Many individuals opt for sugar substitutes to reduce calorie intake, control diabetes, or shed excess weight. Erythritol is one of the most frequently used alternatives, commonly found in sugar-free beverages, protein bars, gum, desserts, and numerous low-calorie snacks.
Since it contains nearly zero calories and doesn’t significantly impact blood sugar levels, erythritol has long been regarded as a healthier sugar substitute. However, researchers are increasingly exploring potential hidden health risks associated with this sweetener. Recent studies have identified a correlation between elevated erythritol levels in the blood and heightened risk of heart attacks and strokes.
While these studies haven’t definitively proven causation, they do raise important questions regarding how erythritol may influence blood vessel health. A recent investigation by the University of Colorado Boulder adds to this ongoing debate. The research findings were presented at the 2025 American Physiology Summit in Baltimore. The study focused on the tiny blood vessels in the brain, which are crucial for delivering oxygen and nutrients and protecting brain tissue from damage.
In the lab, scientists used human cerebral microvascular endothelial cells—cells lining the brain’s smallest blood vessels. Healthy endothelial cells help regulate blood flow, maintain vessel flexibility, and reduce the risk of blood clots. The research team exposed these cells to amounts of erythritol comparable to what a person might consume after drinking a single sugar-free beverage. Post-exposure, the cells exhibited increased oxidative stress—a condition caused by the buildup of unstable molecules that can damage cells and promote inflammation over time.
Additionally, the study revealed that erythritol decreased the production of nitric oxide, a naturally occurring compound in blood vessel cells that helps vessels relax and widen. Adequate nitric oxide levels are vital for maintaining healthy blood pressure and ensuring enough oxygen and nutrients reach the brain. When erythritol reduces nitric oxide creation, blood vessels may become less capable of dilating properly, impairing circulation and increasing the risk of blood clots, which can lead to heart attacks or strokes.
Lead researcher Auburn Berry emphasized that these findings suggest consumers should pay attention to their erythritol intake. Although the sweetener is widespread in products marketed as healthier options, more research is necessary to fully understand its effects on blood vessel health.
It’s important to note that this study was conducted on human cells in a laboratory setting, not in live subjects. Consequently, the results do not prove that consuming erythritol-containing products directly causes cardiovascular issues. Nonetheless, the cellular changes observed resemble problems identified in earlier studies involving individuals with elevated erythritol levels, warranting further exploration.
Experts agree that larger human studies are essential to determine if long-term erythritol consumption truly raises the risk of cardiovascular disease. Until more concrete evidence emerges, it’s advisable to enjoy sugar substitutes in moderation and prioritize a diet rich in whole, minimally processed foods. This research underscores the need for ongoing scrutiny of products marketed as healthy alternatives, as new scientific data continues to come to light.
For those interested in inflammation, exploring topics like turmeric—nature’s golden anti-inflammatory remedy—and dietary strategies to combat chronic inflammation can be beneficial. Additionally, recent research suggests that a plant-based diet may help reduce inflammation, and vitamin D deficiency has been linked to increased inflammatory responses.
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