Sugar-free energy and functional drinks have exploded in popularity as people search for low-calorie alternatives to sugary sodas. One of the most common sweeteners in these drinks is erythritol, a sugar alcohol often used in keto and low-carb products. But new research is raising questions about whether erythritol is as harmless as once believed — particularly for brain and heart health.
A 2025 study from the University of Colorado Boulder, published in the Journal of Applied Physiology, found that erythritol may impair the function of brain microvascular endothelial cells, which line blood vessels in the brain. In lab tests, exposing these cells to erythritol at levels similar to a single sweetened beverage caused blood vessels to constrict, reduced the release of natural clot-busting compounds, and increased oxidative stress. These changes may make it easier for harmful blood clots to form, potentially raising the risk of stroke.
This aligns with earlier large-scale human studies involving over 4,000 people, where those with higher blood levels of erythritol were roughly twice as likely to experience a heart attack or stroke in the following years. Another recent clinical trial found that healthy volunteers consuming 30 grams of erythritol had a rapid increase in platelet activity — a key factor in blood clotting — not observed with regular sugar.
Erythritol is FDA-approved, nearly calorie-free, and doesn’t spike blood sugar, which has made it popular among people managing diabetes or looking to cut carbs. However, this new evidence suggests that frequent, high intake of erythritol-sweetened drinks may come with hidden cardiovascular risks, particularly for those with existing heart conditions. Since many energy drinks, functional beverages, and keto snacks rely on erythritol for sweetness, it’s possible to consume large amounts without realizing it.
At Tatsu Tea, we’ve taken a different approach. Instead of sugar alcohols or artificial sweeteners, we use real lychee fruit juice to give our matcha performance drink a lightly sweet, refreshing taste. That means no erythritol, no artificial sugar substitutes. Just natural flavor and clean function.
While more research is needed to fully understand the long-term impact of erythritol on brain and heart health, these findings highlight the importance of reading labels, moderating sugar alcohol intake, and choosing naturally-sweetened alternatives whenever possible.
By staying informed and selecting beverages made with clean, transparent ingredients, you can enjoy better energy and hydration, without worrying about hidden risks to your cardiovascular system.
