Health
High blood levels of sweetener xylitol linked to cardiovascular risks in study
An observational study presented at a heart conference found an association between elevated xylitol levels and a higher incidence of strokes and heart attacks.
The short version
- A study presented at the European Society of Cardiology annual congress found that individuals with high blood levels of xylitol had a higher rate of major cardiovascular events over six-year and 30-year periods.
- Researchers evaluated blood samples from 17,710 individuals, finding a dose-dependent link between higher xylitol levels and increased risk of heart attack, stroke, or death.
- Experts emphasize that the observational research demonstrates an association rather than direct causation, calling for further studies into xylitol's long-term cardiovascular safety.
Key facts
- A study analyzing 17,710 people found that those in the top 25% of blood xylitol levels were 57% more likely to suffer a heart attack, stroke, or death within six years compared to those in the bottom 25%.[The Guardian]
- After a 30-year follow-up period, individuals in the highest quartile of xylitol levels remained 18% more likely to have experienced a major cardiac event.[The Guardian]
- The research was presented at the European Society of Cardiology annual congress in Munich by lead author Dr. Marco Witkowski of Charité university hospital in Berlin.[The Guardian]
- The statistical association held regardless of age, sex, body mass index, diabetes, hypertension, or lipid levels.[The Guardian]
What remains uncertain
- Because the research relies on an observational design, it cannot establish whether xylitol directly causes cardiovascular events or if other unmeasured factors contribute to the association.[The Guardian]
Sources
- Sweetener used in chewing gum and jam linked to strokes and heart attacksThe Guardian - Science