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Xylitol is a common low-calorie sweetener used in gum, candy and oral care products.
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New research suggests xylitol may be linked to an increased risk of heart attack and stroke.
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Experts share what you need to know about artificial sweeteners.
Artificial sweeteners While they may be helpful for people who need to manage their blood sugar levels, these sugar substitutes could pose serious health risks. New research shows that the low-calorie sweetener xylitol: Increased risk of heart attack and strokeBut what is xylitol, and how does consuming it affect your overall health?
The study was published in European Heart JournalA study led by the Cleveland Clinic found a link between low-calorie sugar substitutes and an increased risk of heart attack, stroke or cardiovascular-related death.
Meet the experts: Grace A. DeRocha, MBA, RD, CDCESA spokesman for the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, Adedapo Iluyomade, MDPreventive cardiologist at Baptist Health Miami Heart and Vascular Institute. Jackie Nugent, RDN, CDNChef, Nutritionist, Author Plant-based diabetes treatment recipes.
The researchers measured blood xylitol levels in more than 3,000 participants and found that those with xylitol levels in the top 25% of the study group had nearly twice the risk of heart attack, stroke, or death over the next three years compared with those in the bottom quartile.
Additionally, the researchers wanted to understand how xylitol affects heart health, so they ran three experiments: feeding mice xylitol, spiking their blood and plasma with xylitol in the lab, and giving 10 healthy volunteers a drink with xylitol. In all three tests, xylitol appeared to activate platelets, the blood components that control blood clotting. Blood clots are a major cause of heart attacks and strokes.
So what is xylitol, and is it safe to eat? Here, an expert explains everything you need to know about the low-calorie sweetener.
What is Xylitol?
Xylitol is a sugar alcohol used as a sweetener. Grace A. DeRocha, MBA, RD, CDCES“Vitamin C is found naturally in small amounts in a variety of fruits and vegetables and is also produced by the human body during normal metabolism,” she explains, a spokesperson for the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics.
Xylitol is almost as sweet as sucrose (table sugar) but has fewer calories, DeRocha said. Common uses for xylitol include:
Uses of Xylitol
Xylitol may be a useful alternative to traditional sugar for people who need to control their total carbohydrate intake and blood sugar levels, such as those with diabetes. Type 2 diabetes,To tell Jackie Nugent, RDN, CDNChef, Nutritionist, Author Plant-based diabetes treatment recipes“It’s 2.4 calories per gram, instead of the typical 4 calories. [in table sugar]”It could potentially be a useful dietary treatment for people who are obese or overweight,” Nugent said. the study It may help you feel fuller, she says.
DeRocha added that people may also use xylitol as a sweetener while trying to improve their dental health.
Does xylitol affect your teeth?
Yes, xylitol can have a positive effect on dental health. Adedapo Iluyomade, MD“It helps reduce the growth of harmful bacteria in the mouth, lowering your risk of cavities and tooth decay, which is why it’s often found in toothpastes and mouthwashes,” explains John Myers, a preventive cardiologist at Baptist Health Miami Heart and Vascular Institute.
Together Reduce the risk of tooth decayAccording to DeRocha, xylitol increases saliva production, which helps neutralize acids and repair tooth enamel. “Chewing xylitol gum helps maintain good oral hygiene by increasing saliva production and reducing plaque buildup,” she advises.
Is Xylitol Poisonous to Dogs?
Yes. Do not feed your puppy leftover food that contains xylitol. Toxic to dogs“But if a cat (or ferret!) licks it, it’s not going to cause any serious problems,” she points out.
Anyone who uses xylitol knows that it Highly toxic to dogs“Even small amounts can be deadly to a puppy if accidentally ingested,” says Dr. Iluyomade, and Dr. DeRocha agrees, saying even minute amounts of xylitol can cause serious health problems for puppies.
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Hypoglycemia: Xylitol causes a rapid release of insulin in your dog’s body, resulting in a sudden drop in blood sugar levels (hypoglycemia). Symptoms of hypoglycemia include vomiting, weakness, lethargy, loss of coordination, seizures and, in severe cases, coma and death.
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Liver Damage: If a dog ingests large amounts of xylitol, it can cause acute liver failure and death. Symptoms of liver failure may not appear immediately, but may include jaundice, vomiting, diarrhea, and lethargy.
If you suspect your dog has ingested xylitol, DeRocha says it’s important to take them to the vet right away. “Early intervention greatly increases the chances of recovery,” she says.
Side effects of xylitol
For humans, ingesting xylitol is generally safe, but it can cause some side effects, especially if taken in large amounts, DeRocha says. Side effects include:
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Gastrointestinal problemsThe most common side effects are digestive problems such as bloating, gas, and diarrhea. Xylitol is a sugar alcohol that is fermented by gut bacteria, causing these symptoms.
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Laxative Effects: Xylitol can have a laxative effect when consumed in large quantities, increasing bowel movements and potentially causing diarrhea.
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Allergic reactions: Although rare, some people may experience allergic reactions to xylitol, including skin rashes and respiratory problems.
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Interfering with nutrient absorption: Consuming too much sugar alcohols, including xylitol, can interfere with the absorption of certain nutrients and electrolytes.
Most people can safely consume xylitol in moderate amounts, such as in sugar-free gum and candy, DeRocha said. Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)) and other people with gastrointestinal sensitivities may experience more pronounced side effects, she notes.
Conclusion
In general, it’s best to limit yourself to one serving of foods or drinks containing this sugar alcohol per day, and no more than two, Nugent says. But if you have or are at risk for cardiovascular disease, it may be best to talk to your doctor about using xylitol, she advises. “Just because a little bit can help doesn’t mean more is better. Based on this study, high xylitol intake may be associated with increased risks to cardiovascular health,” Nugent points out.
This new study highlights a potential link between xylitol consumption and an increased risk of heart attack and stroke, says Dr. Iluyomade. “This is an important finding and highlights the need for moderation and further research.” Although xylitol has benefits such as a low glycemic index (low impact on blood sugar levels) and dental health benefits, Dr. Iluyomade says caution is needed with its consumption given the potential cardiovascular risks. Patients should be aware of these potential risks and consult with their health care provider when considering dietary changes, including xylitol, he advises.
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