
Although it sounds new, erythritol has been around for about as long as grapes, peaches, pears, watermelon, and mushrooms. It’s a type of carbohydrate called a sugar alcohol that people use as a sugar substitute.
Erythritol has been an artificial sweetener since 1990.
Calories. Erythritol contains no calories.
Safety. The World Health Organization (WHO) approved erythritol in 1999, and the FDA did the same in 2001. Erythritol does not affect glucose levels, so it is safe for diabetics. Products in the supermarket that contain erythritol may still contain other carbohydrates, so it is important to check the label.
Erythritol is not absorbed by the body and will not contribute to weight gain.
A 2019 study suggested that replacing sugars like glucose, fructose, and sucrose with erythritol may improve blood pressure after meals.
Taste. Erythritol tastes sweet. It’s similar to regular sugar.
How much can I eat? There are no official guidelines for erythritol use, but most people consume 1 gram for every kilogram of body weight daily.
What are the side effects of erythritol?
Although the body doesn’t break down this artificial sweetener, it can still cause a number of unpleasant side effects. Side effects of erythritol typically include digestive issues and diarrhea if you’re sensitive. The laxative effect that this substance is known for applies to all sugar alcohols. But you’d have to consume a significant amount of erythritol to experience these effects.
Erythritol has no known health benefits when consumed in moderation.
