New Study Raises Concerns About Erythritol and Blood Clots

A recent study has sparked new worries about erythritol, an artificial sweetener commonly used in keto-friendly foods and drinks. This study, published in the journal Arteriosclerosis, Thrombosis, and Vascular Biology, found that consuming a typical amount of erythritol could significantly increase the risk of blood clots.

Erythritol is a sugar alcohol that can be made from corn and is often found in sugar-free products like candies, baked goods, and ice creams. In this study, researchers gave healthy participants 30 grams of erythritol and observed notable changes in their blood, indicating a heightened clotting risk. Interestingly, participants who consumed the same amount of sugar did not show the same effects.

This isn’t the first time researchers have raised alarms about erythritol. A previous study from the Cleveland Clinic found links between elevated erythritol levels in the blood and a higher risk of heart problems among a group of 4,000 individuals. The researchers noted that the changes in blood after consuming erythritol could last for days, which is troubling for those who regularly consume products containing this sweetener.

Dr. Stanley Hazen, one of the study’s authors, emphasized the necessity of further long-term studies to fully understand the cardiovascular safety of erythritol. He noted that many people, particularly those with pre-existing health conditions, may turn to sugar substitutes like erythritol, believing they are healthier options.

The Calorie Control Council, an industry group representing sugar substitutes, has responded cautiously to these findings. Carla Saunders, the council’s president, stated that for over 30 years, science has deemed erythritol a safe choice for reducing sugar and calorie intake. She also highlighted that the amount used in the study was unusually high and not representative of typical consumption.

As concerns rise, it’s essential for consumers to pay attention to nutrition labels, as many products don’t always specify how much erythritol they contain. The health risks associated with erythritol remain a topic of debate among researchers and healthcare professionals, making it crucial to consider what sweeteners are in our foods.