Minimalist image depicting the potential health risks of erythritol with a simple heart outline, red veins, and a spoonful of sweetener, symbolizing the link between the sugar substitute and heart issues.

This Popular Artificial Sweetener Is Linked to Heart Attacks and Strokes, Research Shows

In the article "This Popular Artificial Sweetener Is Linked to Heart Attacks and Strokes, Research Shows," Scott Keatley, RD, provides expert insights into the use and effects of erythritol, an artificial sweetener. He explains that erythritol is a sugar alcohol found naturally in small amounts in some fruits and fermented foods. Unlike regular sugar, it offers sweetness without significantly contributing to calories or affecting blood sugar levels, making it popular in low-calorie, sugar-free, keto, and diabetic-friendly products.

Keatley lists common products containing erythritol, such as Bai flavored waters, Lily's Sweets, Swerve Sweets, DC24 chewing gum, Truvia, and Halo Top ice cream. He also advises caution with erythritol consumption, recommending that people limit their intake due to potential risks highlighted by recent research. Keatley suggests varying the types of artificial sweeteners consumed to reduce the risk of side effects, emphasizing that erythritol, while useful, should be consumed in moderation.