Is there such a thing as "healthy" sugar?
Sugar substitute xylitol linked to increased risk of heart attack and stroke
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HEALTH Food
Sugar has been demonized for many years, and for good reasons. High sugar consumption has been linked to a number of diseases, and consequently the death of millions of people around the world. But not all sugar is created equal. For instance, glucose in the right amounts can be used for energy, while fructose on the other hand can have a more detrimental effect in comparison.
Xylitol is a commonly used sugar substitute found in products like sugar-free gum, candy, baked goods, and toothpaste. It's a sugar alcohol that provides the same sweetness as sugar with 40% fewer calories. It's often an ingredient in foods that are labeled "keto-friendly." But recent studies have found that the substance may be hiding some harmful qualities. Researchers at the Cleveland Clinic have found that xylitol is linked to a heightened risk of stroke, heart attack, and other cardiovascular-related deaths. The same team revealed similar findings after studying the sweetener erythritol in 2023.
“We’re throwing this stuff into our food pyramid, and the very people who are most likely to be consuming it are the ones who are most likely to be at risk,” said lead author of the study, Dr. Stanley Hazen, referring to those with health conditions like heart disease and diabetes. Hazen says he is advising his patients to stay away from any sugar substitutes that end in 'itol' and recommending small amounts of sugar or honey instead. He added that toothpaste and gum are low-risk as so little of the xylitol is ingested.
From natural sweeteners such as honey to artificial sweeteners like aspartame, our search for a better, healthier sugar continues. But is there really such a thing as "healthy" sugar? Click through this gallery to find out.
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