Aim To determine whether a dose-dependent effect in the stimulation of gut hormone release (plasma cholecystokinin [CCK], active glucagon-like peptide-1 [aGLP-1] and peptide tyrosine tyrosine [PYY]) is found for the natural sweetener erythritol.

Materials and Methods Twelve healthy, lean volunteers received solutions with 10, 25 or 50 g erythritol, or tap water enriched with C-13-sodium acetate on four study days via a nasogastric tube in this randomized (active treatments), placebo-controlled, double-blind, cross-over trial. Blood samples and breath samples (C-13-sodium acetate method for measurement of gastric emptying [GE]) were taken at regular intervals, and sensations of appetite and gastrointestinal symptoms were rated.

Results We found (a) a dose-dependent stimulation of CCK, aGLP-1 and PYY, and slowing of GE, (b) no effect on blood glucose, insulin, motilin, glucagon or glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide, (c) no effect on blood lipids and uric acid, and (d) no abdominal pain, nausea or vomiting.

Conclusions Solutions with 10 and 50 g of erythritol stimulated gut hormone release. Emptying of erythritol-containing solutions from the stomach was slower compared with placebo. There was no effect on plasma glucose, insulin, glucagon, blood lipids or uric acid. All doses were well tolerated.