RHR: Erythritol: The ‘Safe’ Sweetener That’s Anything But

RHR: Erythritol: The ‘Safe’ Sweetener That’s Anything But

From Revolution Health Radio by Chris Kresser

March 31, 2026 · 24 min

About this episode

This episode examines emerging research on erythritol, challenging its safety as a sweetener and discussing its health implications.

Erythritol, a popular sweetener found in countless sugar-free and keto products, has long been considered a safe alternative to sugar. This episode of Revolution Health Radio examines emerging research that challenges that assumption. Chris explains how erythritol promotes blood clotting, impairs blood vessel function, increases oxidative stress, and interferes with the body’s ability to dissolve clots. You’ll learn why erythritol accumulates in the bloodstream, how regulatory loopholes allowed it to be widely adopted without long-term safety data, and why people with diabetes, obesity, and heart disease may be especially vulnerable. Chris also discusses similar concerns with xylitol, explores gut health side effects of sugar alcohols, and outlines safer alternatives like allulose, pure stevia extract, and monk fruit. The post RHR: Erythritol: The ‘Safe’ Sweetener That’s Anything But appeared first on Chris Kresser .

People in this episode

Host: Chris Kresser

Topics covered

  • sweeteners
  • health risks
  • blood clotting
  • oxidative stress
  • sugar alternatives
  • gut health

Keywords

  • erythritol
  • sweetener
  • blood clotting
  • oxidative stress
  • sugar alcohols
  • diabetes
  • heart disease
  • gut health

Mentioned in this episode

Products: Erythritol, xylitol, allulose, pure stevia extract, monk fruit

Places: diabetes, obesity, heart disease

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