09-24-2025, 09:15 AM
New research is now showing that erythritol, that “safe” sugar-free sweetener many people trust, may actually be harming blood vessels in the brain and raising stroke risk.
Scientists at the University of Colorado Boulder found that when brain blood vessel cells were exposed to erythritol (about the amount you get from just one energy drink), two things happened:
Oxidative stress shot up
Nitric oxide dropped
Why is that important? Nitric oxide is what helps blood vessels relax and keep blood flowing well. Without enough of it, circulation suffers, and the chances of stroke or heart attack can increase.
Erythritol became popular because it doesn’t spike blood sugar and is low in calories, but more and more studies are showing a different side — linking it to major heart problems. This new finding gives a possible reason why: it directly messes with how blood vessels in the brain work.
Researchers say more studies are needed, but it’s a clear warning to watch how much erythritol you’re consuming in sugar-free drinks, snacks, or supplements. That “healthy” label may come with hidden risks.
Scientists at the University of Colorado Boulder found that when brain blood vessel cells were exposed to erythritol (about the amount you get from just one energy drink), two things happened:
Oxidative stress shot up
Nitric oxide dropped
Why is that important? Nitric oxide is what helps blood vessels relax and keep blood flowing well. Without enough of it, circulation suffers, and the chances of stroke or heart attack can increase.
Erythritol became popular because it doesn’t spike blood sugar and is low in calories, but more and more studies are showing a different side — linking it to major heart problems. This new finding gives a possible reason why: it directly messes with how blood vessels in the brain work.
Researchers say more studies are needed, but it’s a clear warning to watch how much erythritol you’re consuming in sugar-free drinks, snacks, or supplements. That “healthy” label may come with hidden risks.