If you’ve had a sugar-free soda, chewed gum without sugar, or tried low-carb snack bars, chances are you’ve consumed it.
Touted as a zero-calorie, diabetic-friendly sugar substitute, it has been on the market for over two decades.
It’s especially popular with people trying to cut sugar or lose weight.
But now, scientists are raising red flags about what this sweetener might really be doing to your body.
Just one can could tip the balance
In a recent laboratory study, researchers exposed human brain blood vessel cells to the same amount of erythritol found in a typical sugar-free beverage – around 30 grams.
The cells quickly ramped up production of reactive oxygen species – damaging molecules that indicate high oxidative stress.
In fact, the stress level in treated cells doubled compared to untreated ones.
At the same time, cells reduced their production of nitric oxide, a critical compound that helps blood vessels expand and maintain healthy blood flow.
Both changes are linked to a higher risk of blood clots, strokes, and long-term vascular damage.
Warnings from the scientific front
Experts not involved in the study say the findings are serious.
Though based on cell data, the results line up with human studies that have linked high blood erythritol levels to heart attacks and strokes.
One of the key concerns is the impact on nitric oxide, which keeps blood vessels flexible.
Without it, blood flow suffers and risks mount – especially for people already prone to cardiovascular disease.
The researchers recommend caution. They suggest limiting erythritol intake and choosing safer alternatives like stevia or monk fruit, which don’t appear to harm blood vessel health.
But the bigger message is simpler: cutting down on all added sweeteners and focusing on whole, unprocessed foods may be the best strategy for long-term brain and heart health, according to the researchers.Popular sugar substitute linked to brain and heart risks
This article is based on information from Medical News Today.