Top Low-Calorie Sugar Sub Linked to Higher Heart Attack, Stroke Risk: Study

Cutting calories could cut life short for those consuming this alternative sweetener.

Erythritol, a common sugar substitute used to sweeten low-calorie food and drinks, has been linked to higher rates of heart attacks and strokes, according to a study by Cleveland Clinic doctors. The study, published in Nature Medicine, suggests that the substance puts people at risk by activating blood platelets to readily form potentially deadly clots.

The naturally occurring compound, created by fermenting corn, is 70% as sweet as sugar with none of the calories — and the sweetener of choice for popular brands, including Monster Energy drinks, Halo Top ice cream, and Quest protein bars.

“Our study shows that when participants consumed an artificially sweetened beverage with an amount of erythritol found in many processed foods, markedly elevated levels in the blood are observed for days — levels well above those observed to enhance clotting risks,” said Dr. Stanley Hazen, chairman of the clinic’s Department of Cardiovascular & Metabolic Sciences. (Read more from “Top Low-Calorie Sugar Sub Linked to Higher Heart Attack, Stroke Risk: Study” HERE)

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