A new study published on 3/8 by the University of Colorado, USA, suggests that erythritol may damage the blood-brain barrier. This barrier helps block toxins while allowing nutrients to enter the brain. When exposed to erythritol levels comparable to those after consuming a sugary drink, the barrier cells are attacked by oxidative stress, causing dysfunction and promoting blood clot formation.

This is dangerous because erythritol also reduces nitric oxide (a vasodilator) activity and increases endothelin-1 (a vasoconstrictor), leading to prolonged vasoconstriction and reduced oxygen supply to the brain. Furthermore, this sweetener inhibits the body's anti-clotting mechanisms, reducing the release of plasminogen, which breaks down blood clots.

These laboratory findings align with several observational studies in humans, which show an increased risk of cardiovascular disease and stroke in those who regularly consume erythritol. In one long-term study, individuals with the highest blood erythritol levels had double the risk of major adverse cardiovascular events.

However, the study acknowledges limitations in its design, as experiments were mainly conducted on isolated cells in dishes rather than a complete circulatory system. Scientists are now looking to use a "blood vessel-on-a-chip" system to better assess the effects under more realistic conditions.

Some types of soft drinks. Photo: *iStock*

Erythritol is classified as a sugar alcohol, a natural compound that the body also produces in small amounts. Because of this classification, erythritol is not on the WHO's list of artificial sweeteners recommended for limited use. Erythritol is also popular due to its sugar-like taste and is widely used in "sugar-free" or "keto-friendly" products.

Agencies like the US Food and Drug Administration and the European Food Safety Authority still recognize erythritol as safe. However, these new findings suggest that even natural sugar substitutes may carry unexpected health risks.

Consumers should therefore be cautious when choosing sugar substitutes, especially for weight or blood sugar control. The benefits of reduced calories and preventing blood sugar spikes may come at the cost of long-term effects on brain and cardiovascular protection.