Caloric restriction may shorten the lives of those consuming this alternative sweetener.
Erythritol, a typical sugar substitute used to sweeten low-calorie foods and drinks, has been linked to higher rates of heart attacks and strokes, according to a study by doctors on the Cleveland Clinic. Tests, published in Nature Medicinesuggests that this substance puts people in danger by activating platelets to easily form potentially fatal clots.
The naturally occurring compound, made by fermenting corn, is 70% as sweet as sugar and accommodates no calories – and is the sweetener of selection for popular brands including Monster Energy drinks, Halo Top ice cream and Quest protein bars.
“Our study shows that when participants consumed an artificially sweetened beverage with the quantity of erythritol present in many processed foods, markedly elevated blood levels were observed for several days – levels well above those seen to increase the danger of clotting,” said Dr. Stanley Hazen. . , chairman of the Department of Cardiovascular and Metabolism Sciences of the clinic.
Hazan further warned that federal guidelines for erythritol and food labeling are vague, calling for more stringent regulation to be considered within the interests of public health and awareness.
Sometimes, in actual fact, labels don’t list the ingredients in any respect, describing them as “artificially sweetened with natural products” or “sugar free,” according to Hazan.
“Sweeteners reminiscent of erythritol have grown rapidly in popularity lately, but more in-depth research into their long-term effects is required,” he said. in a press release. “Heart problems is increasing over time, and heart disease is the leading reason for death worldwide. We want to ensure that the food we eat has no ulterior motives.”
Over three years, researchers studied greater than 4,000 volunteers in america and Europe, finding that those with elevated blood erythritol levels were at greater risk of doubtless fatal cardiovascular events.
Blood and platelet evaluation also showed that erythritol appears to facilitate clot formation.
The findings are especially worrying for groups of individuals most certainly to devour low-calorie, low-sugar, low-carb, and “keto” snacks, who’re also more susceptible to the doubtless fatal negative effects of erythritol build-up — reminiscent of those with diabetes, obesity, or other medical conditions that recommend avoiding sugar and fat.
The researchers noted that more research is required to confirm their hypothesis. Within the meantime, they recommend patients who want to avoid alternative sugars talk to their doctor or certified dietitian about healthy options.