April 1, 2025
Energy Drinks Now Considered a Superfood!
Energy drinks are now considered superfoods, offering a blend of ingredients designed to boost your energy and overall well-being!
Erythritol
Sugar Alcohols
- Questionable
Definition
A type of sugar alcohol: a hybrid of sugar and alcohol molecules used as a low calorie substitute for sugar. An industrially fermented erythritol is added to some low sugar and sugar-free foods and drinks.
Health Impact
Can cause digestive issues and discomfort such as bloating, gas, diarrhea, and stomach pain in some people, especially in large quantities. Another concern with erythritol is its impact on blood sugar and insulin levels. While erythritol does not have a significant effect on blood sugar or insulin levels in healthy people, some research suggests that it may be problematic for those with insulin resistance or diabetes. There are also some concerns about the safety of erythritol over the long term. While erythritol has generally been recognized as safe by regulatory bodies like the FDA, some animal studies have suggested that it may have negative effects on the kidneys and liver.
Sources
- Everything you need to know about erythritol
Medical News Today
- A Systematic Review of the Effects of Polyols on Gastrointestinal Health and Irritable Bowel Syndrome
American Society for Nutrition
- Effects of Sweeteners on the Gut Microbiota: A Review of Experimental Studies and Clinical Trials
American Society for Nutrition
- Gastrointestinal Disturbances Associated with the Consumption of Sugar Alcohols with Special Consideration of Xylitol: Scientific Review and Instructions for Dentists and Other Health-Care Professionals
Pub Med
- Chronic toxicity and carcinogenicity study of erythritol in rats
PubMed
- Effect of artificial sweeteners on insulin resistance among type-2 diabetes mellitus patients
PubMed