A study has linked xylitol, a sweetener used in chewing gum and jam, to an increased risk of strokes and heart attacks.
Study findings
The research, published in the European Heart Journal, found that high levels of xylitol in the blood were associated with a higher risk of cardiovascular events over a three-year period.
The study involved more than 3,000 participants in the US and Europe, and the findings were validated in additional laboratory experiments.
Mechanism and implications
The researchers found that xylitol can cause blood platelets to clot more readily, which can lead to blockages in arteries.
They suggested that people should consider limiting their intake of xylitol, which is also used in sugar-free products such as mints and toothpaste.
The study's lead author, Dr. Stanley Hazen, said: "This is another reminder that we need to be careful about the sweeteners we add to our food."
