Study Links High Blood Xylitol Levels to Increased Heart Attack and Stroke Risk

New research presented at the European Society of Cardiology Congress 2026 found an association between high blood levels of xylitol and a greater risk of major cardiovascular events, including heart attacks, strokes and cardiovascular death. The observational analysis tracked 17,710 people in Canadian and European cohorts. Participants with the highest xylitol levels had a 57% higher cardiovascular risk over six years in the Canadian cohort and an 18% higher risk over 30 years in the European cohort. Xylitol is a low-calorie sugar alcohol commonly used in sugar-free gum, mints, foods and oral-care products. Researchers stress that the findings show an association, not proof that xylitol causes heart disease. Further studies are needed to confirm the risk and explain the possible role of increased platelet activity and blood clotting.

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