Creatine Gummies (Sour Green Apple)

Witkowski et al. 2023 (Nature Medicine, PMID 36849732) reported elevated plasma erythritol associated with major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) in two cohorts (n=4,000+), with in-vitro and ex-vivo evidence of enhanced platelet aggregation. Replication is ongoing; FDA and EFSA have not changed their safety positions, but the signal is real and the additive is purely cosmetic. Better-established concern: GI tolerance — single doses above ~50 g cause osmotic diarrhea. Lower threshold for children.

A poorly-absorbed sugar alcohol that can cause bloating, gas, and laxative effects at higher doses (EFSA notes laxative threshold for polyols). Tolerable for most, but cumulative across products.

Worst GI tolerance of the common sugar alcohols — laxative effect at doses above ~10–15 g/serving in many adults; threshold is lower in children. Glycemic index (~52) is significantly higher than erythritol (0) or xylitol (~7) — meaningful blood glucose impact at typical serving sizes. The 'sugar-free' marketing claim masks real metabolic effects when consumed in quantity.

A flavoring formulated to taste of apple

Dried spinach (Spinacia oleracea) leaf powder, a whole-food green.

Common calcium salt used as a buffering agent, filler, or mineral fortification in supplements

Naturally occurring organic acid found in apples, used as a flavor enhancer and acidulant in supplements

Plant polysaccharide from citrus peels or apple pomace used to gel pectin-based gummies