Trunativ's 'Everyday Sweet' Uses Erythritol
Yes, Trunativ's specific product, 'Everyday Sweet,' uses erythritol as a key ingredient in its formula. It is designed as a 1:1 sugar replacer, combining erythritol with monk fruit extract to achieve a zero-calorie, sugar-like sweetness. For many health-conscious consumers, knowing the exact ingredients in their supplements and sweeteners is crucial for managing dietary needs and health conditions such as diabetes or weight management. The company has been transparent about its inclusion of this sugar alcohol in its sweetener products, distinguishing them from other sugar alternatives on the market.
What is Erythritol?
Erythritol is a type of sugar alcohol, or polyol, that occurs naturally in some fruits and fermented foods. However, the erythritol used in commercial products like Trunativ's is typically produced through the fermentation of glucose from sources like corn or wheat starch. It is valued for its zero-calorie content and its clean, sweet taste that is about 70% as sweet as sugar. Unlike some other sugar alcohols, erythritol is mostly absorbed into the bloodstream before it reaches the colon, which typically results in less digestive discomfort.
Why Trunativ Uses a Monk Fruit and Erythritol Blend
Trunativ and other brands combine different sweeteners to optimize taste and texture. Monk fruit extract, for instance, is naturally very potent and can sometimes have an aftertaste. By blending it with the mild-tasting erythritol, Trunativ achieves a balanced, 1:1 sugar replacement that mimics table sugar without the calories or the strong aftertaste of some other non-nutritive sweeteners. This combination makes it suitable for a wide range of uses, from baking and cooking to sweetening beverages.
Comparing Erythritol to Other Sweeteners
| Feature | Erythritol | Stevia (with fillers) | Allulose | Table Sugar (Sucrose) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Calorie Content | 0.24 kcal/g (effectively zero) | Often zero or very low | 0.4 kcal/g (effectively zero) | 4 kcal/g |
| Glycemic Impact | Zero (does not affect blood sugar) | Zero | Zero | High (causes blood sugar spikes) |
| Sweetness Level | ~70% of table sugar | 200-400x sweeter | ~70% of table sugar | 100% (reference standard) |
| Aftertaste | Clean, sometimes a cooling effect | Can have a bitter licorice aftertaste | Very little aftertaste | None |
| Digestive Issues | Well-tolerated in moderate amounts; large amounts can cause bloating/gas | Possible bloating, gas, dizziness, numbness | Can cause gastrointestinal distress in large amounts | None |
Recent Health Concerns Regarding Erythritol
While Trunativ and other companies have relied on FDA 'Generally Recognized As Safe' (GRAS) status for erythritol for years, recent research has raised some concerns about the potential effects of high-dose erythritol consumption. A study published in Nature Medicine highlighted a potential link between high blood erythritol levels and an increased risk of heart attacks and strokes, particularly in those already at high cardiovascular risk. The study found that consuming high amounts of erythritol can lead to enhanced blood clot formation by increasing platelet sensitivity. It's important to note, however, that the study examined blood levels, which can be influenced by internal production of erythritol, not just dietary intake. Additionally, the quantities tested were often much higher than what most people would consume on a regular basis. For a deeper dive into the scientific literature surrounding erythritol and its effects, the NIH maintains a repository of articles, such as this one discussing potential benefits and risks.
Understanding Your Sweetener Choices
For consumers, especially those with pre-existing health conditions, the key takeaway is moderation and informed choice. Checking product labels for sugar alcohols and other sweeteners is essential. Brands like Trunativ are transparent about their use of erythritol in their specific sweetener products. However, some studies on the overall health effects of erythritol show conflicting results, and its long-term effects still warrant further investigation. For those concerned, whole foods remain the safest source of sweetness, or one can seek out alternatives sweetened with different, thoroughly researched ingredients.
Conclusion
In summary, Trunativ's 'Everyday Sweet' is a product that specifically includes erythritol, combined with monk fruit extract, to offer a zero-calorie, diabetic-friendly sugar alternative. This blend provides a clean, sweet taste without the calories or blood sugar impact of traditional sugar. While erythritol is generally considered safe in moderate amounts, and is even considered beneficial for dental health, some recent research has raised concerns about high-dose consumption, particularly regarding cardiovascular risk. Consumers should always read ingredient labels, consider their personal health status, and consult a healthcare provider if they have concerns about any sugar alcohol, including erythritol.
