Cleveland Clinic researchers have been studying the effects of the sugar substitute “erythritol” on the body.
And what they previously found is that it could put a person at risk for cardiovascular events, like a heart attack or stroke.
Since then, they’ve conducted another study to confirm those findings.
“In this new study, what we did is we directly compared drinking a sweetened drink with either 30 grams of glucose, which is sugar, or 30 grams of erythritol. And what was seen is in every subject, who looking at before versus after drinking the erythritol, every platelet functional measure made was significantly enhanced,” explained Dr. Stanley Hazen, a cardiology specialist for Cleveland Clinic. “So, there is every reason to believe that after drinking erythritol, there is a heightened risk of clotting, or thrombosis, but that was not seen with the glucose.”
Hazen, who led the research, said erythritol is commonly used in baked goods, some candies and gum.
It’s just one of many sugar substitutes out there.
So, why is it considered unsafe?
Hazen said it has to do with how it can impact clotting, which can in turn put a person at risk for heart attack or stroke.
He notes their research is ongoing, but they have found similar trends with other sugar substitutes.
So far, no changes have been made as a result at the federal level, but it’s his hope that it could one day.
In the meantime, he suggests people steer clear of sugar substitutes.
“What I am recommending to my patients is to avoid the artificial sweeteners, avoid sugar substitutes, to try to eat whole foods, stay away from processed foods and shop the produce section,” he said. “Make your own food, then you know what goes into it.”
As an alternative, he would recommend eating something with actual sugar in it -- but make sure it’s in moderation.
Adding honey to your food is also an option.