A New Study Reveals Keto-Friendly Sweetener Erythritol May Pose Serious Heart Health Risks

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A recent study by Cleveland Clinic reveals that erythritol, a widely used artificial sweetener in low-carb and keto-friendly products, may significantly raise the risk of heart attacks and strokes.
New Study Reveals Keto-Friendly Sweetener Erythritol May Pose Serious Heart Health Risks

Artificial sweeteners are increasingly favored by people aiming to lower their calorie intake or manage conditions like diabetes. Among these, erythritol—a sugar alcohol often found in “keto-friendly” products—has gained popularity. However, new research has cast doubt on the safety of erythritol. A significant study conducted by Cleveland Clinic has found a link between erythritol and a higher risk of heart attack and stroke, prompting serious concerns about its safety and long-term health effects.

Understanding Erythritol: What Is It?

Erythritol is a sugar alcohol used as a low-calorie sweetener in various foods and beverages. Naturally found in some fruits like watermelon and grapes, it is commercially produced through the fermentation of corn. Unlike regular sugar, erythritol has almost no calories and does not raise blood sugar levels, making it a popular choice for those following low-carb or ketogenic diets.

However, what was once considered a healthy alternative to sugar is now under scrutiny due to its potential impact on heart health. The recent Cleveland Clinic study has shed light on the possible dangers of erythritol, particularly its role in promoting blood clot formation, a key factor in heart attacks and strokes.

The Cleveland Clinic Study: Key Findings

Published in the journal Arteriosclerosis, Thrombosis, and Vascular Biology, the Cleveland Clinic study has drawn attention with its concerning findings. The research explored how erythritol affects platelet activity and the formation of blood clots. Platelets are small blood cells essential for clotting, which helps prevent bleeding when injuries occur. However, excessive clotting can lead to severe cardiovascular problems, such as heart attacks and strokes.

In the study, 20 healthy volunteers consumed either 30 grams of erythritol—equivalent to the amount in a single serving of a sugar-free product—or 30 grams of glucose. Blood samples were collected before and after consumption to measure erythritol levels and platelet function. The results were alarming: those who ingested erythritol showed a significant increase in proteins that cause platelets to clump together, indicating a greater risk of clot formation.

This study is particularly concerning because it suggests that even a standard serving of erythritol-sweetened food or beverage could potentially trigger a clot-forming effect, which could lead to serious cardiovascular issues over time.

Erythritol and Cardiovascular Risk: A Deeper Dive

The study’s findings are significant, especially given the widespread use of erythritol in the food industry. From diet sodas and sugar-free candies to baked goods and chewing gum, erythritol is a common ingredient in many products marketed as healthier alternatives to sugar.

Dr. W. H. Wilson Tang, the study’s co-author and research director for Heart Failure and Cardiac Transplantation Medicine at Cleveland Clinic, emphasized the importance of these findings. He pointed out that while erythritol has been classified as “generally recognized as safe” (GRAS) by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the study’s results suggest a need for further investigation into its long-term health effects.

“Many professional societies and clinicians routinely recommend that people at high cardiovascular risk—those with obesity, diabetes, or metabolic syndrome—consume foods that contain sugar substitutes rather than sugar,” Dr. Tang said. “These findings underscore the importance of further long-term clinical studies to assess the cardiovascular safety of erythritol and other sugar substitutes.”

The study also raises questions about the safety of erythritol for individuals without pre-existing cardiovascular conditions. The participants in the study were healthy adults, yet they still showed a significant increase in blood clot formation after consuming erythritol. This suggests that even people without known heart problems could be at risk if they consume products containing this sweetener regularly.

The Role of Regulatory Bodies: FDA and Beyond

One of the most surprising aspects of this study is the fact that erythritol, despite these potential risks, remains unregulated by the FDA. Classified as a GRAS ingredient, erythritol is widely used in food products without any specific restrictions or warnings regarding its potential impact on heart health.

This lack of regulation has prompted calls for action from some experts. Dr. Stanley Hazen, the study’s senior and corresponding author, and chair of Cardiovascular and Metabolic Sciences at Cleveland Clinic’s Lerner Research Institute, has urged regulatory bodies to reevaluate the safety of erythritol and other sugar alcohols.

“Other than the bare minimum, there is no mandate in place for this to be tested for safety,” Dr. Hazen stated. “I would like to see regulatory bodies reevaluate the safety of the use of sugar alcohols.”

Given the widespread use of erythritol and the growing body of evidence suggesting its potential health risks, such a reevaluation seems necessary. However, it is important to note that the findings of the Cleveland Clinic study are still preliminary. More research is needed to fully understand the long-term effects of erythritol consumption and to determine whether regulatory changes are warranted.

Balancing Sweetness and Health: What Can You Do?

With the potential risks of erythritol now in the spotlight, consumers may be wondering how to make safer choices when it comes to sweeteners. While artificial sweeteners like erythritol offer a way to enjoy sweetness without the calories or blood sugar spikes associated with regular sugar, they may not be the best option for everyone, particularly those at risk of cardiovascular disease.

Experts recommend moderation and a focus on natural sweeteners when possible. Natural sugars, such as those found in fruits, honey, and maple syrup, maybe a better alternative for those concerned about the health risks associated with artificial sweeteners. Although these natural sugars do contain calories and can raise blood sugar levels, they are generally considered safer for overall health when consumed in moderation.

For those on low-carb or ketogenic diets, it may be worth exploring other sugar alternatives that have not been linked to cardiovascular risks. Stevia and monk fruit are two options that are often considered safer than sugar alcohols like erythritol. However, as with any dietary choice, it is important to consult with a healthcare provider to determine what is best for your individual health needs.

The Future of Artificial Sweeteners: Where Do We Go from Here?

The Cleveland Clinic study has certainly sparked a renewed conversation about the safety of artificial sweeteners, particularly erythritol. As more research is conducted, we may see changes in how these substances are regulated and marketed. In the meantime, consumers should remain informed and cautious about their use of artificial sweeteners, especially those with a history of cardiovascular issues.

It is also important to consider the broader implications of these findings. As Dr. Hazen noted, cardiovascular disease builds over time, and the foods we consume play a significant role in our long-term health. Hidden contributors to heart disease, such as potentially harmful sweeteners, should not be overlooked in our efforts to maintain a healthy lifestyle.

In conclusion, while erythritol may offer a low-calorie, low-carb alternative to sugar, the potential risks highlighted by the Cleveland Clinic study cannot be ignored. Further research and regulatory scrutiny are needed to ensure that the sweeteners we consume are truly safe for our hearts.

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