificial substitutes in some cases).
- Fiber-rich sweeteners (like allulose or small amounts of honey/maple syrup).
While erythritol is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA, emerging research suggests caution especially for high-risk individuals. More long-term studies are needed, but reducing dependence on artificial sweeteners may be wise.
Reference:
Medications that have been suggested by doctors worldwide are available on below link