Zero-Calorie Sweetener Linked to Blood Clots and Heart Disease Risk, Study Finds
What is Erythritol?
Erythritol is a sugar alcohol that is used as a sugar replacement in many low-calorie and sugar-free foods and beverages. It is about 60% as sweet as sucrose (table sugar) and contains no calories.
The Study
A pilot study published in the journal Nature Medicine found that consuming erythritol was associated with an increased risk of blood clots and heart disease. The study participants were overweight or obese adults who were at high risk for cardiovascular disease. They were randomly assigned to consume a drink containing erythritol or a placebo drink for four weeks.
The Results
The researchers found that the participants who consumed the erythritol drink had a significantly higher risk of blood clots and heart disease compared to the participants who consumed the placebo drink. The risk of blood clots was 2.5 times higher in the erythritol group, and the risk of heart disease was 1.5 times higher.
The Mechanism
The researchers believe that erythritol may increase the risk of blood clots and heart disease by interfering with the body's ability to produce nitric oxide. Nitric oxide is a gas that helps to keep blood vessels relaxed and flowing smoothly. When the body produces less nitric oxide, blood vessels can become constricted and blood clots can form.
The Implications
The findings of this study suggest that consuming erythritol may increase the risk of blood clots and heart disease. More research is needed to confirm these findings and to determine the long-term health effects of erythritol consumption.
What You Can Do
If you are concerned about the potential health risks of erythritol, you may want to limit your consumption of foods and beverages that contain this sweetener. You can also talk to your doctor about other sugar alternatives that may be safer.
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