Daily consumption of a single beverage sweetened with erythritol could potentially impair brain and vascular health.
In a recent study published in the Journal of Applied Physiology, researchers from the "Research Group of Neurovascular Physiology" have found that the non-caloric sweetener erythritol, commonly used in sugar-free products, may pose a risk to brain and blood vessel health.
Erythritol, which has been approved as a food additive in the United States since 2001, triggers a surge in harmful molecules called reactive oxygen species (ROS), causing cellular damage, particularly in neural tissue. According to the study's first author, Auburn Berry, MS, erythritol disrupts the production of nitric oxide in cells, a molecule crucial for maintaining healthy blood vessels.
Thomas M. Holland, MD, MS, a physician-scientist, explains that this interference with nitric oxide production makes cells less effective at producing the molecule, potentially contributing to impaired blood vessel function and neurovascular damage. The study's findings were presented at the 2025 American Physiology Summit.
The research group conducted experiments in a lab, exposing human brain blood vessel cells to an erythritol solution containing roughly the same amount found in a single can of artificially sweetened beverage. Compared to untreated cells, the erythritol-treated cells produced significantly higher levels of reactive oxygen species, a type of free radicals, and less nitric oxide.
These cellular effects - reduced nitric oxide production and elevated oxidative stress - are consistent with early events in vascular diseases, including thrombosis and strokes. Thomas M. Holland comments that the study offers valuable insights into the potential risks of erythritol on brain blood vessel health, especially for people seeking to improve or protect their vascular and cognitive function.
However, it's essential to note that the study is preliminary and more research is needed to fully understand the long-term effects of erythritol consumption on human health. Thomas M. Holland advises opting for more natural sweeteners like honey or fruit-based sweeteners like date syrup, while for non-caloric sweeteners, he suggests stevia and monk fruit extract as safer choices. He emphasizes that reducing overall reliance on sweeteners and focusing on whole foods is likely the most effective path for long-term brain and vascular health.
The study's findings have sparked growing concerns about the safety of erythritol and its potential side effects on human health. Individuals concerned about heart or brain health should consider limiting their intake of erythritol, warns Auburn Berry. Thomas M. Holland also cautions that the findings challenge the perception of erythritol as a harmless sugar substitute and underscore the need for moderation, particularly in those with risk factors for vascular disease.
Recent research proposes a link between higher levels of erythritol in the blood and an increased risk of heart attack or stroke, partly due to increased blood clot formation. The new cell study indicates that the amount of erythritol found in a single beverage serving may negatively impact brain and blood vessel health, potentially increasing the risk of ischemic stroke.
The research group's study on erythritol's effects on oxidative stress and nitric oxide production in brain blood vessel cells was published in the journal "Redox Biology." As more studies explore the potential risks of erythritol, it's crucial to stay informed and make informed decisions about the sweeteners we consume.
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