This Artificial Sweetener Can Raise Your Risk of Heart Attack, Stroke

Zero calorie claims on food labels seem like a huge win, but new research shows one ingredient may be hiding a dangerous secret.

New research from the Cleveland Clinic links Erythritol – an artificial sweetener without the calories of sugar – with blood clots that trigger heart attack and stroke. And the results can be deadly.

“While artificial sweeteners, generally considered safe by the Food and Drug Administration, help people avoid excess dietary sugar, which is associated with obesity, diabetes and cardiovascular disease, this evidence shows they can still increase risk for cardiac events,” says Steven Borer, DO, a Hartford HealthCare Heart & Vascular Institute cardiologist.

Dr. Borer shares what you need to know about erythritol, the risks, and how you can protect yourself here.