Erythritol: What is it, Benefits and Properties

Erythritol

According to the WHO, Erythritol (sugar) consumption is one of the leading causes of obesity, affecting millions worldwide. Therefore, among the measures to consider to reduce this and other conditions, it has been suggest to limit the consumption of sugar, which can replace by erythritol.

What is Erythritol?

erythritol

erythritol

Density : 1450 kg/m³; 1.45g/cm³

Molecular Formula : C4H10O4

Decomposition point: 331 K (58 °C)

Erythritol is an element in fruits that gives them a sweet touch. It is use in North America and many other portions of the world to sweeten hot or cold beverages or prepare desserts. Simply put, it serves as a substitute for sugar.

In 1948, this element was discover by a Scottish-born chemist known as John Stenhouse. However, the Food and Drug Administration highlights that it only has 5% of the calories present in sugar.

Properties of Erythritol

It has antioxidant properties, thanks to the fact that it acts directly on hydroxyl radicals, elements that considerably affect the structure of cells.

It also has oral protective properties, attribute to its low molecular weight, which prevents it from being processed by bacteria. Instead, it stays in the bacterial plaque, thus allowing it to be easily eliminate.

In addition, it has antifungal properties, which prevent the appearance of candida and other conditions cause by fungi. This is also because, unlike sugar, fungi cannot absorb erythritol, which prevents the growth of the species that cause these diseases.

Erythritol Benefits

The consumption of erythritol is one of the best ways to reduce sugar intake, thereby improving the body’s functioning. Unique of its advantages is that it is very safe, as high light by the Analysis of the available evidence for consuming non-caloric sweeteners. Expert Paper.

 Let’s take a look at some of its benefits:

Improves The Nervous System

The study Non-Caloric Sweeteners and the Nervous System: In Search of the Evidence provides comprehensive information on the benefits of these elements, such as erythritol, for the body’s functioning.

For example, it points out that in face of migraines in cognitive or neurodevelopment disorders, erythritol considerably improves the condition of the nervous system, helping to reduce the negative impact caused by these conditions.

Helps Reduce the Symptoms of Diabetes

The amount of sugar in the blood is one of the essential points to consider for people with diabetes. For that reason, the consumption of erythritol is suggest. This offers all its capacity to sweeten but without increasing glucose levels. Therefore, it is recommend that even people who do not have diabetes consume it to prevent this disease.

Contributes to Oral Health

Sugar is consider one of the main enemies of dental health. This is mainly because it can be process by the bacteria present in the oral mucosa, leading to an increase in the presence of caries and other oral diseases. But, erythritol helps prevent these conditions because its composition prevents bacteria from using it.

In addition, it has confirm that the consumption of erythritol prevents the harmful effect that the bacteria have carry out, so whatever the person’s condition, it is always a good time to start using it.

Prevents Fungal Diseases

One of erythritol’s most significant benefits is that it works perfectly as an antifungal. As a result, no fungus can use as a food source, thus preventing its harmful effects throughout the body. One of them is the candidiasis disease, which can appear in different places, the most common being the intimate area.

It Helps you lose Weight

The number of calories that erythritol has is meager, so those who want to lose weight will no longer have to undergo a strict regimen of zero sweets. Instead, they should only substitute sugar for this element.

Another advantage of this element is that it is natural, so it does not contain any animal origin component; therefore, it is no need to worry about whether its consumption could increase body fat.

Side Effects and Contraindications of Erythritol

The adverse effects of erythritol consumption are relate to its consumption in excess. According to research, if 50 grams of this element are ingest daily, stomach upsets, such as dizziness and vomiting, can occur. In addition, in some cases, you may experience allergic reactions, such as skin conditions.

Other symptoms may also occur, associated with each person’s health status. For example, if the person suffers from microbiota problems, there will likely be inflammation and abdominal pain.

Using erythritol may cause weight gain. This is because it doesn’t offer the same satiating effect as sugar due to its limited calorie count. Therefore, they are likely to eat more food than they should each day.

Similarly, it can have a laxative effect, but again, we point out that this would only happen if the intake is excessive. Therefore, there is only one group of people who are prohibit from consuming erythritol:

Under three years old. Because their digestive system is developing, it can harm little ones.

The use of erythritol is an excellent alternative for everyone. In this way, it is possible to improve and maintain good health.