The artificial sweetener erythritol is added to many foods. However, this sugar substitute (which is often blended with stevia) may cause health problems . A recent small study found that consuming typical "sugar-less" foods, such as erythritol sweetened drinks or erythritol sweetened muffins, more than doubled the risk of blood clotting in healthy volunteers.
After consuming the drinks, their bodies made platelets (a type of blood cell) more active, which can raise the risk of blood clots. This did not happen after consuming regular sugar (glucose).
The researchers suggest instead of artificial sweeteners, to use sugar, honey, or fruit, but in moderation.
From Medical Xpress: New study adds to increasing evidence that sugar substitute erythritol raises cardiovascular risk
New Cleveland Clinic research shows that consuming foods with erythritol, a popular artificial sweetener, increases the risk of cardiovascular events such as heart attack and stroke. The findings, from a new intervention study in healthy volunteers, show erythritol made platelets (a type of blood cell) more active, which can raise the risk of blood clots. Sugar (glucose) did not have this effect. ...continue reading "More Reasons To Avoid Artificial Sweeteners"