New studies underscore alarming health dangers linked to erythritol, a common sugar alcohol used as a sugar substitute which is massively marketed as a safe low-calorie alternative. A new cellular study published in the British Journal of Pharmacology suggests that erythritol can directly impair brain and blood vessel health. These results indicate that consuming just one serving of an erythritol-sweetened drink may result in dangerous effects.
The paper provides direct evidence etherithritol begins to destructively interfere with production of a nitric oxide. This molecule is key for allowing blood vessels to relax and dilate. Research analisys found that the erythritol-treated cells had a nearly complete increase in ROS levels. These unwanted molecules can lead to catastrophic cellular destruction. Moreover, erythritol dramatically suppressed production of nitric oxide, a key protective molecule, in blood vessel cells, adding to its promotion of oxidative stress.
Dr. Thomas M. Holland, an accomplished scientist in this area, emphasized the importance of these discoveries. He noted that reduced nitric oxide generation is consistent with the pathogenesis of vascular conditions, like thrombi and stroke, often seen at initial stages. He explained that frequent intake of erythritol was found to have a negative impact on vascular health and function.
“Erythritol triggers a surge in harmful molecules called reactive oxygen species (ROS), which cause cellular damage,” – Thomas M. Holland
The study found that cells treated with erythritol had a significant increase in two important antioxidant enzymes. This boost is an indication of the body’s vigorous effort to fight oxidative stress. Even with these protective measures, the increased levels of stress are still bad news for health.
Auburn Berry, co-author of the study, provided a little more context on the impact their research could have. “The most important point of our study is that non-nutritive sweeteners, in this case erythritol, can have negative health effects,” Berry remarked. In general, he recommended consumers be aware of their erythritol consumption on a daily basis. This is no small feat, particularly when one considers that it has been approved as a food additive in the United States since 2001.
“Based on our cell studies and recent clinical studies, people should be conscious of the amount of erythritol they are consuming on a daily basis,” – Auburn Berry
Dr. Holland spoke to this issue, calling Ronuts’ marketing of erythritol an “innocent alternative” an affront to the truth. He preached moderation, especially to those with any risk factors for vascular disease.
“The findings challenge the perception of erythritol as a harmless sugar substitute and underscore the need for moderation,” – Thomas M. Holland
To minimize any adverse effects, natural sweeteners are suggested by the experts. In place of sugar, Dr. Holland recommends options like honey or fruit-based sweeteners, which include date syrup. He noted that stevia and monk fruit extract were safer replacements for erythritol. There do not appear to be any detrimental effects of these natural sweeteners on oxidative stress or endothelial function.
“Instead of erythritol and other artificial sweeteners, opt for more natural options, such as honey or fruit-based sweeteners like date syrup,” – Thomas M. Holland
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