Common Sweetener May Damage Critical Brain Barrier, Raising Stroke Risk

Disruption of Blood Flow Regulation

Even more concerning was erythritol’s impact on blood vessel function. Healthy blood vessels regulate blood flow by balancing two key signaling molecules:

  • Nitric oxide, which relaxes blood vessels

  • Endothelin-1, which causes vessels to constrict

The study found that erythritol reduced nitric oxide production while increasing endothelin-1 levels. This imbalance may result in persistently constricted blood vessels, limiting blood flow to the brain and increasing the risk of ischemic stroke.


Impaired Natural Clot Defense

The researchers also observed that erythritol interfered with the body’s natural ability to dissolve blood clots. Under normal conditions, cells release tissue plasminogen activator (tPA) to break down clots before they cause serious harm.

Exposure to erythritol appeared to suppress this protective response, potentially allowing clots to persist and obstruct blood vessels.


Human Studies Raise Similar Concerns

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