Low-carb dessert recipes will often tell you to use whatever sugar substitute you prefer. You may want to avoid erythritol after learning the results of a new study.

There has been a lot of research on low-calorie and noncaloric sweeteners and the way they impact the body. None of them are a health food, and we always recommend enjoying sweets sparingly. Desserts and treats should be enjoyed in moderation and as part of a healthy, planned diet. But some options are better than others.

Erythritol is often considered one of the healthier options for sweeteners. But, scientists from the Univ. of Colorado found it disrupts the normal functioning of blood vessels in the brain and increases the risk of blood clots that could cause strokes.

In their study, brain blood vessel cells were exposed to the sweetener at the same concentration level as one can of soda. The cells oxidative stress increased by 75 percent while the production of nitric oxide that helps vessels dilate decreased by 20 percent, the substances that cause constriction increased by 30 percent and the mechanism that stops clotting was disrupted.

“The combination of these changes creates the perfect environment for stroke development,” said Auburn Berry, the research team leader.

The research was performed on cell cultures, not animals or people. So, it’s impossible to say what the real-world risks are. It is concerning when erythritol is used in so many gums, sodas and sugar-free treats. However, the human body doesn’t process it well and mostly passes it through urine. But, some can be stored in the body and build up over time.

Ms. Berry said, “While erythritol is widely used in sugar-free products marketed as healthier alternatives, more research is needed to fully understand its impact on vascular health. In general, people should be conscious of the amount of erythritol they are consuming on a daily basis.”

Strokes have risen by almost 15 percent in people under 45 since 2011. Erythritol is used in Truvia, Quest protein bars, Arizona Iced Tea, Vitaminwater Zero and many other products.

While this study was looking at cell cultures, a 2023 study from the Cleveland Clinic tracked 4,000 people. It found that people who consumed erythritol were more likely to have a stroke, heart attack or early death.

As this study wasn’t in humans, we wouldn’t rush to throw your erythritol in the garbage right away. However, as with all foods, we would recommend being mindful about how much you consume and enjoying things in smaller amounts.

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