Common Sweetener Increases Risk of Heart Attack and Stroke

Xylitol is a commonly used low-calorie sweetener found in many, many different products, including toothpaste, chewing gum, drugs, supplements, and low-sugar or sugar-free foods (e.g., ice cream, candy). It is thought of as “natural” because it occurs in small amounts in plants.

A study from the Cleveland Clinic (involving 3000 adults aged 65 and older) showed that those who consumed the most xylitol had double the risk of heart attacks and stroke within 3 years, compared to those consumed the least. The researchers found that xylitol increased the tendency for blood clots to form by increasing platelet “stickiness”, a risk factor for cardiovascular disease (and also why medications like aspirin and clopidogrel, which decrease platelet stickiness, are prescribed following heart attacks and strokes).

Many of us know how bad sugar is for our health and have switched to sugar substitutes, and gravitated towards low-carb or keto diets. Unfortunately, some of these sugar substitutes, like xylitol, can cause adverse health effects when consumed in high amounts. Instead of seeking to replace all sweets with sugar substitutes, perhaps it may be best to curb our desire for sweet foods.