Feb 11, 2026
3 min read
People who want to reduce their calorie intake or eat less sugar to protect their dental health have turned to sugar substitutes for decades.For diabetics, these options are great, but for your average person, are they necessary or safe?Researchers...
Research: This common ingredient may increase the risk of stroke
People looking to lower their calorie intake or eat less sugar to protect their dental health have been turning to sugar alternatives for decades.For people with diabetes, these options were great, but are they necessary or safe for the average person?Researchers from the University of Colorado reported that the low-calorie sugar substitute, erythritol, can damage the brain's protective barrier and increase the risk of stroke.This was published in the Journal of Applied Physiology.
Erythritol appears to cross the blood-brain barrier, which can disrupt the regulation of blood flow and interfere with clot formation, meaning clots can trigger a stroke, according to the Newsweek article.
A previous study published in the journal Nature showed that these common sugar substitutes put people at risk for cardiovascular risks, such as heart attacks.A University of Colorado study adds to the evidence of potential harm.
What does Erythritol contain?
Protein bars, energy drinks, desserts, snacks and gum all contain this ingredient.The following list is by no means exhaustive.
Protein bars for people on a keto diet will contain this ingredient.
Quest Nutrition Bar Double Chocolate Bar, Chocolate Brownie and Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough flavors
Most flavors Costco Kirkland Specialty Protein Bars
Atkins brand protein bars in various flavors
Energy drinks also contain this ingredient.Popular brands like Monster are among the sugar-free varieties that contain the ingredient.So are desserts, including all flavors of Halo Top Light Ice Pops and Halo Top Keto Series Pops, according to the Center for Science in the Public Interest.
Other sugar substitutes are of concern
The World Health Organization (WHO) has classified aspartame, found in yogurts and sugar-free desserts, as a possible carcinogen.The Cleveland Clinic found that stevia, another sugar substitute, may be harmful to gut health. But research is mixed on whether it's safe.Some experts prefer stevia to other sugar substitutes.
In small amounts, you may not have any problems, but some people report nausea and bloating from using these ingredients in snacks and drinks.
As with anything you eat, drink or chew (like sugar-free gum), it's important to weigh the risks against the benefits to maintain your overall health.
This story was originally published by Men's Journal on February 10, 2026. It first appeared in News. Add Men's Journal as a comment by clicking here.
