Date of Award
Spring 5-9-2026
Document Type
Honors Thesis
Department/Major
Basic Biomedical Science
Additional Department
Psychology
First Advisor
Wynette Mockler
Second Advisor
Timmi Johnson
Third Advisor
Morgan Eikanger
Keywords
Erythritol, Health Outcomes, Cardiovascular, Gastrointestinal
Subject Categories
Human and Clinical Nutrition
Abstract
Erythritol, a commonly used non-nutritive sweetener, has gained popularity as a sugar alternative due to its low caloric value and minimal effect on blood glucose levels; however, emerging research has raised questions about its overall safety. This literature review critically evaluates current peer-reviewed evidence on the effects of erythritol on the cardiovascular and gastrointestinal systems. Findings indicate that erythritol is generally well tolerated in the gastrointestinal tract, with fewer adverse effects than other sugar alcohols due to its rapid absorption and limited fermentation, although symptoms may be dose-dependent and influenced by co-ingestion with other carbohydrates. In contrast, evidence related to cardiovascular health is less consistent, with several studies identifying associations between elevated circulating erythritol levels and increased risk of adverse cardiovascular events, though causality remains unclear. Some research suggests elevated levels of erythritol may reflect underlying metabolic dysfunction rather than direct dietary intake. Overall, while erythritol appears safe from a gastrointestinal perspective, its potential long-term cardiovascular implications require further investigation.
Recommended Citation
Kirchner, Kaitlyn B., "Re-Evaluating The Safety Of Erythritol: A Critical Review Of Emerging Evidence" (2026). Honors Thesis. 427.
https://red.library.usd.edu/honors-thesis/427