A recent study from the University of Colorado Boulder has found that erythritol, a popular sugar substitute, may have negative effects on cells lining blood vessels in the brain. The study suggests that consuming high amounts of erythritol could increase the risk of stroke due to its impact on nitric oxide production and blood clot breakdown.
Researchers treated human cells with an amount of erythritol equivalent to what would be found in sugar-free drinks and observed a decrease in nitric oxide levels, an increase in endothelin-1, reduced ability to break down blood clots, and boosted production of free radicals. Co-author Auburn Berry noted that this could lead to constricted blood vessels and a higher risk of stroke.
While the study’s findings are limited to lab experiments, they warrant further investigation through larger studies in humans. As erythritol is widely used in products with sugar-like taste, individuals should be aware of its potential risks and check labels carefully for ingredients.
Source: https://www.moneytalksnews.com/popular-artificial-sweetener-linked-to-strokes-and-heart-attacks-again