Researchers at the Cleveland Clinic have identified a potential cardiovascular risk associated with xylitol, a popular low-calorie sugar substitute. The study, led by Dr. Stanley Hazen, reveals that individuals with high levels of xylitol in their blood may face an increased risk of heart attack, stroke, or cardiovascular-related deaths. The research highlights alarming findings about xylitol, a sugar alcohol found naturally in small amounts in fruits and vegetables and also produced by the human body.
The study analyzed blood samples from over 3,000 participants who underwent overnight fasting. It found that those with xylitol levels in the top 25% of the study group had nearly double the risk of experiencing a heart attack, stroke, or death over a three-year period. This discovery raises concerns about the widespread use of xylitol, particularly in "keto-friendly" products commonly found in Europe.
To explore the underlying mechanisms of xylitol's effects, the researchers conducted experiments on mice and tested blood and plasma samples in the laboratory. They also administered a xylitol-containing drink to 10 healthy volunteers. Dr. Hazen explained that xylitol appeared to activate platelets, the blood components responsible for clotting, thereby increasing the risk of heart attacks and strokes.
“All it takes is xylitol to interact with platelets alone for a very brief period of time, a matter of minutes, and the platelet becomes supercharged and much more prone to clot,” – Dr. Stanely Hazen
The study's findings carry significant implications for individuals with diabetes as they are already at a higher risk for cardiovascular events. Dr. Hazen emphasized that the very people most likely to consume xylitol are those most vulnerable to its adverse effects.
“We’re throwing this stuff into our food pyramid, and the very people who are most likely to be consuming it are the ones who are most likely to be at risk” – Dr. Stanely Hazen
The use of sugar substitutes has surged over the past decade due to growing concerns about obesity. Products like xylitol, which mimic sugar's taste with 40% fewer calories, have gained popularity. However, experts caution against excessive reliance on artificial sweeteners.
Dr. Sadiya Khan from Northwestern Feinberg School of Medicine advised moderation in artificial sweetener consumption.
“it’s probably reasonable to limit intake of artificial sweeteners,” – Dr. Sadiya Khan
Instead of substituting sugar with artificial alternatives, Dr. Khan suggests focusing on high-quality dietary components such as fruits and vegetables.
“Perhaps the answer isn’t replacing sugar with artificial sweeteners but thinking about more high quality dietary components, like vegetables and fruits, as natural sugars.” – Dr. Sadiya Khan
Joanne Slavin, a professor of food science and nutrition, noted that avoiding artificial sweeteners shouldn't pose significant challenges for consumers. Meanwhile, NBC News contributor Barbara Mantel highlighted that sugar alcohols like xylitol are expensive and typically used in small quantities in products like gum and sugar-free candies.
While these findings underline potential risks, further research is necessary to fully understand the relationship between xylitol and heart health. Dr. Hazen stressed the need for additional studies to clarify these connections and guide informed dietary choices.
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