Once upon a time, “sugar-free” sweets were primarily the domain of those with diabetes. Now, they’re popular among fitness enthusiasts, even those without health problems. However, researchers caution against their use without medical advice. Common sugar substitutes like erythritol, sucralose, and xylitol are under scrutiny.
Last year, scientists found a link between erythritol and heart disease. Earlier this year, sucralose was linked to stomach issues such as ulcers. The latest concern is xylitol. Researchers at Ohio University conducted a study involving 3,300 participants who used xylitol as a sweetener. Over three years, they monitored the xylitol levels in their blood. Those with higher than normal xylitol levels experienced more heart attacks. The reason? Xylitol appears to cause blood platelets to coagulate, increasing the risk of heart issues.
The takeaway? Middle-aged individuals should be cautious about the dosage of sweeteners they consume.
