Researchers report that higher levels of xylitol in the blood are associated with increased risk of major cardiovascular events, including stroke and heart attack, as well as death. Multiple outlets describe findings based on comparing people with the highest and lowest xylitol concentrations.
The reporting focuses on xylitol, a sugar alcohol used to sweeten products such as sugar-free gum, jam, toothpaste, yoghurts and ice cream. The outlets note it also occurs naturally in small amounts, but is added in larger quantities to foods and oral care items. Articles say researchers presented results at the European Society of Cardiology’s annual congress in Munich and analyzed data from 17,710 participants. One outlet reports a 57% higher risk among those with higher xylitol levels, while others present the broader conclusion that the association is consistent even after accounting for factors such as age and sex. Some coverage also describes the possibility of a dose-dependent relationship, where higher blood levels correspond to higher event rates over time.
While the studies discussed are observational, the common theme across outlets is that xylitol’s potential cardiovascular effects are drawing new attention, with writers highlighting the need for further research into long-term impacts.
