Erythritol, a sugar alcohol, has gained popularity as a zero-calorie sweetener in various products in the food and nutraceutical industry. 

It is often preferred because it provides the sweetness of sugar without the calories or blood sugar spikes. 

However, like any food additive, it’s safety and potential side effects warrant careful consideration. 

This blog explores  erythritol’s safety profile and its possible side effects.

What Is Erythritol?

Erythritol is a naturally occurring sugar alcohol found in small amounts in fruits like grapes, melons, and pears. Industrially, it is produced by fermenting glucose, usually derived from corn.

• Chemical Structure: It is a four-carbon sugar alcohol, which is 60-70% as sweet as sucrose (table sugar) with zero calories.

• Absorption and Excretion: It’s unique among sugar alcohols in that about 90% of erythritol is absorbed into the bloodstream and excreted unchanged in the urine. This limits its impact on blood sugar levels.

Safety Profile of Erythritol

Multiple studies have examined the safety of erythritol. 

The FDA has granted it Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) status, and the World Health Organization (WHO) has also deemed it safe for consumption.

• No Impact on Blood Sugar or Insulin: It does not raise blood glucose or insulin levels, making it suitable for people with diabetes

• Tooth-Friendly: Unlike regular sugar, it does not contribute to tooth decay, as oral bacteria cannot metabolize it to form acids.
• Gut Health: Since it is mostly absorbed before reaching the colon, it causes less gastrointestinal discomfort than other sugar alcohols, such as sorbitol or xylitol, which are fermented by gut bacteria.

Potential Side Effects

Although erythritol is generally well-tolerated, it can cause side effects in certain individuals, especially when consumed in large amounts.

• Digestive Issues: While it is absorbed before it reaches the large intestine, the remaining 10% that isn’t absorbed can cause mild digestive discomfort. This includes symptoms like bloating, gas, or mild diarrhoea, especially when consumed in excess (over 50 grams). This side effect is extremely rare.
• Individual Sensitivity: Some people may be more sensitive to sugar alcohols and could experience digestive issues even at lower doses. It’s advisable for individuals with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or other gastrointestinal sensitivities to introduce it slowly into their diet.

Long-Term Safety and Emerging Concerns

Although erythritol has been widely studied, long-term research is still ongoing to assess any potential health risks associated with prolonged, high-intake consumption.

• Impact on Metabolism: Current studies show that it doesn’t affect metabolism negatively, but as it is often consumed in processed foods, the overall diet’s healthfulness should be considered.
• Emerging Research: Some studies suggest it may function as an antioxidant, but more research is needed to fully understand its long-term health effects.

Conclusion

Erythritol is a safe and effective sugar substitute for most people, offering sweetness without the calories or negative effects on blood sugar. 

While it can, very rarely, cause mild digestive issues if consumed in large amounts, these side effects are less common compared to other sugar alcohols. 

As with any additive, moderation is key, and individuals with sensitivities should monitor their tolerance levels. 

The overall safety profile of erythritol makes it a viable option for those seeking a low-calorie sweetener.