New Study Shows Sugar Substitute Xylitol Dangerous?

5 comments by Oskar Thorvaldsson

A recent in vivo study published in the European Heart Journal in July, 2024, used metabolomic experiments to examine the effects of xylitol on platelet responsiveness and thrombus formation. The researchers concluded that Xylitol was associated with:

  • Major adverse cardiovascular events at 3 year follow-up
  • Worsened platelet reactivity in humans
  • Platelet and thrombus formation in mice

Xylitol is a naturally-occurring sugar alcohol that has been shown in many studies to have anti-cavity properties and subsequently promoted for oral health. It can be commonly found in gum and mouthwashes today. However, even in these kinds of products, it might pose a problem for many people, and reports are widespread of GI upset from consumption of even small quantities. Unfortunately, Xylitol is added in large quantities because it is not nearly as sweet as stevia, and is suggested as a replacement for the same volume of sugar.  

Conclusion

Despite being considered "keto-friendly" Xylitol should be avoided in any significant quantities. If someone gets no reaction within 24 hours of consuming a small amount of Birch-derived xylitol, it may be safe in that quantity for them. But in the ratios advised, such as replacing all sugar in a recipe with the same quantity of Xylitol, it appears to be an avoidable supplement.  

 

 

References

Xylitol is prothrombotic and associated with cardiovascular risk, European Heart Journal, Volume 45, Issue 27, 14 July 2024, Pages 2439–2452, https://doi.org/10.1093/eurheartj/ehae244


5 comments


  • Susan

    To be credible, we need to know who funded that study. Could be big Sugar, taking down a competitor.


  • Mary

    Thanks re Xylitol, and I suppose that includes all Erythritol Sweeteners. What about Inulin?


  • Jerry

    @HB,
    Why wouldn’t you just use honey if available, Why mix the two ?


  • Lisa

    Monk Fruit has been used for hundreds of years in China..might want to try


  • HB

    Erythritol is also dangerous for similar reasons related to blood clots. Stevia seems to be the only safe alternative in combination with honey.


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