Xylitol is a sugar alcohol commonly used as a sugar substitute in various processed foods, such as chewing gum and candies. A recent study found that xylitol consumption may increase the risk of major cardiovascular events. However, these findings should be interpreted with caution.
Researchers analyzed metabolic markers in blood samples from more than 1,100 people undergoing elective cardiac evaluations and measured blood xylitol levels in more than 2,100 healthy volunteers. Then, they assessed the effects of xylitol on platelet function and clot formation. Finally, they gave 10 healthy volunteers a xylitol-sweetened drink to determine how xylitol consumption influenced platelet function.
They found that people with the highest xylitol levels had a 57% higher risk of a major cardiovascular event than those with the lowest levels. Xylitol increased several markers of platelet reactivity and clot formation.
Xylitol and its relationship with platelet coagulation.
Study link: https://t.co/dSYmWwDZPT
Xylitol is a sugar alcohol commonly used as a sugar substitute in various processed foods, such as chewing gum and candies. A recent study found that xylitol consumption may increase the risk of major cardiovascular events.
Researchers analyzed metabolic markers in blood samples from more than 1,100 people undergoing elective cardiac evaluations and measured blood xylitol levels in more than 2,100 healthy volunteers. Then, they assessed the effects of xylitol on platelet function and clot formation. Finally, they gave 10 healthy volunteers a xylitol-sweetened drink to determine how xylitol consumption influenced platelet function.
They found that people with the highest xylitol levels had a 57% higher risk of a major cardiovascular event than those with the lowest levels. Xylitol increased several markers of platelet reactivity and clot formation.
These findings suggest that xylitol increases cardiovascular risks; however, they should be interpreted with caution. Learn more about this study and its interpretation in this recent Q&A with Dr. Rhonda Patrick.
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