Various artificial sweeteners have gained popularity over the last couple of years.

Many folks have turned to these sweeteners as a sugar alternative and to help manage conditions such as diabetes or even obesity.

While many of these sweeteners seem to be OK, there's not a lot of research on some of the long-term effects that they might have on you and your body.

A recent study funded by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and led by Dr. Stanley Hazen at the Cleveland Clinic has suggested that certain sweeteners may pose significant cardiovascular risks.

The Role of Erythritol and Xylitol

Erythritol and xylitol are part of a group of compounds that are known as sugar alcohols.

These compounds are often used in low-calorie, sugar-free sweeteners.

These compounds occur naturally in fruits and some vegetables.

However, they are found in very small amounts.

The issue is when these compounds are concentrated in artificial sweeteners.

Research and New Findings

Earlier research done by Dr. Hazen's team discovered a link between high blood levels of erythritol and an increased risk of major cardiovascular events, such as heart attacks or strokes.

In their study published in the European Heart Journal back in June, the researchers analyzed more than 2,000 individuals better to understand the relationship between xylitol levels and cardiovascular events.

They found that people with the highest xylitol levels were about 50% more likely to experience cardiovascular events within the next three years.

Impact on Blood Clotting

Research has also shown that erythritol makes platelets more sensitive to clotting.

Human Trials and Implications

A study was done on 10 healthy individuals who consumed xylitol-sweetened beverages.

Blood samples followed, revealing that xylitol levels in the blood increased 1,000-fold within 30 minutes and returned to baseline after 4 to 6 hours.

The results suggest that xylitol, much like erythritol, can elevate the risk of blood clotting, which is correlated to health issues such as heart attacks and strokes.

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