The Sweetener in Diet Drinks That May Harm Your Blood Vessels.

A 2025 EMJ Neurology report highlights groundbreaking lab findings that the popular artificial sweetener erythritol—often found in sugar-free drinks—can impair brain blood vessel health. In vitro studies show that erythritol triggers oxidative stress, disrupts nitric oxide production, and interferes with clot-busting activity in brain endothelial cells—key mechanisms that maintain healthy blood flow to the brain.

In simpler terms, this means erythritol could reduce blood flow to the brain and increase stroke risk. These harmful effects are similar to those shown in other cell-based research and may also affect heart health, given erythritol’s influence on blood vessels.

Think twice before reaching for that diet soda or sugar-free snack. Choose holistic options like minimal ultra-processed foods, plain teas, filtered water, or honey/maple syrup, especially if cardiovascular or neurological health is a priority.