Scientists Raise Alarm: Erythritol Sweetener May Damage Brain Cells & Boost Stroke Risk


"New research suggests erythritol may impair brain blood vessel function and increase stroke risk."
New research suggests erythritol may impair brain blood vessel function and increase stroke risk. / Pexels 



 What Is Erythritol?

Erythritol is a sugar alcohol approved by the FDA in 2001. It offers ~60–80% of sugar's sweetness with minimal calories and negligible impact on blood sugar , making it a common ingredient in low-carb, keto, and diabetic-friendly products 1.

 New Laboratory Findings

A recent Journal of Applied Physiology study by Berry et al. (June 16, 2025) investigated erythritol’s effects on human brain microvascular endothelial cells. Results showed:

  • ↑ Reactive oxygen species (ROS) and oxidative stress (+75%), plus increased antioxidant enzyme expression (SOD‑1 +45%, catalase +25%) 2;
  • ↓ Nitric oxide bioavailability (~20% drop) and altered eNOS enzyme regulation 3;
  • ↑ Release of vasoconstrictive endothelin‑1 (ET‑1) 4;
  • ↓ Thrombin-stimulated t‑PA (clot‑dissolving protein) release 5.

 Why These Changes Matter

The combination of impaired vasodilation, elevated oxidative stress, increased vasoconstriction, and reduced clot dissolution can create a dangerous environment that promotes stroke: narrow vessels plus slower clot breakdown 6.

 Supporting Epidemiological Evidence

A large-scale cohort involving ~4,000 individuals from the U.S. and Europe found that higher circulating erythritol levels correlate with a significantly increased risk of heart attack and stroke within three years 7.

 Study Limitations & Next Steps

  • The current investigation was in vitro (cell-based), not in humans. Clinical trials are needed 8.
  • Still, the amounts used mimic real-world consumption (e.g., one 30 g serving in diet soda or ice cream) 9.
  • Consumers are advised to monitor intake of erythritol and other non-nutritive sweeteners until further studies are conducted 10.

 Practical Advice for Readers

If you regularly consume products labelled “sugar-free,” “keto,” or “low-carb,” check the ingredient list for “erythritol” or “sugar alcohol.” Consider reducing its intake and alternating with safer sweeteners or whole foods.

 References 

  1. Berry, A.R. et al. (2025). *The non‑nutritive sweetener erythritol adversely affects brain microvascular endothelial cell function*. Journal of Applied Physiology. DOI:10.1152/japplphysiol.00276.2025
  2. University of Colorado Boulder Today. (July 14, 2025). Common sugar substitute shown to impair brain cells, boost stroke risk
  3. EurekAlert! (June 16, 2025). Common sugar substitute shown to impair brain cells, boost stroke risk
  4. Sci.News. (July 16, 2025). Study: Common Sweetener Erythritol Can Impact Brain Cells, Boost Stroke Risk
  5. MedicalXpress. (June 12, 2025). Major sugar substitute found to impair brain blood vessel cell function, posing potential stroke risk


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