Sugar alcohol naturally found in some fruits. Mostly absorbed in small intestine and excreted unchanged in urine — causes less GI disturbance than other polyols. Near-zero caloric value. GRAS. Recent large cardiovascular study (Witkowski 2023) raised concerns about thrombosis risk at high plasma levels.
How it works (mechanism of action)
Acts on cellular signalling pathways relevant to the documented clinical indications. Contains bioactive compounds with enzyme-modulating, receptor-binding, or antioxidant properties studied in peer-reviewed literature.
Cardiovascular signal: Witkowski et al. 2023 (Nature Medicine) found higher plasma erythritol associated with 3-year cardiovascular event risk — requires confirmation. GI effects at high doses: bloating, diarrhoea (less than other polyols). Generally well tolerated. Avoid as sole/primary sweetener in cardiovascular risk populations pending further research.