Natural sweetener linked to heart risk: should I stop using it?

This isn't the first time a flood of news has linked the consumption of the sweetener erythritol to health problems. Known for being obtained from the fermentation of corn, it gained fame as a "natural" alternative to sugar. However, in 2023, a study by the Cleveland Clinic (Ohio, USA), published in the journal "Nature Medicine," linked high levels of this substance in the blood to an increased risk of heart and blood vessel problems.

Now, new research has reignited the debate. This time, erythritol has been linked to an additional and worrying risk: stroke. And so the question arises: should we stop taking it? Before reaching sweeping conclusions, it's important to understand how these studies were conducted.

The study evaluated approximately 4,000 participants, including Europeans and Americans, all undergoing routine cardiac evaluations. Most had pre-existing cardiovascular disease, which limits the applicability of the results to healthy individuals.

The study also included preclinical, in vitro analyses, which suggested that erythritol could increase platelet reactivity—that is, their clot-forming potential. However, this type of testing only observes isolated cellular reactions, without considering the complexity of the human organism.

Conducted by the University of Colorado (USA), the new study indicated that the sweetener could cause brain damage, increasing the risk of stroke. However, the authors themselves emphasize that the experiments were conducted in a laboratory and that more research is needed before any definitive conclusions can be drawn.

To date, major health authorities continue to consider erythritol safe for consumption within recommended limits. It's important to remember that observational—or laboratory—research doesn't prove a cause-and-effect relationship and often leaves gaps in the health and history of the individuals analyzed.

Cardiovascular disease remains the leading cause of death worldwide. Rather than demonizing a specific ingredient, it's worth reinforcing protective habits, such as:

•Prioritize natural foods rich in fiber

•Stay physically active

•Reduce chronic stress

•Limit the consumption of ultra-processed foods

•Avoid tobacco and moderate alcohol consumption

In this context, sweeteners—which should be used in moderation—are unlikely to have enough biological power alone to cause serious illness. The key is balance and consistent good habits.