ISLAMABAD – A new study warns that xylitol, a chemical commonly used in artificial sweeteners, may increase the risk of heart attack and stroke.
A study published in the European Heart Journal found that high blood xylitol levels increased the risk of heart attack, stroke or other heart problems in three years.
The findings came from an analysis of more than 3,000 people in America and Europe. In laboratory studies, they found that xylitol causes platelets to clot, thus increasing the risk of blood clots.
Incidentally, xylitol is a zero-calorie artificial sweetener commonly used in sugar-free coffee, gum, baking, and toothpaste.
