Study Links Artificial Sweeteners to Heart Attack Risk

A recent study from the Cleveland Clinic has raised concerns about the artificial sweetener erythritol, linking it to an increased risk of heart attacks and strokes. Senior author Dr. Stanley Hazen highlighted that participants who consumed drinks sweetened with erythritol exhibited a heightened risk of clotting, or thrombosis, compared to those who ingested glucose. This alarming finding suggests that erythritol may pose significant cardiovascular risks, prompting Hazen to recommend that patients avoid artificial sweeteners and opt for whole foods instead. Erythritol, which is classified as "generally recognized as safe" (GRAS) by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and the European Food Safety Authority, has not undergone extensive safety testing beyond minimal requirements. Hazen pointed out that previous studies have indicated erythritol can increase platelet activity, leading to abnormal blood clot formation. Other sugar substitutes, such as xylitol, have also been associated with negative health effects, raising further concerns about their safety. In response to the study, the Calorie Control Council (CCC), which represents the low-calorie food and beverage industry, urged consumers to interpret the findings with caution. They noted that erythritol levels were only measured at baseline and shortly after consumption, making it difficult to assess any long-term health impacts. The CCC emphasized that for three decades, erythritol has been recognized as a safe and effective alternative for reducing sugar and calorie intake. As the debate continues, Dr. Hazen expressed hope that this new data will prompt the FDA to reevaluate the safety of erythritol and other sugar alcohols, advocating for greater scrutiny of these widely used sweeteners.