Erythritol Health Risks: Dr. Stanley Hazen’s study at Cleveland Clinic raised concerns about erythritol, a once-deemed safe sugar substitute. High erythritol levels are linked to health risks like blood clots, heart attacks, strokes, and death.
Erythritol is a sugar alcohol in fruits and veggies. It’s sweet, no extra calories. It’s often used in low-calorie, low-sugar foods, suitable for diabetes and keto diets. Its popularity in these products comes from its sugar-like taste and texture without impacting blood sugar levels. This is a good choice for sugar reduction.
A study on erythritol’s safety raises concerns for those with diabetes or heart conditions. The study found that high erythritol levels doubled the risk of heart attacks or strokes. This knowledge is vital for consumers and food industry workers.
Scientists and doctors seek further erythritol research due to unexpected study findings. Erythritol is linked to heart problems, but causation is unproven.
Erythritol may increase blood cell stickiness. Clotting is crucial for preventing excessive bleeding. Unchecked clotting can lead to fatal heart attacks and strokes.
The study analyzed volunteers who consumed moderate erythritol amounts, a typical intake. This led to a significant and prolonged increase in blood erythritol levels. This means that even small amounts of erythritol, like in keto ice cream and foods for diabetics, can scarily raise blood sugar substitute levels.
Concerns about erythritol’s lack of an established “accepted daily intake” (ADI) from regulatory agencies have been raised. Erythritol is widely used in food and needs a safety analysis.
Dr. Hazen’s work emphasizes the need for a comprehensive study on erythritol’s health risks. The study warns that our consumption of seemingly harmless sugar substitutes can have unexpected health effects. More research is needed to fully understand this issue. Consumers and medical workers should use erythritol cautiously, especially with individuals who have health issues.
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Our Reader’s Queries
Is there a downside to erythritol?
Exceeding the suggested intake of erythritol can lead to unpleasant symptoms such as bloating, gas, and stomach discomfort. Studies have also suggested that prolonged use of erythritol may heighten the likelihood of heart-related issues, including heart attack and stroke. It’s important to be mindful of your erythritol consumption to avoid any potential health risks.
What are the new warnings about erythritol?
In 2023, The National Institutes of Health released a study indicating that excessive intake of erythritol may lead to blood clot formation and a higher risk of heart attack and stroke. However, it is important to note that the study did not definitively prove that consuming erythritol directly causes these negative health outcomes, as our bodies…
How much erythritol per day is safe?
To prevent any unwanted effects, it is advisable for adults to limit their erythritol intake to 0.45 grams per pound of body weight per day (or one gram per kilogram of body weight). For instance, an individual weighing 150 pounds should consume no more than 68 grams of erythritol. This approach ensures that you can enjoy the benefits of erythritol without any adverse effects.
Does erythritol affect kidneys?
Erythritol is commonly excreted through urine, and in certain instances, it may lead to an increase in calcium excretion through urine. This can heighten the likelihood of kidney stone formation, particularly if you have a history of kidney stones or are at risk. To avoid any potential complications, it’s advisable to steer clear of erythritol.