Do you think your “sugar-free” snacks are a healthy choice? Think again. Doctors are sounding the alarm—artificial sweeteners aren’t as harmless as they seem, and one of the most popular, erythritol, is now under serious scrutiny.
Marketed as a “natural” sugar substitute, erythritol hides in everything from diet drinks to protein bars and even toothpaste. But new research reveals a disturbing truth: erythritol may be quietly damaging your heart and brain.
A recent study presented at the 2025 American Physiology Summit found that even small amounts of erythritol, like what you’d get in a single sugar-free beverage, can trigger oxidative stress in your cells. This dangerous imbalance damages tissues, accelerates aging, and raises your risk of cancer, heart attacks, and strokes.
Worse yet, erythritol reduces nitric oxide production, a critical compound that keeps blood vessels flexible and healthy. Without enough nitric oxide, blood flow is restricted, pressure rises, and the risk of life-threatening cardiovascular events skyrockets.
While the FDA still labels erythritol as “generally recognized as safe,” leading doctors and dietitians are urging caution. The growing body of evidence suggests that regular consumption, especially for those already at risk of heart disease, could be a ticking time bomb.
If you’re reaching for sugar-free options thinking you’re making a smart swap, it’s time to rethink. These artificial sweeteners aren’t doing your body any favors, and they might be putting your health in serious danger.
Until more is known, experts recommend limiting erythritol and choosing safer, natural alternatives, such as pure stevia, raw honey, maple syrup, dates, or coconut sugar—real sweeteners that your body can recognize and process safely when used in moderation.
