Research published in the Journal of Applied Physiology has found that erythritol, a popular sugar substitute, may negatively affect blood vessels in the brain. In laboratory experiments, scientists discovered that erythritol increased oxidative stress and disrupted nitric oxide production, which can lead to a higher risk of stroke.
Erythritol is widely used as a low-calorie sweetener in sugar-free products, including soft drinks, baked goods, and candies. However, concerns about its effects on cardiovascular health have been rising. A recent study by Witkowski and colleagues found that consuming high levels of erythritol was linked to an increased risk of heart attack and stroke.
The new research focuses on the impact of erythritol on brain microvascular endothelial cells, which line small blood vessels in the brain and help regulate blood flow. The scientists used human cells grown in a lab and exposed them to erythritol to study its effects. The results revealed increased oxidative stress, reduced nitric oxide production, and an increase in vessel-constricting compounds.
These changes are associated with cerebrovascular dysfunction and can contribute to the development of ischemic stroke. Researchers caution that the study was conducted in vitro and may not directly predict how erythritol will affect brain blood vessels in a living person. However, they suggest that people should be conscious of their daily consumption of erythritol due to its potential negative effects on vascular health.
More research is needed to determine whether repeated or long-term exposure to erythritol produces similar effects in living organisms. The study’s findings highlight the need for further investigation into the impact of non-nutritive sweeteners on endothelial health and their potential vulnerability among certain populations.
Source: https://www.psypost.org/popular-sugar-substitute-erythritol-may-impair-brain-blood-vessel-health-study-finds