Common sweetener raises health concerns

Xylitol a popular low calorie sweetener found in products such as chewing gum toothpaste jam yogurt and ice cream may be linked to a higher risk of heart attack stroke and death according to new research.

Xylitol is a type of sugar alcohol that occurs naturally in very small amounts in some foods. It is also added to many food drink and oral care products to make them taste sweet.

In some products the amount used can be far higher than the natural levels found in foods. Researchers say the long term health effects of xylitol have not been studied extensively.

In one of the largest studies of its kind scientists examined 17,710 people and compared those with the highest blood levels of xylitol with those who had the lowest levels.

The study found that people with higher levels of xylitol were 57% more likely to die or experience a heart attack or stroke within six years than those with the lowest levels. Even after 30 years their risk of experiencing one of these cardiovascular problems was 18% higher.

The researchers also found that the risk increased as blood levels of xylitol rose regardless of age or sex.  The association was also seen independently of factors such as obesity high blood pressure diabetes and blood fat levels.

Researchers said earlier studies suggested that xylitol may increase the ability of blood platelets to form clots which could potentially contribute to cardiovascular problems.

Experts stressed that more research is needed to determine whether xylitol directly causes these health problems.

However they said the findings highlight the need to be cautious about consuming large amounts of highly processed foods and products containing artificial sweeteners.

Health experts recommend focusing on a balanced diet and limiting highly processed foods and drinks that may contain high levels of sugar salt or sweeteners.