The Impact of Sweeteners in Metabolism and Gut Microbiota-Brain Axis

In recent decades, the consumption of sweeteners has increased significantly, not only among adults but also among adolescents and children. Sweeteners are substances—either natural or synthetic—used to impart a sweet taste to foods and beverages, often as substitutes for sugar. They are generally categorized into two types: caloric sweeteners, which provide energy (such as honey and agave syrup), and non-caloric (or low-calorie) sweeteners, which offer little or no energy (such as aspartame, sucralose, and stevia). The origin of sweeteners determines their physical, nutritional, and technological properties; however, little has been studied about the effect of these sweeteners on metabolism. In this regard, consumption of these additives has been linked to metabolic diseases. Recent studies have begun to reveal a concerning link between sweetener consumption and metabolic diseases, thereby shedding light on an urgent need for further investigation. Additionally, the intricate communication network between the gastrointestinal tract and the brain, particularly through the vagus nerve, introduces additional layers of complexity in understanding the role of sweeteners. This axis involves not only the metabolic system but also gut-associated lymphoid tissue and the central nervous system. The association of sweeteners with metabolic and possibly neurological disturbances underscores the necessity for a deeper exploration of these substances and their systemic effects.This Research Topic aims to delve into the multifaceted roles that sweeteners play within metabolic pathways and their potential influence on gut-brain axis communication. The primary objectives include gaining a clearer understanding of how sweeteners may contribute to or alter metabolic functions and unraveling their possible involvement in gut-associated and central nervous system interactions. Specific research questions include: What are the biochemical mechanisms through which sweeteners affect metabolism? Can sweeteners influence the gut microbiota and, by extension, the gut-brain axis? Moreover, we strive to address hypotheses concerning the adverse and secondary effects of sweetener consumption, especially related to metabolic pathologies and neurological disorders.To gather further insights into the broad impacts of sweeteners on human health, we welcome articles addressing, but not limited to, the following themes:• Sweeteners in diet and gut microbiota.• Effects of sweeteners in metabolic pathologies.• Implications of using sweeteners in brain disorders.• Adverse and secondary effects of consuming sweeteners.Nutritional and technological properties of various sweeteners. Topic editors: Elena Franco Robles, María Hernández-Carrión, Osmar Antonio Jaramillo-Morales, César Ozuna Source: https://www.frontiersin.org/research-topics/71585/the-impact-of-sweeteners-in-metabolism-and-gut-microbiota-brain-axis