A new study suggests that the popular sugar substitute xylitol may increase the risk of heart attack or stroke, adding to the ongoing debate about the safety of sugar alternatives.
Knvul Sheikh reports for The New York Times.
In short:
- Xylitol, a low-calorie sugar alcohol, has been linked to a higher risk of cardiovascular issues in a new study.
- The study found that participants with high levels of xylitol in their blood had double the risk of heart attack, stroke, or death within three years.
- Researchers suggest that xylitol may speed up blood clot formation, potentially leading to heart problems.
Key quote:
“They may think they’re making a healthy choice by picking xylitol over sugar, yet the data argues that it is not the case.”
— Dr. Stanley Hazen, chair of cardiovascular and metabolic sciences at the Cleveland Clinic’s Lerner Research Institute
Why this matters:
Understanding the risks of sugar substitutes like xylitol is crucial as people often use them to manage obesity and diabetes, conditions already linked to heart problems. This research suggests that people carefully consider their use of sugar substitutes, especially those managing conditions like obesity and diabetes. Read more: How the FDA ignores the law when approving new chemical additives to food.
