Important Facts For Prelims
Erythritol
- 06 Mar 2023
- 3 min read
Why in News?
According to recent research, Erythritol, a popular artificial sweetener, is associated with an increased risk of heart attack and stroke.
What was the Result of the Research?
- Results of the research revealed that erythritol made platelets easier to activate and form a clot.
- Erythritol activates platelets, the blood cells which cause clots when they clump together. Such aggregation of platelets blocks blood flow in blood vessels in different parts of the body.
- When that happens in blood vessels supplying blood to the heart or brain, fatal or non-fatal cardiovascular events occur.
What is Erythritol?
- About: It is a type of sugar alcohol commonly used as a sugar substitute in foods and beverages. Unlike traditional sugars, it has no calories and does not raise blood sugar levels.
- Artificial sweeteners are common replacements for table sugar in low-calorie, low-carbohydrate and “keto” products (high in fat and low in carbohydrates).
- Low Glycemic Index (GI): It is also believed to have a lower GI than other sweeteners, meaning it may not impact insulin levels as strongly.
- GI is a value used to measure how much specific foods increase blood sugar levels.
- Uses: Sugar-free products containing Erythritol are often recommended for people who have obesity, diabetes or metabolic syndrome and are looking for options to help manage their sugar or calorie intake.
- People with these conditions also are at higher risk for adverse cardiovascular events like heart attack and stroke.
UPSC Civil Services Exam, Previous Year Questions (PYQ)
Q. ‘Triclosan’, considered harmful when exposed to high levels for a long time, is most likely present in which of the following? (2021)
(a) Food preservatives
(b) Fruit-ripening substances
(c) Reused plastic containers
(d) Toiletries
Ans: (d)
- Triclosan is an ingredient added to many consumer products intended to reduce or prevent bacterial contamination. It is added to toiletries like antibacterial soaps and body washes, toothpaste, and some cosmetics.
- Therefore, option (d) is the correct answer.
