Artificial Sweetener Consumption Linked to Increased Heart Attack Risk

A recent study conducted by the Cleveland Clinic has revealed that a common artificial sweetener known as erythritol is linked to an increased risk of heart attacks and strokes. Erythritol is a sugar alcohol that is used as a sweetener in low-sugar, reduced-calorie drinks and foods. It is particularly popular in low-carb or “keto” diets.

The study’s findings revealed that erythritol caused a spike in blood platelets and blood clot formation. Those who consumed the artificial sweetener had more than 1,000 times the erythritol level of those who consumed sugar.

According to Stanley Hazen, M.D., PhD, co-section head of preventive cardiology at Cleveland Clinic and senior author of the study, “There is every reason to believe that after drinking the erythritol, there is a heightened risk of clotting, or thrombosis” which could increase the chances of heart attack or stroke.

The study participants were healthy volunteers, averaging 30 years of age. After an overnight fast, they drank water mixed with either 30 grams of erythritol (comparable to the dose in an artificially sweetened soda or baked good) or 30 grams of glucose.

Hazen recommends that individuals avoid artificial sweeteners and sugar substitutes. Instead, he advises consuming whole foods, avoiding processed foods, and focusing on fresh produce.

“Based on the current data, it looks like it’s safer to drink a glucose-sweetened drink rather than an erythritol-sweetened drink,” Hazen said.

The study’s findings have raised concerns among health professionals, and further clinical studies are needed to assess the long-term cardiovascular safety of erythritol.