German researchers have found that high consumption of xylitol, a sugar substitute commonly used in sugar-free gum and mints, may increase the risk of heart attacks and strokes by up to 57 percent over a six-year period.
A study presented at the European Society of Cardiology's annual congress suggests that people who regularly consume xylitol face elevated cardiovascular risks compared to those with minimal intake. Researchers from Charité University Hospital in Berlin analyzed data spanning 30 years from 17,710 participants and found that individuals with the highest blood levels of xylitol had significantly higher risks of heart attacks, strokes, or premature death. Over a six-year follow-up period, the elevated risk remained at 57 percent higher among heavy xylitol consumers after accounting for established cardiovascular risk factors such as age, sex, smoking, and high blood pressure. However, when extended to the full 30-year timeframe, the risk elevation decreased to 18 percent.
Xylitol is a naturally occurring sugar alcohol that is widely added to food and beverage products because it provides sweetness with fewer calories than sugar and offers dental health benefits by inhibiting cavity-causing bacteria. Previous research has suggested that in large quantities, xylitol may thicken blood and increase clotting risks, though its long-term cardiovascular effects have been largely unexplored until now. Dr Marco Witkowski, the study's lead author, emphasized that the findings highlight how little is known about the long-term safety of artificial sweeteners, which are often consumed by people believing them to be healthier than sugar.
The research adds to growing concerns about artificial sweeteners, with other recent studies linking various sweetening agents to metabolic issues, obesity, diabetes, and cancer risks. Independent experts noted that further investigation into this important topic is warranted, though they cautioned that any potential risks must be weighed against the well-documented health harms of regular sugar consumption.
