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According to a study published in Nature Medicine, elevated levels of erythritol in the blood are linked with an increased risk of cardiovascular events, including heart attack and stroke.
Sweet beginnings
Erythritol belongs to a group of artificial sweeteners called sugar alcohols. Less sweet than sugar but lower in calories, these sweeteners are an attractive option for those trying to lose weight, manage their diabetes or avoid tooth decay. Other examples include xylitol (a likely ingredient in your chewing gum) and sorbitol.
Erythritol is a popular sugar substitute as it has a similar flavor profile, “mouthfeel” and texture to table sugar, however it can pass through the body without being metabolized because humans lack the enzymes required to break down such sugar alcohols.
