“Hearst Magazines and Yahoo may receive a commission or revenue from these links on certain items.”
[table-of-contents] Stripped
-
Xylitol is a common low-calorie sweetener used in gum, candy, and oral care products.
-
New study links xylitol to increased risk of heart attack and stroke.
-
Experts share what you need to know about artificial sweeteners.
Artificial sweeteners It may be helpful for some people who need to control their blood sugar, but these sugar substitutes can pose some serious health risks. A new study shows that the low-calorie sweetener Xylitol from A Increased risk of heart attack and stroke. But what is xylitol? And how can its use affect your overall health?
A study published in European Heart JournalA study led by the Cleveland Clinic found an association 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 spokesperson for the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics; Adedapo Iluyomade, M.Dpreventive cardiologist with Baptist Health Miami Heart and Vascular Institute; Jackie Newgent, RDN, CDNchef, culinary expert and author Plant-based diabetes recipes.
Researchers measured xylitol levels in the blood of more than 3,000 participants and found that those with xylitol levels in the top 25% of the study group doubled their risk of heart attack, stroke or death over the next three years. Compared to the previous quarter.
In addition, the researchers wanted to understand how xylitol affects heart health and conducted three experiments: feeding xylitol to rats, adding it to blood and plasma in the lab, and giving 10 healthy volunteers a drink containing xylitol. In all three tests, xylitol appeared to activate platelets, which regulate blood clotting, a major cause of heart attacks and strokes.
So, what is xylitol, and is it safe to eat? Here, experts explain everything you need to know about the low-calorie dessert.
What is xylitol?
Xylitol is a sugar alcohol used as a sweetener Grace A. Derocha, MBA, RD, CDCES, a spokesperson for the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. “It is found naturally in small amounts in various fruits and vegetables and is produced by the human body during normal metabolism,” she said.
Xylitol has the same sweetness as sucrose (table sugar) but with fewer calories, DeRocha says. In Derocha, xylitol is most commonly used in:
It uses xylitol
Xylitol can be useful for people who need to control the total amount of carbohydrates or blood glucose in place of traditional sugar, like people. Type 2 diabetesHe says Jackie Newgent, RDN, CDNchef, culinary expert and author Plant-based diabetes recipes. “Giving 2.4 calories per gram instead of the usual 4 calories [in table sugar]”It can be beneficial in the diet of people who are overweight or obese,” Nugent said. in addition, Research It suggests it may be useful for increasing satisfaction, she says.
People can use xylitol for its sweetening properties when looking to improve dental health, DeRocha added.
Does xylitol affect teeth?
Yes, xylitol claims to have a positive effect on dental health. Adedapo Iluyomade, M.D, a preventive cardiologist with Baptist Health Miami Heart and Vascular Institute. “It reduces the growth of harmful bacteria in the mouth, thereby reducing the risk of cavities and tooth decay, which is why it is often included in toothpaste and mouthwash,” he explained.
along with Reduces the risk of tooth decay, xylitol stimulates saliva production, which neutralizes acid and helps repair plaque, DeRocha says. “Chewing xylitol gum can help maintain oral hygiene by increasing saliva flow and reducing plaque formation,” she advises.
Is xylitol toxic to dogs?
Yes. Don’t let your dog eat your leftovers that contain xylitol – this can happen. Poison for dogssays Newgent. “But if your cat (or ferret!) says so, it’s not a big deal,” she said.
Anyone who uses xylitol should know They are very toxic to dogs” says Dr. Iluyomade. “Even a small amount accidentally ingested can kill them.” DeRocha agrees that even small amounts of xylitol can cause serious health problems in puppies, including:
-
Hypoglycemia: Xylitol causes a rapid release of insulin in dogs, which can cause a sudden and severe drop in blood sugar (hypoglycemia). Symptoms of hypoglycemia include vomiting, weakness, drowsiness, loss of coordination, seizures and, in severe cases, coma or death.
-
Liver Damage: Eating large amounts of xylitol can cause severe liver failure in dogs, which can be fatal. Symptoms of liver failure may not appear immediately, but may include jaundice, vomiting, diarrhea, and depression.
If you suspect your dog has xylitol, it’s important to seek veterinary care immediately, DeRocha says. “Early intervention greatly improves the chances of recovery,” she says.
Side effects of xylitol
In general, xylitol is safe for humans to consume, but it can cause some side effects, especially when consumed in large amounts, says DeRocha. According to DeRocha, these can include:
-
Gastrointestinal problemsThe most common side effects are digestive problems such as bloating, gas and diarrhea. Xylitol is a sugar alcohol that can be produced by gut bacteria and leads to these symptoms.
-
Laxative effect: Large amounts of xylitol have a laxative effect, which can lead to increased stool volume and diarrhea.
-
Allergic reactions: Although rare, some people may experience an allergic reaction to xylitol, including a skin rash or difficulty breathing.
-
Nutrient interference: Excessive intake of sugar alcohols, including xylitol, can interfere with the absorption of certain nutrients and electrolytes.
Most people tolerate xylitol in moderate amounts, such as those found in sugar-free gum and candy, DeRocha says. However, with individuals Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)) or other gastrointestinal disorders may experience more pronounced side effects, she says.
Bottom line
In general, it’s probably best to have one meal or drink that contains this sugar alcohol each day, not two or more, says Nugent. However, if you have or are at risk for cardiovascular disease, it may be a good idea to discuss xylitol use with your doctor, she advises. “Just because something is useful in smaller quantities doesn’t mean it’s better. And based on this study, higher levels of xylitol may carry greater risks for cardiovascular health, he said.
This new research shows a link between xylitol consumption and the risk of heart attack and stroke, said Dr. Iluyomade. “This is an important finding, emphasizing the importance of moderation and further research.” While xylitol offers benefits such as a low glycemic index (low impact on blood sugar) and dental health benefits, it’s important to be mindful of its use, considering cardiovascular risks, says Dr. Iluyomade. Patients should be aware of these potential risks and consult their health care providers when considering dietary changes related to xylitol.
You might like it too