Artificial sweeteners have long been marketed as a “healthier” alternative to sugar, especially for those managing diabetes, obesity, or simply aiming to cut calories. But as we explored in a previous article, mounting research suggests these sugar substitutes may come with hidden health risks that cannot be ignored.
Now, new evidence is shining a spotlight on erythritol—a sugar alcohol commonly found in low-calorie snacks, drinks, and specialty foods. While erythritol is often promoted as a safe, natural option, recent studies suggest it may have unexpected and serious effects on our health, particularly when it comes to brain and cardiovascular function. In this article, we’ll unpack the latest research, explore how artificial sweeteners could affect not just your body but also your vision, and share safe, natural alternatives for those seeking a genuinely healthy way to satisfy their sweet tooth.
Sugar Substitute Linked to Brain Cell Damage
A new study suggests that using erythritol as a sugar substitute may have unexpected health risks. This is a common sugar replacement recommended for those individuals who are obese or have diabetes. Erythritol is commonly found in low-calorie snacks and specialty food items.
This study from the University of Colorado Boulder (Journal of Applied Physiology)1 concluded that the intake of erythritol increases the risk of stroke based on its negative effect on brain cells.
Erythritol has been used since 2001 and is derived from fermented corn. One recent study found that men and women with higher circulating levels of erythritol were significantly at higher risk of having a heart attack or stroke within the 3 years of these higher levels. One reason may be that erythritol reduces the levels of nitric oxide in the body, therefore interfering with the body’s ability to relax blood vessels needed for healthy circulation.
Artificial Sweeteners and Vision Problems
There are indications that the consumption of artificial sweeteners may have a negative impact on vision. Some potential concerns include increased light sensitivity, blurred vision, and, in rare cases, more severe issues like blindness. Artificial sweeteners such as aspartame and cyclamates have been explicitly mentioned as potentially having negative vision effects.
A recent study featured in the Clinical and Experimental Ophthalmology suggests that consuming diet soda could raise the likelihood of developing proliferative diabetic retinopathy.2 In a clinical study focused on individuals with diabetes, those who drank more than four cans (1.5 liters) of diet soda weekly were found to have twice the risk of developing proliferative diabetic retinopathy.
Previous research has also connected diet soft drinks with a higher risk of cardiometabolic issues, negative cardiovascular outcomes, and type 2 diabetes. Additionally, a large-scale study has suggested that artificial sweeteners may be linked to a greater chance of strokes, heart attacks, and other cardiovascular problems.3
The study also highlighted three artificial sweeteners that may pose the most significant health concerns. Aspartame (found in NutraSweet and Equal) was associated with an increased risk of stroke. Meanwhile, acesulfame potassium (Sunnett, Sweet One) and sucralose (Splenda) were linked to a higher risk of developing coronary artery disease.
Ironically, consuming artificial sweeteners may actually promote weight gain. Research shows that these sweeteners can stimulate the hypothalamus—the area of the brain responsible for controlling appetite and body weight—potentially leading to increased hunger and higher calorie intake.4 Approximately 40% of Americans regularly use sugar substitutes, primarily to reduce their calorie intake or lower their sugar intake.
Natural Alternatives to Artificial Sweeteners
You have several natural options for sweetening your drinks and food. Consider these healthy alternatives to artificial sweeteners and refined sugar:
Monk fruit is a great option. This natural sweetener is 100 to 250 times sweeter than regular sugar, contains zero calories, and may even offer antioxidant benefits.
Stevia is a natural, zero-calorie sweetener derived from the stevia leaf, which is about 200 times sweeter than regular sugar. Due to its intense sweetness, only a small amount is required—using too much may result in a slightly bitter aftertaste. Research indicates that stevia is a safe, non-caloric sugar substitute for individuals with diabetes, high blood pressure, or obesity. Adults and children can safely consume stevia.5
If you have diabetes, stevia may help regulate your blood sugar levels. One 2010 study found that stevia significantly lowered insulin and glucose levels. It also left participants in the study satisfied and full after eating, despite the lower calorie intake. Possible side effects include nausea, bloating, hormone disruption, and low blood pressure.
My Favorite Healthy, Natural Beverages
Natural Soda: Make a great natural soda with low or no calories. Combine approximately 1/3 glass of no-sugar-added juice, such as sour cranberry, pomegranate, sour cherry, or blackberry juice in a glass. Add 5-6 drops of stevia or to taste. Fill the rest of the glass with sparkling water. Stir and serve.
Lemonade: Prepare your own lemonade using fresh lemons or organic lemon juice extract. Squeeze ½ lemon into a glass. Add approximately 5-6 drops of stevia. Fill the rest of the glass with sparkling water. Add fresh mint if available. Stir and serve.
Supplements to Consider
Advanced Eye & Vision Support Formula (whole food) 60 vcaps – this is our whole food, organic, GMO-free foundation eye formula.
Dr. Grossman’s Meso Plus Retinal Support and Computer Eye Strain Formula with Astaxanthin 90 vcaps
Dr. Grossman’s Circulation and Optic Nerve Support Formula
Dr. Grossman’s Bilberry/Ginkgo Combination 2oz (60ml) – helps strengthen blood vessels and capillaries, and support healthy circulation
Retinal Support (wild-crafted herbal formula) 2 oz – based on classic Chinese Liver tonic. In Chinese medicine, the Liver “opens to the eyes” so is the primary meridian (flow of energy) to support the free flow of circulation and energy throughout the eyes (and body as well).
Dr. Grossman’s Whole Food Organic Superfood Multi-Vitamin 120 Vcaps – our whole food, organic, GMO free formula
H2 Elite Molecular Hydrogen 60 tabs
Cognirev Extra Strength 2 oz Oral Spray
Recommended Books
Natural Eye Care: Your Guide to Healthy Vision and Healing
Natural Parkinson’s Support (ebook): Your Guide to Preventing and Managing Parkinson’s
- University of Colorado Boulder. “Erythritol Impairs Neurovascular Coupling and Increases Stroke Risk in Mice.” Journal of Applied Physiology, vol. 129, no. 3, 2025, pp. 456-468. ↩
- Clin Exp Ophthalmol. 2018;46:767-776 ↩
- https://www.health.harvard.edu/heart-health/sugar-substitutes-new-cardiovascular-concerns ↩
- https://www.nature.com/articles/s42255-025-01227-8 ↩
- Aguero SD, Onate G, Rivera HP. Consumption of non-nutritive sweeteners and nutritional status in 10-16-year-old students. Arch Argent Pediatr. 2014;112:207–14. ↩
