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Van Hul M, Cani PD, Petifils C, De Vos WM, Tilg H, El Omar EM. What defines a healthy gut microbiome? Gut 2024:gutjnl-2024-333378. [PMID: 39322314 DOI: 10.1136/gutjnl-2024-333378] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2024] [Accepted: 08/16/2024] [Indexed: 09/27/2024]
Abstract
The understanding that changes in microbiome composition can influence chronic human diseases and the efficiency of therapies has driven efforts to develop microbiota-centred therapies such as first and next generation probiotics, prebiotics and postbiotics, microbiota editing and faecal microbiota transplantation. Central to microbiome research is understanding how disease impacts microbiome composition and vice versa, yet there is a problematic issue with the term 'dysbiosis', which broadly links microbial imbalances to various chronic illnesses without precision or definition. Another significant issue in microbiome discussions is defining 'healthy individuals' to ascertain what characterises a healthy microbiome. This involves questioning who represents the healthiest segment of our population-whether it is those free from illnesses, athletes at peak performance, individuals living healthily through regular exercise and good nutrition or even elderly adults or centenarians who have been tested by time and achieved remarkable healthy longevity.This review advocates for delineating 'what defines a healthy microbiome?' by considering a broader range of factors related to human health and environmental influences on the microbiota. A healthy microbiome is undoubtedly linked to gut health. Nevertheless, it is very difficult to pinpoint a universally accepted definition of 'gut health' due to the complexities of measuring gut functionality besides the microbiota composition. We must take into account individual variabilities, the influence of diet, lifestyle, host and environmental factors. Moreover, the challenge in distinguishing causation from correlation between gut microbiome and overall health is presented.The review also highlights the resource-heavy nature of comprehensive gut health assessments, which hinders their practicality and broad application. Finally, we call for continued research and a nuanced approach to better understand the intricate and evolving concept of gut health, emphasising the need for more precise and inclusive definitions and methodologies in studying the microbiome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthias Van Hul
- Louvain Drug Research Institute (LDRI), Metabolism and Nutrition research group (MNUT), UCLouvain, Université catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
- Walloon Excellence in Life Sciences and BIOtechnology (WELBIO) department, WEL Research Institute, Wavre, Belgium
| | - Patrice D Cani
- Louvain Drug Research Institute (LDRI), Metabolism and Nutrition research group (MNUT), UCLouvain, Université catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
- Walloon Excellence in Life Sciences and BIOtechnology (WELBIO) department, WEL Research Institute, Wavre, Belgium
- Institute of Experimental and Clinical Research (IREC), UCLouvain, Université catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Camille Petifils
- Louvain Drug Research Institute (LDRI), Metabolism and Nutrition research group (MNUT), UCLouvain, Université catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
- Walloon Excellence in Life Sciences and BIOtechnology (WELBIO) department, WEL Research Institute, Wavre, Belgium
| | - Willem M De Vos
- Human Microbiome Research Program, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
- Laboratory of Microbiology, Wageningen University, Wageningen, The Netherlands
| | - Herbert Tilg
- Department of Internal Medicine I, Gastroenterology, Hepatology, Endocrinology & Metabolism, Medizinische Universitat Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Emad M El Omar
- Microbiome Research Centre, St George and Sutherland Clinical Campuses, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
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Kossiva L, Kakleas K, Christodouli F, Soldatou A, Karanasios S, Karavanaki K. Chronic Use of Artificial Sweeteners: Pros and Cons. Nutrients 2024; 16:3162. [PMID: 39339762 PMCID: PMC11435027 DOI: 10.3390/nu16183162] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2024] [Revised: 09/09/2024] [Accepted: 09/11/2024] [Indexed: 09/30/2024] Open
Abstract
Over the past few decades, the scientific community has been highly concerned about the obesity epidemic. Artificial sweeteners are compounds that mimic the sweet taste of sugar but have no calories or carbohydrates; hence, they are very popular among patients suffering from diabetes or obesity, aiming to achieve glycemic and/or weight control. There are four different types of sweeteners: artificial, natural, rare sugars, and polyols. Artificial and natural sweeteners are characterized as non-nutritional sweeteners (NNSs) since they do not contain calories. The extended use of sweeteners has been reported to have a favorable impact on body weight and glycemic control in patients with type 2 diabetes (T2DM) and on tooth decay prevention. However, there is concern regarding their side effects. Several studies have associated artificial sweeteners' consumption with the development of insulin resistance, nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), gastrointestinal symptoms, and certain types of cancer. The present review focuses on the description of different types of sweeteners and the benefits and possible deleterious effects of the chronic consumption of NNSs on children's health. Additionally, possible underlying mechanisms of the unfavorable effects of NNSs on human health are described.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lydia Kossiva
- Diabetes and Metabolism Clinic, 2nd Department of Pediatrics, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, "P&A Kyriakou" Children's Hospital, 11527 Athens, Greece
| | - Kostas Kakleas
- 1st Department of Pediatrics, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, "Agia Sophia" Children's Hospital, 11527 Athens, Greece
| | - Foteini Christodouli
- Diabetes and Metabolism Clinic, 2nd Department of Pediatrics, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, "P&A Kyriakou" Children's Hospital, 11527 Athens, Greece
| | - Alexandra Soldatou
- Diabetes and Metabolism Clinic, 2nd Department of Pediatrics, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, "P&A Kyriakou" Children's Hospital, 11527 Athens, Greece
| | - Spyridon Karanasios
- Diabetes and Metabolism Clinic, 2nd Department of Pediatrics, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, "P&A Kyriakou" Children's Hospital, 11527 Athens, Greece
| | - Kyriaki Karavanaki
- Diabetes and Metabolism Clinic, 2nd Department of Pediatrics, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, "P&A Kyriakou" Children's Hospital, 11527 Athens, Greece
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Muñoz-Labrador A, Doyagüez EG, Azcarate S, Julio-Gonzalez C, Barile D, Moreno FJ, Hernandez-Hernandez O. Design Optimization of a Novel Catalytic Approach for Transglucosylated Isomaltooligosaccharides into Dietary Polyols Structures by Leuconostoc mesenteroides Dextransucrase. JOURNAL OF AGRICULTURAL AND FOOD CHEMISTRY 2024. [PMID: 39292642 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jafc.4c04222] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/20/2024]
Abstract
Polyols, or sugar alcohols, are widely used in the industry as sweeteners and food formulation ingredients, aiming to combat the incidence of diet-related Non-Communicable Diseases. Given the attractive use of Generally Regarded As Safe (GRAS) enzymes in both academia and industry, this study reports on an optimized process to achieve polyols transglucosylation using a dextransucrase enzyme derived from Leuconostoc mesenteroides. These enzyme modifications could lead to the creation of a new generation of glucosylated polyols with isomalto-oligosaccharides (IMOS) structures, potentially offering added functionalities such as prebiotic effects. These reactions were guided by a design of experiment framework, aimed at maximizing the yields of potential new sweeteners. Under the optimized conditions, dextransucrase first cleared the glycosidic bond of sucrose, releasing fructose with the formation of an enzyme-glucosyl covalent intermediate complex. Then, the acceptor substrate (i.e., polyols) is bound to the enzyme-glucosyl intermediate, resulting in the transfer of glucosyl unit to the tested polyols. Structural insights into the reaction products were obtained through nuclear maneic resonance (NMR) and matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight (MALDI-TOF) analyses, which revealed the presence of linear α(1 → 6) glycosidic linkages attached to the polyols, yielding oligosaccharide structures containing from 4 to 10 glucose residues. These new polyols-based oligosaccharides hold promise as innovative prebiotic sweeteners, potentially offering valuable health benefits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Muñoz-Labrador
- Institute of Food Science Research, CIAL (CSIC-UAM), Nicolás Cabrera 9, 28049 Madrid, Spain
| | - Elisa G Doyagüez
- Centro de Química Orgánica "Lora Tamayo" (CSIC), Juan de la Cierva 3, 28006 Madrid, Spain
| | - Silvana Azcarate
- Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Godoy Cruz 2290 CABA (C1425FQB), 1033 Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | | | - Daniela Barile
- Department of Food Science and Technology, University of California Davis, Davis, California 95616, United States
| | - F Javier Moreno
- Institute of Food Science Research, CIAL (CSIC-UAM), Nicolás Cabrera 9, 28049 Madrid, Spain
| | - Oswaldo Hernandez-Hernandez
- Institute of Food Science Research, CIAL (CSIC-UAM), Nicolás Cabrera 9, 28049 Madrid, Spain
- Department of Food Science and Technology, University of California Davis, Davis, California 95616, United States
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4
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Mancuso G, Violi F, Nocella C. Food contamination and cardiovascular disease: a narrative review. Intern Emerg Med 2024; 19:1693-1703. [PMID: 38743129 PMCID: PMC11405437 DOI: 10.1007/s11739-024-03610-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2023] [Accepted: 04/09/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024]
Abstract
Cardiovascular disease is a significant cause of morbidity and mortality among non-communicable diseases worldwide. Evidence shows that a healthy dietary pattern positively influences many risk factors of cardiometabolic health, stroke, and heart disease, supported by the effectiveness of healthy diet and lifestyles for the prevention of CVD. High quality and safety of foods are prerequisites to ensuring food security and beneficial effects. Contaminants can be present in foods mainly because of contamination from environmental sources (water, air, or soil pollution), or artificially introduced by the human. Moreover, the cross-contamination or formation during food processing, food packaging, presence or contamination by natural toxins, or use of unapproved food additives and adulterants. Numerous studies reported the association between food contaminants and cardiovascular risk by demonstrating that (1) the cross-contamination or artificial sweeteners, additives, and adulterants in food processing can be the cause of the risk for major adverse cardiovascular events and (2) environmental factors, such as heavy metals and chemical products can be also significant contributors to food contamination with a negative impact on cardiovascular systems. Furthermore, oxidative stress can be a common mechanism that mediates food contamination-associated CVDs as substantiated by studies showing impaired oxidative stress biomarkers after exposure to food contaminants.This narrative review summarizes the data suggesting how food contaminants may elicit artery injury and proposing oxidative stress as a mediator of cardiovascular damage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gerardo Mancuso
- Internal Medicine Unit, Department of Medicine and Medical Specialties, Lamezia Terme Hospital, 88046, Lamezia Terme, Italy
| | - Francesco Violi
- Department of Clinical Internal, Anesthesiology and Cardiovascular Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - Cristina Nocella
- Department of Clinical Internal, Anesthesiology and Cardiovascular Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161, Rome, Italy.
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Tian L, Shi J, Li W, Zhang Y, Gao X. Hollow Microfiber Assembly-Based Endocrine Pancreas-on-a-Chip for Sugar Substitute Evaluation. Adv Healthc Mater 2024; 13:e2302104. [PMID: 37751946 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.202302104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2023] [Revised: 09/22/2023] [Indexed: 10/03/2023]
Abstract
With the increasing demand for low-sugar, low-calorie healthy diets, artificial sweeteners are widely used as substitutes for sugar in the food industry. Therefore, developing models that can better predict the effects of sugar substitutes on the human body is necessary. Here, a new type of endocrine pancreas-on-a-chip is developed based on a microfiber assembly and its stimulation of pancreatic secretion by glucose or sugar substitutes is evaluated. This new endocrine pancreas-on-a-chip is assembled using two components: (1) a cell-loaded hollow methacrylate gelatin (GelMA)/calcium alginate (CaA) composite microfiber prepared by microfluidic spinning to achieve vascular simulation and material transport, and (2) a 3D pancreatic islet culture layer, which also serves as a fiber assembly microchip. Using this established organ chip, the effects of five sweeteners (glucose, erythritol, xylitol, sodium cyclamate, and sucralose) were investigated on pancreatic islet cell viability and insulin and glucagon secretion. The constructed endocrine pancreas-on-a-chip has potential for the safety evaluation of sugar-substituted food additives, which can expand the application of organ chips in the field of food safety and provide a new platform for evaluating various food additives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lingling Tian
- Materials Genome Institute, Shanghai University, Shanghai, 200444, China
| | - Jingyan Shi
- Materials Genome Institute, Shanghai University, Shanghai, 200444, China
| | - Wei Li
- Materials Genome Institute, Shanghai University, Shanghai, 200444, China
| | - Yuan Zhang
- Materials Genome Institute, Shanghai University, Shanghai, 200444, China
| | - Xinghua Gao
- Materials Genome Institute, Shanghai University, Shanghai, 200444, China
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Cyphert EL, Liu C, Morales AL, Nixon JC, Blackford E, Garcia M, Cevallos N, Turnbaugh PJ, Brito IL, Booth SL, Hernandez CJ. Effects of high dose aspartame-based sweetener on the gut microbiota and bone strength in young and aged mice. JBMR Plus 2024; 8:ziae082. [PMID: 39011468 PMCID: PMC11247189 DOI: 10.1093/jbmrpl/ziae082] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2024] [Revised: 05/21/2024] [Accepted: 06/13/2024] [Indexed: 07/17/2024] Open
Abstract
In a recent study examining the effects of manipulating the gut microbiome on bone, a control group of mice in which the microbiome was altered using a non-caloric, aspartame-based sweetener resulted in whole bone strength being 40% greater than expected from geometry alone, implicating enhanced bone tissue strength. However, the study was not designed to detect changes in bone in this control group and was limited to young male mice. Here we report a replication study examining how changes in the gut microbiome caused by aspartame-based sweetener influence bone. Male and female C57Bl/6 J mice were untreated or treated with a high dose of sweetener (10 g/L) in their drinking water from either 1 to 4 mo of age (young cohort; n = 80) or 1 to 22 mo of age (aged cohort; n = 52). Sweetener did not replicate the modifications to the gut microbiome observed in the initial study and did not result in an increase in bone tissue strength in either sex at either age. Aged male mice dosed with sweetener had larger bones (+17% femur section modulus, p<.001) and greater whole bone strength (+22%, p=.006) but the increased whole bone strength was explained by the associated increase in body mass (+9%, p<.001). No differences in body mass, whole bone strength, or femoral geometry were associated with sweetener dosing in males from the young cohort or females at either age. As we were unable to replicate the gut microbiota observed in the initial experiment, it remains unclear if changes in the gut microbiome can enhance bone tissue strength. Although prior work studying gut microbiome-induced changes in bone with oral antibiotics has been highly repeatable, the current study highlights the variability of nutritional manipulations of the gut microbiota in mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erika L Cyphert
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of California San Francisco, 513 Parnassus Avenue, San Francisco, CA 94143, United States
- Sibley School of Mechanical & Aerospace Engineering, Cornell University, 124 Hoy Road, Ithaca, NY 14853, United States
| | - Chongshan Liu
- Sibley School of Mechanical & Aerospace Engineering, Cornell University, 124 Hoy Road, Ithaca, NY 14853, United States
| | - Angie L Morales
- Sibley School of Mechanical & Aerospace Engineering, Cornell University, 124 Hoy Road, Ithaca, NY 14853, United States
| | - Jacob C Nixon
- Sibley School of Mechanical & Aerospace Engineering, Cornell University, 124 Hoy Road, Ithaca, NY 14853, United States
| | - Emily Blackford
- Sibley School of Mechanical & Aerospace Engineering, Cornell University, 124 Hoy Road, Ithaca, NY 14853, United States
| | - Matthew Garcia
- Sibley School of Mechanical & Aerospace Engineering, Cornell University, 124 Hoy Road, Ithaca, NY 14853, United States
| | - Nicolas Cevallos
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of California San Francisco, 513 Parnassus Avenue, San Francisco, CA 94143, United States
| | - Peter J Turnbaugh
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of California San Francisco, 513 Parnassus Avenue, San Francisco, CA 94143, United States
- Chan Zuckerberg Biohub, San Francisco, CA 94143, United States
| | - Ilana L Brito
- Meinig School of Biomedical Engineering, Cornell University, 101 Weill Hall, Ithaca, NY 14853, United States
| | - Sarah L Booth
- Jean Mayer USDA Human Nutrition Research Center on Aging, Tufts University, 711 Washington Street, Boston, MA 02111, United States
| | - Christopher J Hernandez
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of California San Francisco, 513 Parnassus Avenue, San Francisco, CA 94143, United States
- Chan Zuckerberg Biohub, San Francisco, CA 94143, United States
- Department of Bioengineering and Therapeutic Sciences, University of California San Francisco, 513 Parnassus Avenue, San Francisco, CA 94143, United States
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Yang Y, Liu Y, Xu M, Cai J, Li Q, Wan Z, Yang X. Hierarchical Self-Aggregation of Multifunctional Steviol Glycosides in Aqueous Solutions. JOURNAL OF AGRICULTURAL AND FOOD CHEMISTRY 2024; 72:16438-16448. [PMID: 38981019 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jafc.4c02386] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/11/2024]
Abstract
Steviol glycosides (SGs) are a natural sweetener widely used in the food and beverage industry, but the low solubility and stability of SG aqueous solutions greatly limit their application performance, especially in liquid formulations. In this work, we explore the solubility behavior of rebaudioside A (Reb A) in water, a major component of SGs, with the aim of clarifying the underlying mechanisms of the solubility and stability constraints of SGs, as well as the impact on their multifunctional properties. We demonstrate for the first time that Reb A exhibits hierarchical self-assembly in solutions, forming spherical micelles first when the concentration exceeds its critical micelle concentration (5.071 mg/mL), which then further assemble into large rod-like aggregates. The formation of such large Reb A aggregates is mainly dominated by hydrogen bonding and short-range Coulomb interaction energy, thus leading to the low solubility and precipitation of Reb A solutions. Surprisingly, aggregated Reb A structures display significantly improved organoleptic properties, revealing that self-aggregation can be developed as a simple, efficient, and green strategy for improving the taste profile of SGs. Additionally, the self-aggregation of Reb A at high concentrations impairs active encapsulation and also affects its interfacial and emulsifying properties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yunyi Yang
- Laboratory of Food Proteins and Colloids, School of Food Science and Engineering, Guangdong Province Key Laboratory for Green Processing of Natural Products and Product Safety, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou 510640, China
| | - Yang Liu
- College of Polymer Science and Engineering, State Key Laboratory of Polymer Materials Engineering, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610065, China
| | - Mengyue Xu
- Laboratory of Food Proteins and Colloids, School of Food Science and Engineering, Guangdong Province Key Laboratory for Green Processing of Natural Products and Product Safety, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou 510640, China
- Laboratory of Physics and Physical Chemistry of Foods, Wageningen University, Bornse Weilanden 9, 6708WG Wageningen, The Netherlands
| | - Jiyang Cai
- Laboratory of Food Proteins and Colloids, School of Food Science and Engineering, Guangdong Province Key Laboratory for Green Processing of Natural Products and Product Safety, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou 510640, China
| | - Qing Li
- Laboratory of Food Proteins and Colloids, School of Food Science and Engineering, Guangdong Province Key Laboratory for Green Processing of Natural Products and Product Safety, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou 510640, China
| | - Zhili Wan
- Laboratory of Food Proteins and Colloids, School of Food Science and Engineering, Guangdong Province Key Laboratory for Green Processing of Natural Products and Product Safety, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou 510640, China
- Overseas Expertise Introduction Center for Discipline Innovation of Food Nutrition and Human Health (111 Center), Guangzhou 510640, China
| | - Xiaoquan Yang
- Laboratory of Food Proteins and Colloids, School of Food Science and Engineering, Guangdong Province Key Laboratory for Green Processing of Natural Products and Product Safety, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou 510640, China
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Jurcevic Zidar B, Luetic S, Jurcic K, Knezovic Z, Sutlovic D. Intake of Artificial Sweeteners through Soft Drinks in the Preschool- and School-Aged Population. Nutrients 2024; 16:2278. [PMID: 39064721 PMCID: PMC11279787 DOI: 10.3390/nu16142278] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2024] [Revised: 07/13/2024] [Accepted: 07/13/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024] Open
Abstract
One of the main public health issues that has recently been observed in a greater number of children is being overweight. The cause certainly lies in the decreasing physical activity of children, but mostly in their eating habits. Soft drinks are recognized as the most significant contributor to body overweight due to high sugar content; thus, as a result of numerous campaigns, part of the sugar is replaced by artificial sweeteners (ASs). Despite their advantage due to their low caloric value, WHO recommends that they should not be used to achieve weight control or as prevention for reducing the risk of non-communicable diseases, as there is no evidence of their effectiveness. Apart from beverages, artificial sweetener combinations are also added to a variety of "low fat" and "high protein" food products, which are highly favored especially among the young population. Therefore, it is necessary to take care of the cumulative intake. The conducted study included a survey of 323 parents of children aged 1-14 years, as well as an analysis of the AS content in the products most often consumed by the respondents. The results of the survey show that a large part of children (40%) aged 3-14 often consume soft drinks. Different products (soft drinks, juices/nectars, syrups) were sampled based on the respondents' responses, and an analysis showed that 54% of them contained one or more ASs. In addition, the survey indicated parents' lack of information about the presence of AS in products, as 51% of parents declared that they do not read the declarations of the products they buy. It is necessary to persist in consumer education and changes in dietary preferences and habits, especially among children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Branka Jurcevic Zidar
- Teaching Institute for Public Health, Split-Dalmatia County, 21000 Split, Croatia; (B.J.Z.); (S.L.); (K.J.)
| | - Sanja Luetic
- Teaching Institute for Public Health, Split-Dalmatia County, 21000 Split, Croatia; (B.J.Z.); (S.L.); (K.J.)
- Department of Health Studies, University of Split, 21000 Split, Croatia;
| | - Katarina Jurcic
- Teaching Institute for Public Health, Split-Dalmatia County, 21000 Split, Croatia; (B.J.Z.); (S.L.); (K.J.)
| | - Zlatka Knezovic
- Teaching Institute for Public Health, Split-Dalmatia County, 21000 Split, Croatia; (B.J.Z.); (S.L.); (K.J.)
- Department of Health Studies, University of Split, 21000 Split, Croatia;
| | - Davorka Sutlovic
- Department of Health Studies, University of Split, 21000 Split, Croatia;
- Department of Toxicology and Pharmacogenetics, School of Medicine, University of Split, 21000 Split, Croatia
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Sandys O, Stokkers PCF, Te Velde AA. DAMP-ing IBD: Extinguish the Fire and Prevent Smoldering. Dig Dis Sci 2024:10.1007/s10620-024-08523-5. [PMID: 38963463 DOI: 10.1007/s10620-024-08523-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2024] [Accepted: 06/04/2024] [Indexed: 07/05/2024]
Abstract
In inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD), the most promising therapies targeting cytokines or immune cell trafficking demonstrate around 40% efficacy. As IBD is a multifactorial inflammation of the intestinal tract, a single-target approach is unlikely to solve this problem, necessitating an alternative strategy that addresses its variability. One approach often overlooked by the pharmaceutically driven therapeutic options is to address the impact of environmental factors. This is somewhat surprising considering that IBD is increasingly viewed as a condition heavily influenced by such factors, including diet, stress, and environmental pollution-often referred to as the "Western lifestyle". In IBD, intestinal responses result from a complex interplay among the genetic background of the patient, molecules, cells, and the local inflammatory microenvironment where danger- and microbe-associated molecular patterns (D/MAMPs) provide an adjuvant-rich environment. Through activating DAMP receptors, this array of pro-inflammatory factors can stimulate, for example, the NLRP3 inflammasome-a major amplifier of the inflammatory response in IBD, and various immune cells via non-specific bystander activation of myeloid cells (e.g., macrophages) and lymphocytes (e.g., tissue-resident memory T cells). Current single-target biological treatment approaches can dampen the immune response, but without reducing exposure to environmental factors of IBD, e.g., by changing diet (reducing ultra-processed foods), the adjuvant-rich landscape is never resolved and continues to drive intestinal mucosal dysregulation. Thus, such treatment approaches are not enough to put out the inflammatory fire. The resultant smoldering, low-grade inflammation diminishes physiological resilience of the intestinal (micro)environment, perpetuating the state of chronic disease. Therefore, our hypothesis posits that successful interventions for IBD must address the complexity of the disease by simultaneously targeting all modifiable aspects: innate immunity cytokines and microbiota, adaptive immunity cells and cytokines, and factors that relate to the (micro)environment. Thus the disease can be comprehensively treated across the nano-, meso-, and microscales, rather than with a focus on single targets. A broader perspective on IBD treatment that also includes options to adapt the DAMPing (micro)environment is warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oliver Sandys
- Tytgat Institute for Liver and Intestinal Research, AmsterdamUMC, AGEM, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Pieter C F Stokkers
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, OLVG West, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Anje A Te Velde
- Tytgat Institute for Liver and Intestinal Research, AmsterdamUMC, AGEM, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
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Singh S A, Singh S, Begum RF, Vijayan S, Vellapandian C. Unveiling the profound influence of sucralose on metabolism and its role in shaping obesity trends. Front Nutr 2024; 11:1387646. [PMID: 39015535 PMCID: PMC11250074 DOI: 10.3389/fnut.2024.1387646] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2024] [Accepted: 06/17/2024] [Indexed: 07/18/2024] Open
Abstract
Artificial sweeteners, prominently exemplified by sucralose, have become pervasive in contemporary diets, prompting intriguing questions about their impact on metabolism and their potential role in the unfolding trends of obesity. Covering topics from its discovery to analytical methods for detection and determination in food samples, the manuscript scrutinizes the metabolic effects of sucralose. Notably, the association between sucralose intake and obesity is examined, challenging the conventional belief of its role in weight management. The document comprehensively examines in vivo studies, revealing sucralose's implications on insulin resistance, gut microbiota, and metabolic syndrome, providing a nuanced comprehension of its impact on human health. Additionally, it explores sucralose's effects on glucose and lipid metabolism, blood pressure, and cardiovascular health, underscoring its possible involvement in malignancy development. The review concludes with a call for increased public awareness, education, and updated dietary guidelines to help individuals make informed choices about sweetener consumption. The future perspectives section highlights the need for longitudinal studies, exploring alternative sweeteners, and refining acceptable daily intake limits to ensure public health recommendations align with evolving regulatory guidelines. Overall, the manuscript provides a comprehensive overview of sucralose's multifaceted impact on health, urging further research and a balanced perspective on sweetener consumption.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ankul Singh S
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Dr.M.G.R. Educational and Research Institute, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Srishti Singh
- Department of Pharmacology, SRM College of Pharmacy, SRM Institute of Science and Technology, Chengalpattu, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Rukaiah Fatma Begum
- Department of Pharmacology, SRM College of Pharmacy, SRM Institute of Science and Technology, Chengalpattu, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Sukanya Vijayan
- Department of Pharmacognosy, SRM College of Pharmacy, SRM Institute of Science and Technology, Chengalpattu, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Chitra Vellapandian
- Department of Pharmacology, SRM College of Pharmacy, SRM Institute of Science and Technology, Chengalpattu, Tamil Nadu, India
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11
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Lee CY, So YS, Yoo SH, Lee BH, Seo DH. Impact of artificial sweeteners and rare sugars on the gut microbiome. Food Sci Biotechnol 2024; 33:2047-2064. [PMID: 39130663 PMCID: PMC11315849 DOI: 10.1007/s10068-024-01597-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2024] [Revised: 04/03/2024] [Accepted: 04/30/2024] [Indexed: 08/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Alternative sugars are often used as sugar substitutes because of their low calories and glycemic index. Recently, consumption of these sweeteners in diet foods and beverages has increased dramatically, raising concerns about their health effects. This review examines the types and characteristics of artificial sweeteners and rare sugars and analyzes their impact on the gut microbiome. In the section on artificial sweeteners, we have described the chemical structures of different sweeteners, their digestion and absorption processes, and their effects on the gut microbiota. We have also discussed the biochemical properties and production methods of rare sugars and their positive and negative effects on gut microbial communities. Finally, we have described how artificial sweeteners and rare sugars alter the gut microbiome and how these changes affect the gut environment. Our observations aim to improve our understanding regarding the potential health implications of the consumption of artificial sweeteners and low-calorie sugars.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chang-Young Lee
- Department of Food Science and Technology, College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Jeonbuk National University, Jeonju, 54896 Republic of Korea
| | - Yun-Sang So
- Department of Food Science & Biotechnology, and Carbohydrate Bioproduct Research Center, Sejong University, Seoul, 05006 Republic of Korea
| | - Sang-Ho Yoo
- Department of Food Science & Biotechnology, and Carbohydrate Bioproduct Research Center, Sejong University, Seoul, 05006 Republic of Korea
| | - Byung-Hoo Lee
- Department of Food Science & Biotechnology, Gachon University, Seongnam, 13120 Republic of Korea
| | - Dong-Ho Seo
- Department of Food Science and Technology, College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Jeonbuk National University, Jeonju, 54896 Republic of Korea
- Department of Food Science & Biotechnology, and Carbohydrate Bioproduct Research Center, Sejong University, Seoul, 05006 Republic of Korea
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12
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El-Tahan HM, Elmasry ME, Madian HA, Alhimaidi AR, Kim IH, Park JH, El-Tahan HM. Sucralose Influences the Productive Performance, Carcass Traits, Blood Components, and Gut Microflora Using 16S rRNA Sequencing of Growing APRI-Line Rabbits. Animals (Basel) 2024; 14:1925. [PMID: 38998037 PMCID: PMC11240599 DOI: 10.3390/ani14131925] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2024] [Revised: 06/19/2024] [Accepted: 06/19/2024] [Indexed: 07/14/2024] Open
Abstract
This study investigated how sucralose influenced rabbit intestine and caecal microbial activity, blood parameters, growth performance, carcass characteristics, and digestibility. In total, 160 5-week-old rabbits from the APRI line weighing 563.29 gm were randomly assigned to four experimental groups with four replicates-5 males and 5 females in each. Four experimental groups were used, as follows: SUC1, SUC2, and SUC3 got 75, 150, and 300 mg of sucralose/kg body weight in water daily, while the control group ate a basal diet without supplements. The results showed that both the control and SUC1 groups significantly (p < 0.05) increased daily weight gain and final body weight. Sucralose addition significantly improved feed conversion ratio (p < 0.05) and decreased daily feed intake (gm/d). The experimental groups do not significantly differ in terms of mortality. Furthermore, nutrient digestibility was not significantly affected by sucralose treatment, with the exception of crud protein digestion, which was significantly reduced (p < 0.05). Additionally, without altering liver or kidney function, sucralose administration dramatically (p < 0.05) decreased blood serum glucose and triglyceride levels while increasing total lipids, cholesterol, and malonaldehyde in comparison to the control group. Furthermore, the addition of sucrose resulted in a significant (p < 0.05) increase in the count of total bacteria, lactobacillus, and Clostridium spp., and a decrease in the count of Escherichia coli. Further analysis using 16S rRNA data revealed that sucralose upregulated the expression of lactobacillus genes but not that of Clostridium or E. Coli bacteria (p < 0.05). Therefore, it could be concluded that sucralose supplementation for rabbits modifies gut microbiota and boosts beneficial bacteria and feed conversion ratios without side effects. Moreover, sucralose could decrease blood glucose and intensify hypercholesterolemia and should be used with caution for human consumption.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hatem M El-Tahan
- Animal Production Research Institute (APRI), Agricultural Research Center (ARC), Ministry of Agriculture, Dokki, Giza 12611, Egypt
- Postdoc at the Department of Animal Science, Jeonbuk National University, Jeonju 54896, Republic of Korea
| | - Mohamad Elsayed Elmasry
- Animal Production Research Institute (APRI), Agricultural Research Center (ARC), Ministry of Agriculture, Dokki, Giza 12611, Egypt
| | - H A Madian
- Animal Production Research Institute (APRI), Agricultural Research Center (ARC), Ministry of Agriculture, Dokki, Giza 12611, Egypt
| | - Ahmad R Alhimaidi
- Department of Zoology, College of Science, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - In Ho Kim
- Animal Resource and Science Department, Dankook University, Cheonan 31116, Republic of Korea
- Smart Animal Bio Institute, Dankook University, Cheonan 31116, Republic of Korea
| | - Jae Hong Park
- Animal Resource and Science Department, Dankook University, Cheonan 31116, Republic of Korea
- Smart Animal Bio Institute, Dankook University, Cheonan 31116, Republic of Korea
| | - Hossam M El-Tahan
- Animal Production Research Institute (APRI), Agricultural Research Center (ARC), Ministry of Agriculture, Dokki, Giza 12611, Egypt
- Animal Resource and Science Department, Dankook University, Cheonan 31116, Republic of Korea
- Smart Animal Bio Institute, Dankook University, Cheonan 31116, Republic of Korea
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13
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Angelin M, Kumar J, Vajravelu LK, Satheesan A, Chaithanya V, Murugesan R. Artificial sweeteners and their implications in diabetes: a review. Front Nutr 2024; 11:1411560. [PMID: 38988858 PMCID: PMC11233937 DOI: 10.3389/fnut.2024.1411560] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2024] [Accepted: 06/11/2024] [Indexed: 07/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Diabetes is a significant global health concern, highlighting the critical role of dietary strategies in its management and prevention. Artificial sweeteners (ASs), due to their capacity to provide sweetness without contributing to caloric intake, have emerged as a potential tool in diabetes management. This review thoroughly examines the nuanced relationship between artificial sweeteners and diabetes, addressing their benefits and potential risks. ASs have been shown to aid in weight management, a key factor in reducing diabetes risk, and do not impact immediate blood glucose levels, offering improved glucose control for individuals with diabetes. Beyond these benefits, however, artificial sweeteners may interact complexly with gut microbiota, potentially altering its composition and affecting metabolic health. This interaction introduces concerns regarding insulin sensitivity and the risk of insulin resistance, with studies reporting conflicting findings. This comprehensive review highlights the importance of a nuanced approach to understanding the implications of artificial sweeteners in diabetes management. Given the mixed evidence on their health effects, there is a clear need for further research to fully elucidate the role of artificial sweeteners in metabolic health and their suitability as part of dietary interventions for diabetes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matcha Angelin
- Department of Microbiology, SRM Medical College Hospital and Research Centre, SRM IST, Kattankulathur, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Janardhanan Kumar
- Department of General Medicine, SRM Medical College Hospital and Research Centre, SRM IST, Kattankulathur, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Leela Kakithakara Vajravelu
- Department of Microbiology, SRM Medical College Hospital and Research Centre, SRM IST, Kattankulathur, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Abhishek Satheesan
- Department of Microbiology, SRM Medical College Hospital and Research Centre, SRM IST, Kattankulathur, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Venkata Chaithanya
- Department of Microbiology, SRM Medical College Hospital and Research Centre, SRM IST, Kattankulathur, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Ria Murugesan
- Department of Microbiology, SRM Medical College Hospital and Research Centre, SRM IST, Kattankulathur, Tamil Nadu, India
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14
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Shokri-Mashhadi N, Ghiasvand R, Feizi A, Ebrahimi-Monfared M, Vahid F, Banijamali A. Association between major dietary patterns and Parkinson's disease risk: a case-control study. Neurol Sci 2024; 45:2003-2010. [PMID: 37993683 DOI: 10.1007/s10072-023-07204-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2023] [Accepted: 11/10/2023] [Indexed: 11/24/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND There has been emerging attention to investigate the possible role of some dietary factors in the pathogenesis of Parkinson's disease (PD); however, evidence about the relationship between dietary components and the risk of PD is limited. The aim of this study was to determine the association between major dietary patterns and the risk of PD. METHODS This case-control study was performed on 105 patients with newly diagnosed PD and 215 healthy controls. Diagnosis of Parkinson's disease was made based on the UK Brain Bank criteria. Usual dietary intakes were collected by a validated semi-quantitative food frequency questionnaire. Dietary patterns were detected by principal component analysis. RESULTS Four dietary patterns, including traditional, healthy, western, and light dietary patterns, were identified. After considering all potential confounders, individuals with the highest tertile of traditional dietary pattern scores had a lower risk of PD than those with the lowest tertile (OR: 0.002; 95% CI: 0.000-0.016). A similar inverse association between the healthy pattern (OR: 0.314; 95% CI: 0.131-0.750) and light pattern (OR: 0.282; 95% CI: 0.121-0.654) and risk of PD was revealed. In contrast, adherence to the western dietary pattern was associated with PD incidence (OR: 7.26; 95% CI: 2.76-19.09). CONCLUSIONS The findings of this study suggest that adherence to western dietary pattern could increase the risk of PD by approximately seven times. However, the traditional, healthy, and light dietary patterns had an inverse relationship with PD risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nafiseh Shokri-Mashhadi
- Department of Clinical Nutrition, School of Nutrition and Food Science, Food Security Research Center, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Reza Ghiasvand
- Department of Community Nutrition, School of Nutrition and Food Science, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Awat Feizi
- Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | | | - Farhad Vahid
- Nutrition and Health Group, Department of Precision Health, Luxembourg Institute of Health, Strassen, Luxembourg
| | - Akram Banijamali
- Department of Community Nutrition, School of Nutrition and Food Science, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran.
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15
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Hang D, Du M, Wang L, Wang K, Fang Z, Khandpur N, Rossato SL, Steele EM, Chan AT, Hu FB, Meyerhardt JA, Mozaffarian D, Ogino S, Sun Q, Wong JB, Zhang FF, Song M. Ultra-processed food consumption and mortality among patients with stages I-III colorectal cancer: a prospective cohort study. EClinicalMedicine 2024; 71:102572. [PMID: 38572081 PMCID: PMC10990709 DOI: 10.1016/j.eclinm.2024.102572] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2023] [Revised: 02/24/2024] [Accepted: 03/13/2024] [Indexed: 04/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Ultra-processed foods (UPFs) are emerging as a risk factor for colorectal cancer (CRC), yet how post-diagnostic UPF intake may impact CRC prognosis remains unexplored. Methods Data collected from food frequency questionnaires were used to estimate intakes of total UPFs and UPF subgroups (serving/d) at least 6 months but less than 4 years post-diagnosis among 2498 patients diagnosed with stages I-III CRC within the Nurses' Health Study and Health Professionals Follow-up Study during 1980-2016. Hazard ratios (HR) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) of all-cause, CRC- and cardiovascular disease (CVD)-specific mortality in association with UPF consumption were estimated using an inverse probability weighted multivariable Cox proportional hazards regression model, adjusted for confounders. Findings The mean (SD) age of patients at diagnosis was 68.5 (9.4) years. A total of 1661 deaths were documented, including 321 from CRC and 335 from CVD. Compared to those in the lowest quintile (median = 3.6 servings/d), patients in the highest quintile (median = 10 servings/d) of post-diagnostic UPF intake had higher CVD mortality (HR = 1.65, 95% CI = 1.13-2.40) but not CRC or all-cause mortality. Among UPF subgroups, higher consumption of fats/condiments/sauces was associated with a higher risk of CVD-specific mortality (highest vs. lowest quintile of intake, HR = 1.96, 95% CI = 1.41-2.73), and higher intake of ice cream/sherbet was associated with an increased risk of CRC-specific mortality (highest vs. lowest quintile, HR = 1.86, 95% CI: 1.33-2.61). No statistically significant association was found between UPF subgroups and overall mortality. Interpretation Higher post-diagnostic intake of total UPFs and fats/condiments/sauces in CRC survivors is associated with higher CVD mortality, and higher ice cream/sherbet intake is linked to higher CRC mortality. Funding US National Institutes of Health and the American Cancer Society.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dong Hang
- Department of Epidemiology, Jiangsu Key Lab of Cancer Biomarkers, Prevention and Treatment, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Personalized Medicine, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
- Department of Nutrition, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Mengxi Du
- Department of Nutrition, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
- Friedman School of Nutrition Science and Policy, Tufts University, Boston, MA, USA
- Clinical and Translational Epidemiology Unit and Division of Gastroenterology, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Lu Wang
- Friedman School of Nutrition Science and Policy, Tufts University, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Kai Wang
- Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Zhe Fang
- Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Neha Khandpur
- Department of Nutrition, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
- Division of Human Nutrition and Health, Wageningen University, Netherlands
- Department of Nutrition, School of Public Health, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Sinara Laurini Rossato
- Department of Nutrition, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
- Institute of Geography, Universidade Federal de Uberlândia, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Eurídice Martínez Steele
- Department of Nutrition, School of Public Health, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
- Center for Epidemiological Studies in Health and Nutrition (NUPENS), Faculty of Public Health, University of São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Andrew T. Chan
- Department of Nutrition, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
- Clinical and Translational Epidemiology Unit and Division of Gastroenterology, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Frank B. Hu
- Department of Nutrition, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
- Channing Division of Network Medicine, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Jeffrey A. Meyerhardt
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Dariush Mozaffarian
- Friedman School of Nutrition Science and Policy, Tufts University, Boston, MA, USA
- Tufts School of Medicine and Division of Cardiology, Tufts Medical Center, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Shuji Ogino
- Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
- Program in MPE Molecular Pathological Epidemiology, Department of Pathology, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Division of Nutrition, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Tokyo Medical and Dental University (Institute of Science Tokyo), Tokyo, Japan
| | - Qi Sun
- Department of Nutrition, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
- Channing Division of Network Medicine, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - John B. Wong
- Division of Clinical Decision Making, Tufts Medical Center, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Fang Fang Zhang
- Friedman School of Nutrition Science and Policy, Tufts University, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Mingyang Song
- Department of Nutrition, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
- Clinical and Translational Epidemiology Unit and Division of Gastroenterology, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
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16
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Westmoreland AG, Schafer TB, Breland KE, Beard AR, Osborne TZ. Sucralose (C 12H 19Cl 3O 8) impact on microbial activity in estuarine and freshwater marsh soils. ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING AND ASSESSMENT 2024; 196:451. [PMID: 38613723 DOI: 10.1007/s10661-024-12610-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2023] [Accepted: 04/04/2024] [Indexed: 04/15/2024]
Abstract
As the general population's diet has shifted to reflect current weight-loss trends, there has been an increase in zero-calorie artificial sweetener usage. Sucralose (C12H19Cl3O8), commonly known as Splenda® in the USA, is a primary example of these sweeteners. In recent years, sucralose has been identified as an environmental contaminant that cannot easily be broken down via bacterial decomposition. This study focuses on the impact of sucralose presence on microbial communities in brackish and freshwater systems. Microbial respiration and fluorescence were measured as indicators of microbial activity in sucralose-dosed samples taken from both freshwater and estuarine marsh environments. Results showed a significant difference between microbial concentration and respiration when dosed with varying levels of sucralose. Diatom respiration implied a negative correlation of community abundance with sucralose concentration. The freshwater cyanobacterial respiration increased in the presence of sucralose, implying a positive correlation of community abundance with sucralose concentration. This was in direct contrast to its brackish water counterpart. However, further investigation is necessary to confirm any potential utility of these communities in the breakdown of sucralose in the marsh environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amelia G Westmoreland
- Whitney Laboratory for Marine Biosciences, University of Florida, St. Augustine, FL, USA.
| | - Tracey B Schafer
- Whitney Laboratory for Marine Biosciences, University of Florida, St. Augustine, FL, USA
| | - Kendall E Breland
- Whitney Laboratory for Marine Biosciences, University of Florida, St. Augustine, FL, USA
- Soil, Water and Ecosystem Sciences Department, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Anna R Beard
- Whitney Laboratory for Marine Biosciences, University of Florida, St. Augustine, FL, USA
| | - Todd Z Osborne
- Whitney Laboratory for Marine Biosciences, University of Florida, St. Augustine, FL, USA
- Soil, Water and Ecosystem Sciences Department, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
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17
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Veselovsky VA, Boldyreva DI, Olekhnovich EI, Klimina KM, Babenko VV, Zakharevich NV, Larin AK, Morozov MD, Zoruk PY, Sergiev PV, Dontsova OA, Maev IV, Novik TS, Kotlobay AA, Lazarev VN, Lagarkova MA. Effect of the consumption of brazzein and monellin, two recombinant sweet-tasting proteins, on rat gut microbiota. Front Nutr 2024; 11:1362529. [PMID: 38577158 PMCID: PMC10991754 DOI: 10.3389/fnut.2024.1362529] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2023] [Accepted: 03/11/2024] [Indexed: 04/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Sweet-tasting proteins (SPs) are proteins of plant origin initially isolated from tropical fruits. They are thousands of times sweeter than sucrose and most artificial sweeteners. SPs are a class of proteins capable of causing a sweet taste sensation in humans when interacting with the T1R2/T1R3 receptor. SP thaumatin has already been introduced in the food industry in some countries. Other SPs, such as monellin and brazzein, are promising products. An important stage in researching SPs, in addition to confirming the absence of toxicity, mutagenicity, oncogenicity, and allergenic effects, is studying their influence on gut microbiota. In this paper we describe changes in the composition of rat gut microbiota after six months of consuming one of two recombinant SPs-brazzein or monellin. A full length 16S gene sequencing method was used for DNA library barcoding. The MaAsLin2 analysis results showed noticeable fluctuations in the relative abundances of Anaerocella delicata in brazzein-fed rat microbiota, and of Anaerutruncus rubiinfantis in monellin-fed rat microbiota, which, however, did not exceed the standard deviation. The sucrose-fed group was associated with an increase in the relative abundance of Faecalibaculum rodentium, which may contribute to obesity. Overall, prolonged consumption of the sweet proteins brazzein and monellin did not significantly change rat microbiota and did not result in the appearance of opportunistic microbiota. This provides additional evidence for the safety of these potential sweeteners.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vladimir A. Veselovsky
- Lopukhin Federal Research and Clinical Centre of Physical-Chemical Medicine, Moscow, Russia
| | - Daria I. Boldyreva
- Lopukhin Federal Research and Clinical Centre of Physical-Chemical Medicine, Moscow, Russia
| | - Evgenii I. Olekhnovich
- Lopukhin Federal Research and Clinical Centre of Physical-Chemical Medicine, Moscow, Russia
| | - Ksenia M. Klimina
- Lopukhin Federal Research and Clinical Centre of Physical-Chemical Medicine, Moscow, Russia
| | - Vladislav V. Babenko
- Lopukhin Federal Research and Clinical Centre of Physical-Chemical Medicine, Moscow, Russia
| | - Natalia V. Zakharevich
- Lopukhin Federal Research and Clinical Centre of Physical-Chemical Medicine, Moscow, Russia
| | - Andrey K. Larin
- Lopukhin Federal Research and Clinical Centre of Physical-Chemical Medicine, Moscow, Russia
| | - Maxim D. Morozov
- Lopukhin Federal Research and Clinical Centre of Physical-Chemical Medicine, Moscow, Russia
| | - Polina Y. Zoruk
- Lopukhin Federal Research and Clinical Centre of Physical-Chemical Medicine, Moscow, Russia
| | - Petr V. Sergiev
- A.N. Belozersky Institute of Physico-Chemical Biology, Lomonosov Moscow State University, Moscow, Russia
| | - Olga A. Dontsova
- A.N. Belozersky Institute of Physico-Chemical Biology, Lomonosov Moscow State University, Moscow, Russia
| | - Igor V. Maev
- Department of Propaedeutics of Internal Diseases and Gastroenterology, Moscow State University of Medicine and Dentistry, Moscow, Russia
| | | | - Anatoly A. Kotlobay
- Lopukhin Federal Research and Clinical Centre of Physical-Chemical Medicine, Moscow, Russia
| | - Vassili N. Lazarev
- Lopukhin Federal Research and Clinical Centre of Physical-Chemical Medicine, Moscow, Russia
| | - Maria A. Lagarkova
- Lopukhin Federal Research and Clinical Centre of Physical-Chemical Medicine, Moscow, Russia
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18
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Zhang X, Wu S, Feng T, Yan Y, Wu S, Chen Y, Wang Y, Wang Q, Hu N, Wang L. Visualized sensing of erythritol using a simple enzyme-free catechol-based hydrogel film. ANALYTICAL METHODS : ADVANCING METHODS AND APPLICATIONS 2024; 16:1686-1696. [PMID: 38421030 DOI: 10.1039/d3ay02131a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/02/2024]
Abstract
Based on the versatile properties of bio-derived materials, non-enzymatic assays in combination with electronic devices have attracted increasing interest. Here, we report a novel enzyme-free visualization approach for the detection of erythritol, which is a zero-calorie natural sweetener and serves as an ideal sucrose substitute for diabetics or overweight people who need sugar control. The recognition element of the electrochemical biosensor was constructed by catechol modification on a chitosan-based hydrogel film. The signal transduction was achieved by the competitive binding assay of sweeteners. The results show that 2-fluorophenylboronic acid (FPBA) can form a cyclic boronate ester with the ortho-hydroxyls of both reduced catechol and oxidized quinone, impeding the electron transfer and leading to redox signal attenuation. The addition of sweeteners caused a competitive reaction resulting in bonding between the 1,2-diols and FPBA moieties, and in the recovery of the redox signals. Importantly, the pattern of redox signal changes of catechol can be detected optically, as the oxidized quinone state is darker in color than the reduced catechol state. Using a simple cell phone imaging application, we demonstrate that erythritol can be distinguished from other sweeteners in real samples using the oxidized catechol-Chit0/agarose hydrogel film. Thus, we envision that this method could allow diabetics and people who need to control their sugar intake to detect whether the product contains only erythritol in the field or at home. In addition, this work further illustrates the potential of bio-derived materials for performing redox-based functions and enzyme-free visualization assays.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinyue Zhang
- College of Resources and Environment Engineering, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430081, China.
| | - Si Wu
- College of Resources and Environment Engineering, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430081, China.
- Hubei Key Laboratory for Efficient Utilization and Agglomeration of Metallurgic Mineral Resources, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430081, China
| | - Tao Feng
- College of Resources and Environment Engineering, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430081, China.
- Hubei Key Laboratory for Efficient Utilization and Agglomeration of Metallurgic Mineral Resources, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430081, China
| | - Yuanhao Yan
- College of Resources and Environment Engineering, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430081, China.
| | - Shijing Wu
- College of Resources and Environment Engineering, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430081, China.
| | - Yinyu Chen
- College of Resources and Environment Engineering, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430081, China.
| | - Yu Wang
- College of Resources and Environment Engineering, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430081, China.
| | - Qingmiao Wang
- College of Resources and Environment Engineering, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430081, China.
| | - Ning Hu
- College of Resources and Environment Engineering, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430081, China.
| | - Li Wang
- College of Resources and Environment Engineering, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430081, China.
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19
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Kearns ML, Reynolds CM. The impact of non-nutritive sweeteners on fertility, maternal and child health outcomes: a review of human and animal studies. Proc Nutr Soc 2024:1-13. [PMID: 38433591 DOI: 10.1017/s0029665124000168] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/05/2024]
Abstract
There is significant evidence that an unhealthy diet greatly increases the risk of complications during pregnancy and predisposes offspring to metabolic dysfunction and obesity. While fat intake is typically associated with the onset of obesity and its comorbidities, there is increasing evidence linking sugar, particularly high fructose corn syrup, to the global rise in obesity rates. Furthermore, the detrimental effects of added sugar intake during pregnancy on mother and child have been clearly outlined. Guidelines advising pregnant women to avoid food and beverages with high fat and sugar have led to an increase in consumption of 'diet' or 'light' options. Examination of some human birth cohort studies shows that heavy consumption (at least one beverage a day) of non-nutritive sweetener (NNS) containing beverages has been associated with increased risk of preterm birth and increased weight/BMI in male offspring independent of maternal weight, which appears to be offset by breastfeeding for 6 months. Rodent models have shown that NNS exposure during pregnancy can impact maternal metabolic health, adipose tissue function, gut microbiome profiles and taste preference. However, the mechanisms underlying these effects are multifaceted and further research, particularly in a translational setting is required to fully understand the effects of NNS on maternal and infant health during pregnancy. Therefore, this review examines maternal sweetener intakes and their influence on fertility, maternal health outcomes and offspring outcomes in human cohort studies and rodent models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michelle L Kearns
- School of Public Health, Physiotherapy and Sports Science/Conway Institute/Institute of Food and Health/Diabetes Complications Research Centre, University College Dublin (UCD), Belfield, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Clare M Reynolds
- School of Public Health, Physiotherapy and Sports Science/Conway Institute/Institute of Food and Health/Diabetes Complications Research Centre, University College Dublin (UCD), Belfield, Dublin, Ireland
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20
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Chatelan A, Raeisi-Dehkordi H, Salehi-Abargouei A. Substituting Low-Calorie Sweetened Beverages for Sugar-Sweetened Beverages to Prevent Obesity and Cardiometabolic Diseases: Still a Good Idea? Curr Dev Nutr 2024; 8:102105. [PMID: 38440361 PMCID: PMC10911947 DOI: 10.1016/j.cdnut.2024.102105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2024] [Accepted: 02/12/2024] [Indexed: 03/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Low-calorie sweeteners (LCSs) and LCS-containing beverages have been proposed as appropriate substitutes for caloric sugars in recent years. In this Perspective, we highlight the recent findings from observational and interventional studies, focusing on obesity, gut microbiome, and cardiometabolic health. We provide public health actors and health care professionals with an insightful overview of recent evidence to bridge the gap between research and practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angeline Chatelan
- Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, Geneva School of Health Sciences, HES-SO University of Applied Sciences and Arts Western Switzerland, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Hamidreza Raeisi-Dehkordi
- Department of Global Public Health and Bioethics, Julius Center, University Medical Center (UMC) Utrecht, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Amin Salehi-Abargouei
- Research Center for Food Hygiene and Safety, Yazd Cardiovascular Research Center, Non-communicable Diseases Research Institute, Department of Nutrition, School of Public Health, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran
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21
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Zou Y, Li X, Xin X, Xu H, Zhao G. Microbial-Driven Synthesis and Hydrolysis of Neohesperidin Dihydrochalcone: Biotransformation Process and Feasibility Investigation. JOURNAL OF AGRICULTURAL AND FOOD CHEMISTRY 2024; 72:4246-4256. [PMID: 38317352 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jafc.3c08339] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2024]
Abstract
A novel yeast-mediated hydrogenation was developed for the synthesis of neohesperidin dihydrochalcone (NHDC) in high yields (over 83%). Moreover, whole-cell catalytic hydrolysis was also designed to hydrolyze NHDC into potential sweeteners, hesperetin dihydrochalcone-7-O-glucoside (HDC-G) and hesperetin dihydrochalcone (HDC). The biohydrogenation was further combined with whole-cell hydrolysis to achieve a one-pot two-step biosynthesis, utilizing yeast to hydrogenate C═C in the structure, while Aspergillus niger cells hydrolyze glycosides. The conversion of NHDC and the proportion of hydrolysis products could be controlled by adjusting the catalysts, the components of the reaction system, and the addition of glucose. Furthermore, yeast-mediated biotransformation demonstrated superior reaction stability and enhanced safety and employed more cost-effective catalysts compared to the traditional chemical hydrogenation of NHDC synthesis. This research not only provides a new route for NHDC production but also offers a safe and flexible one-pot cascade biosynthetic platform for the production of high-value compounds from citrus processing wastes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yucong Zou
- School of Food Science and Engineering, South China University of Technology, Wushan Road 381, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510640, China
| | - Xiaofeng Li
- School of Food Science and Engineering, South China University of Technology, Wushan Road 381, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510640, China
| | - Xuan Xin
- College of Light Industry and Food Technology, Zhongkai University of Agriculture and Engineering, Dongsha Street 24, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510225, China
| | - Haixia Xu
- Jiangxi Key Laboratory National Products and Functional Food, College of Food Science and Engineering, Jiangxi Agricultural University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 3300045, China
| | - Guanglei Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Pulp and Paper Engineering, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510641, China
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22
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Morissette A, de Wouters d'Oplinter A, Andre DM, Lavoie M, Marcotte B, Varin TV, Trottier J, Pilon G, Pelletier M, Cani PD, Barbier O, Houde VP, Marette A. Rebaudioside D decreases adiposity and hepatic lipid accumulation in a mouse model of obesity. Sci Rep 2024; 14:3077. [PMID: 38321177 PMCID: PMC10847429 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-53587-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2023] [Accepted: 02/01/2024] [Indexed: 02/08/2024] Open
Abstract
Overconsumption of added sugars has been pointed out as a major culprit in the increasing rates of obesity worldwide, contributing to the rising popularity of non-caloric sweeteners. In order to satisfy the growing demand, industrial efforts have been made to purify the sweet-tasting molecules found in the natural sweetener stevia, which are characterized by a sweet taste free of unpleasant aftertaste. Although the use of artificial sweeteners has raised many concerns regarding metabolic health, the impact of purified stevia components on the latter remains poorly studied. The objective of this project was to evaluate the impact of two purified sweet-tasting components of stevia, rebaudioside A and D (RebA and RebD), on the development of obesity, insulin resistance, hepatic health, bile acid profile, and gut microbiota in a mouse model of diet-induced obesity. Male C57BL/6 J mice were fed an obesogenic high-fat/high-sucrose (HFHS) diet and orally treated with 50 mg/kg of RebA, RebD or vehicle (water) for 12 weeks. An additional group of chow-fed mice treated with the vehicle was included as a healthy reference. At weeks 10 and 12, insulin and oral glucose tolerance tests were performed. Liver lipids content was analyzed. Whole-genome shotgun sequencing was performed to profile the gut microbiota. Bile acids were measured in the feces, plasma, and liver. Liver lipid content and gene expression were analyzed. As compared to the HFHS-vehicle treatment group, mice administered RebD showed a reduced weight gain, as evidenced by decreased visceral adipose tissue weight. Liver triglycerides and cholesterol from RebD-treated mice were lower and lipid peroxidation was decreased. Interestingly, administration of RebD was associated with a significant enrichment of Faecalibaculum rodentium in the gut microbiota and an increased secondary bile acid metabolism. Moreover, RebD decreased the level of lipopolysaccharide-binding protein (LBP). Neither RebA nor RebD treatments were found to impact glucose homeostasis. The daily consumption of two stevia components has no detrimental effects on metabolic health. In contrast, RebD treatment was found to reduce adiposity, alleviate hepatic steatosis and lipid peroxidation, and decrease LBP, a marker of metabolic endotoxemia in a mouse model of diet-induced obesity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arianne Morissette
- Cardiology Axis, Québec Heart and Lung Institute (IUCPQ), Université Laval, Québec, QC, G1V 0A6, Canada
- Institute of Nutrition and Functional Foods (INAF), Université Laval, Québec, Canada
| | - Alice de Wouters d'Oplinter
- Cardiology Axis, Québec Heart and Lung Institute (IUCPQ), Université Laval, Québec, QC, G1V 0A6, Canada
- Metabolism and Nutrition Research Group, Louvain Drug Research Institute (LDRI), UCLouvain, Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
- WELBIO-Walloon Excellence in Life Sciences and Biotechnology, WELBIO Department, WEL Research Institute, Avenue Pasteur, 6, 1300, Wavre, Belgium
| | - Diana Majolli Andre
- Cardiology Axis, Québec Heart and Lung Institute (IUCPQ), Université Laval, Québec, QC, G1V 0A6, Canada
- Institute of Nutrition and Functional Foods (INAF), Université Laval, Québec, Canada
| | - Marilou Lavoie
- Cardiology Axis, Québec Heart and Lung Institute (IUCPQ), Université Laval, Québec, QC, G1V 0A6, Canada
- Institute of Nutrition and Functional Foods (INAF), Université Laval, Québec, Canada
| | - Bruno Marcotte
- Cardiology Axis, Québec Heart and Lung Institute (IUCPQ), Université Laval, Québec, QC, G1V 0A6, Canada
| | - Thibault V Varin
- Institute of Nutrition and Functional Foods (INAF), Université Laval, Québec, Canada
| | - Jocelyn Trottier
- Infectious and Immune Diseases Research Axis, Centre de Recherche du CHU de Québec-Université Laval, Québec, Canada
| | - Geneviève Pilon
- Cardiology Axis, Québec Heart and Lung Institute (IUCPQ), Université Laval, Québec, QC, G1V 0A6, Canada
- Institute of Nutrition and Functional Foods (INAF), Université Laval, Québec, Canada
| | - Martin Pelletier
- Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology, Endocrinology and Nephrology Axis, Faculty of Pharmacy, CHU of Québec Research Center, Québec, Canada
| | - Patrice D Cani
- Metabolism and Nutrition Research Group, Louvain Drug Research Institute (LDRI), UCLouvain, Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
- WELBIO-Walloon Excellence in Life Sciences and Biotechnology, WELBIO Department, WEL Research Institute, Avenue Pasteur, 6, 1300, Wavre, Belgium
- Institute of Experimental and Clinical Research (IREC), UCLouvain, Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Olivier Barbier
- Infectious and Immune Diseases Research Axis, Centre de Recherche du CHU de Québec-Université Laval, Québec, Canada
| | - Vanessa P Houde
- Cardiology Axis, Québec Heart and Lung Institute (IUCPQ), Université Laval, Québec, QC, G1V 0A6, Canada
- Institute of Nutrition and Functional Foods (INAF), Université Laval, Québec, Canada
| | - André Marette
- Cardiology Axis, Québec Heart and Lung Institute (IUCPQ), Université Laval, Québec, QC, G1V 0A6, Canada.
- Institute of Nutrition and Functional Foods (INAF), Université Laval, Québec, Canada.
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23
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Power ME, Fernandez NR, Oni OP, Kalia A, Rourke JL. The non-nutritive sweetener sucralose increases β-arrestin signaling at the constitutively active orphan G protein-coupled receptor GPR52. Can J Physiol Pharmacol 2024; 102:116-127. [PMID: 37748201 DOI: 10.1139/cjpp-2023-0199] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/27/2023]
Abstract
Non-nutritive sweeteners are popular food additives owing to their low caloric density and powerful sweetness relative to natural sugars. Their lack of metabolism contributes to evidence proclaiming their safety, yet several studies contradict this, demonstrating that sweeteners activate sweet taste G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) and elicit deleterious metabolic functions through unknown mechanisms. We hypothesize that activation of GPCRs, particularly orphan receptors due to their abundance in metabolically active tissues, contributes to the biological activity of sweeteners. We quantified the response of 64 orphans to the sweeteners saccharin and sucralose using a high-throughput β-arrestin-2 recruitment assay (PRESTO-Tango). GPR52 was the sole receptor that significantly responded to a mixture of sucralose and saccharin. Subsequent experiments revealed sucralose as the activating sweetener. Activation of GPR52 was concentration-dependent, with an EC50 of 0.23 mmol/L and an Emax of 3.43 ± 0.24 fold change at 4 mmol/L. GPR52 constitutively activates CRE pathways; however, we show that sucralose-induced activation of GPR52 does not further activate this pathway. Identification of this novel sucralose-GPCR interaction supports the notion that sucralose elicits off-target signaling through the activation of GPR52, calling into question sucralose's assumed lack of bioactivity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Madeline E Power
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Mount Allison University, Sackville, NB, Canada
| | - Nicholas R Fernandez
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Mount Allison University, Sackville, NB, Canada
| | - Olaiya Peter Oni
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Mount Allison University, Sackville, NB, Canada
| | - Aditaya Kalia
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Mount Allison University, Sackville, NB, Canada
| | - Jillian L Rourke
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Mount Allison University, Sackville, NB, Canada
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24
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Álvarez-Herms J, González-Benito A, Corbi F, Odriozola A. What if gastrointestinal complications in endurance athletes were gut injuries in response to a high consumption of ultra-processed foods? Please take care of your bugs if you want to improve endurance performance: a narrative review. Eur J Appl Physiol 2024; 124:383-402. [PMID: 37839038 DOI: 10.1007/s00421-023-05331-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2023] [Accepted: 09/20/2023] [Indexed: 10/17/2023]
Abstract
To improve performance and recovery faster, athletes are advised to eat more often than usual and consume higher doses of simple carbohydrates, during and after exercise. Sports energetic supplements contain food additives, such as artificial sweeteners, emulsifiers, acidity regulators, preservatives, and salts, which could be harmful to the gut microbiota and impair the intestinal barrier function. The intestinal barrier plays a critical function in bidirectionally regulation of the selective transfer of nutrients, water, and electrolytes, while preventing at the same time, the entrance of harmful substances (selective permeability). The gut microbiota helps to the host to regulate intestinal homeostasis through metabolic, protective, and immune functions. Globally, the gut health is essential to maintain systemic homeostasis in athletes, and to ensure proper digestion, metabolization, and substrate absorption. Gastrointestinal complaints are an important cause of underperformance and dropout during endurance events. These complications are directly related to the loss of gut equilibrium, mainly linked to microbiota dysbiosis and leaky gut. In summary, athletes must be cautious with the elevated intake of ultra-processed foods and specifically those contained on sports nutrition supplements. This review points out the specific nutritional interventions that should be implemented and/or discontinued depending on individual gut functionality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jesús Álvarez-Herms
- Phymolab (Physiology and Molecular Laboratory), Collado Hermoso, Segovia, Spain.
- Department of Genetics, Physical Anthropology and Animal Physiology, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), Bilbao, Spain.
| | - A González-Benito
- Department of Genetics, Physical Anthropology and Animal Physiology, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), Bilbao, Spain
| | - F Corbi
- Institut Nacional d'Educació Física de Catalunya (INEFC), University of Lleida (UdL), Lleida, Spain
| | - A Odriozola
- Department of Genetics, Physical Anthropology and Animal Physiology, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), Bilbao, Spain
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25
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Satheesh Babu AK, Petersen C, Paz HA, Iglesias-Carres L, Li Y, Zhong Y, Neilson AP, Wankhade UD, Anandh Babu PV. Gut Microbiota Depletion Using Antibiotics to Investigate Diet-Derived Microbial Metabolites: An Efficient Strategy. Mol Nutr Food Res 2024; 68:e2300386. [PMID: 38054624 DOI: 10.1002/mnfr.202300386] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2023] [Revised: 09/07/2023] [Indexed: 12/07/2023]
Abstract
SCOPE Gut microbiota depletion using antibiotics in drinking water is a valuable tool to investigate the role of gut microbes and microbial metabolites in health and disease. However, there are challenges associated with this model. Animals avoid drinking water because of the antibiotic bitterness, which affects their metabolic health. The present study develops an efficient strategy to deplete gut microbes without affecting metabolic parameters. METHODS AND RESULTS Male C57BL/6J mice (7 weeks old) are fed a control (C) or high-fat (HF) diet. Subgroups of C and HF mice receive an antibiotic cocktail in drinking water (CA and HA). The antibiotic dosage is gradually increased so that the animals adapt to the taste of antibiotics. Metabolic parameters, gut microbiome, and microbial metabolites are assessed after 12 weeks treatment. Culture methods and 16s rRNA amplification confirm the depletion of gut microbes in antibiotic groups (CA and HA). Further, antibiotic treatment does not alter metabolic parameters (body weight, body fat, lean body mass, blood glucose, and glucose/insulin tolerance), whereas it suppresses the production of diet-derived microbial metabolites (trimethylamine and trimethylamine-N-oxide). CONCLUSION This strategy effectively depletes gut microbes and suppresses the production of microbial metabolites in mice without affecting their metabolic health.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Chrissa Petersen
- Department of Nutrition and Integrative Physiology, College of Health, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, 84112, USA
| | - Henry A Paz
- Arkansas Children's Nutrition Center, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, 72205, AR, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, 72205, USA
| | - Lisard Iglesias-Carres
- Plants for Human Health Institute, Department of Food, Bioprocessing and Nutrition Sciences, North Carolina State University, Kannapolis, NC, 28081, USA
| | - Ying Li
- Department of Nutrition and Integrative Physiology, College of Health, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, 84112, USA
| | - Ying Zhong
- Arkansas Children's Nutrition Center, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, 72205, AR, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, 72205, USA
| | - Andrew P Neilson
- Plants for Human Health Institute, Department of Food, Bioprocessing and Nutrition Sciences, North Carolina State University, Kannapolis, NC, 28081, USA
| | - Umesh D Wankhade
- Arkansas Children's Nutrition Center, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, 72205, AR, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, 72205, USA
| | - Pon Velayutham Anandh Babu
- Department of Nutrition and Integrative Physiology, College of Health, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, 84112, USA
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26
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Schwarz A, Hernandez L, Arefin S, Sartirana E, Witasp A, Wernerson A, Stenvinkel P, Kublickiene K. Sweet, bloody consumption - what we eat and how it affects vascular ageing, the BBB and kidney health in CKD. Gut Microbes 2024; 16:2341449. [PMID: 38686499 PMCID: PMC11062370 DOI: 10.1080/19490976.2024.2341449] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2023] [Accepted: 04/04/2024] [Indexed: 05/02/2024] Open
Abstract
In today's industrialized society food consumption has changed immensely toward heightened red meat intake and use of artificial sweeteners instead of grains and vegetables or sugar, respectively. These dietary changes affect public health in general through an increased incidence of metabolic diseases like diabetes and obesity, with a further elevated risk for cardiorenal complications. Research shows that high red meat intake and artificial sweeteners ingestion can alter the microbial composition and further intestinal wall barrier permeability allowing increased transmission of uremic toxins like p-cresyl sulfate, indoxyl sulfate, trimethylamine n-oxide and phenylacetylglutamine into the blood stream causing an array of pathophysiological effects especially as a strain on the kidneys, since they are responsible for clearing out the toxins. In this review, we address how the burden of the Western diet affects the gut microbiome in altering the microbial composition and increasing the gut permeability for uremic toxins and the detrimental effects thereof on early vascular aging, the kidney per se and the blood-brain barrier, in addition to the potential implications for dietary changes/interventions to preserve the health issues related to chronic diseases in future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angelina Schwarz
- Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology, Division of Renal Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Leah Hernandez
- Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology, Division of Renal Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Samsul Arefin
- Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology, Division of Renal Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Elisa Sartirana
- Department of Translational Medicine, Nephrology and Kidney Transplantation Unit, University of Piemonte Orientale, Novara, Italy
| | - Anna Witasp
- Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology, Division of Renal Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Annika Wernerson
- Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology, Division of Renal Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Peter Stenvinkel
- Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology, Division of Renal Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Renal Medicine, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Karolina Kublickiene
- Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology, Division of Renal Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
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27
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Ghaffarpour M, Karami‐Zarandi M, Rahdar HA, Feyisa SG, Taki E. Periodontal disease in down syndrome: Predisposing factors and potential non-surgical therapeutic approaches. J Clin Lab Anal 2024; 38:e25002. [PMID: 38254289 PMCID: PMC10829694 DOI: 10.1002/jcla.25002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2023] [Revised: 11/06/2023] [Accepted: 12/31/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Periodontal diseases (PDs) have been documented to be significantly more prevalent and severe in patients with Down syndrome (DS). Different immunological and microbiological factors contributed to predisposing these patients to progressive and recurrent PDs. AIM The aim of this review was to investigate the altered immunological responses and oral microbiota disorders as well as focus on adjunctive non-surgical methods for the treatment of PDs and its applicability in patients with DS. MATERIAL AND METHODS A literature review was conducted addressing the following topics: (1) the altered immunological responses, (2) orofacial disorders related to DS patients, (3) oral microbiota changing, and (4) adjunctive non-surgical treatment and its efficacy in patients with DS. RESULTS Due to the early onset of PDs in children with DS, the need for prompt and effective treatment in these patients is essential. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION So, investigating underlying factors may open a new window to better understand the pathology of PDs in DS people and thus, find better strategies for treatment in such group. Although non-surgical treatments such as photodynamic therapy and probiotic consumption represented acceptable outcomes in different examined patients without DS, data about the application of these convenience and no need for local anesthesia methods in patients with DS is limited.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahdie Ghaffarpour
- Department of Oral Medicine, School of DentistryTehran University of Medical SciencesTehranIran
| | - Morteza Karami‐Zarandi
- Department of Microbiology, School of MedicineZanjan University of Medical SciencesZanjanIran
| | - Hossein Ali Rahdar
- Department of Microbiology, School of MedicineIranshahr University of Medical SciencesIranshahrIran
| | - Seifu Gizaw Feyisa
- Department of Medical LaboratorySalale University College of Health SciencesFicheEthiopia
| | - Elahe Taki
- Department of Microbiology, School of MedicineKermanshah University of Medical SciencesKermanshahIran
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28
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Rodríguez-Ayala M, Donat-Vargas C, Moreno-Franco B, Mérida DM, Ramón Banegas J, Rodríguez-Artalejo F, Guallar-Castillón P. Association of a healthy beverage score with total mortality in the adult population of Spain: A nationwide cohort study. PLoS Med 2024; 21:e1004337. [PMID: 38261590 PMCID: PMC10805278 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pmed.1004337] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2023] [Accepted: 12/21/2023] [Indexed: 01/25/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite the substantial evidence of the relationship between diet and mortality, the role of beverage consumption patterns is not well known. The aim of this study was to assess the association of the adherence to a Healthy Beverage Score (HBS) and all-cause mortality in a representative sample of the Spanish adult population. METHODS AND FINDINGS We conducted an observational cohort study using data from the Study on Nutrition and Cardiovascular Risk in Spain (ENRICA), which included 12,161 community-dwelling individuals aged ≥18 years recruited in 2008 to 2010 and followed until January 2022. At baseline, food consumption was collected using a validated diet history. The HBS consists of 7 items, each of which is scored from 1 to 4 (highest adherence). The HBS ranges from 7 to 28 points with a higher score representing a healthier pattern. Adherence was assigned as a higher consumption of low-fat milk, and coffee and tea, a lower consumption of whole-fat milk, no consumption of fruit juice, artificially sweetened beverages, or sugar-sweetened beverages, and no or moderate consumption of alcohol. Total mortality was ascertained by linkage to the Spanish National Death Index. Statistical analyses were performed with Cox models and adjusted for the main confounders, including sociodemographic, lifestyle, dietary variables, and morbidity. After a mean follow-up of 12.5 years (SD: 1.7; range: 0.5 to 12.9), a total of 967 deaths occurred. For all-cause mortality, the fully adjusted hazard ratio (HR) for the highest versus lowest sex-specific quartiles of HBS was 0.72 (95% confidence interval [0.57, 0.91], p linear-trend = 0.015), corresponding to an 8.3% reduction in the absolute risk of death. A linear relationship between the risk of death and the adherence to the HBS was observed using restricted cubic splines. The results were robust to sensitivity analyses. The main limitation was that repeated measurements on beverage consumption were not available and beverage consumption could have changed during follow-up. CONCLUSIONS In this study, we observed that higher adherence to the HBS was associated with lower total mortality. Adherence to a healthy beverage pattern could play a role in the prevention of premature mortality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Montserrat Rodríguez-Ayala
- Department of Preventive Medicine and Public Health, School of Medicine, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid and CIBERESP (CIBER of Epidemiology and Public Health), Madrid, Spain
- Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, Hospital Universitario La Paz, Madrid, Spain
| | - Carolina Donat-Vargas
- Department of Preventive Medicine and Public Health, School of Medicine, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid and CIBERESP (CIBER of Epidemiology and Public Health), Madrid, Spain
- ISGlobal, Campus Mar., Barcelona, Spain
- Unit of Cardiovascular and Nutritional Epidemiology, Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Belén Moreno-Franco
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria (IIS) Aragón, Hospital Universitario Miguel Servet, Zaragoza, Spain
- CIBERCV (CIBER of Cardiovascular), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - Diana María Mérida
- Department of Preventive Medicine and Public Health, School of Medicine, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid and CIBERESP (CIBER of Epidemiology and Public Health), Madrid, Spain
| | - José Ramón Banegas
- Department of Preventive Medicine and Public Health, School of Medicine, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid and CIBERESP (CIBER of Epidemiology and Public Health), Madrid, Spain
| | - Fernando Rodríguez-Artalejo
- Department of Preventive Medicine and Public Health, School of Medicine, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid and CIBERESP (CIBER of Epidemiology and Public Health), Madrid, Spain
- IMDEA-Food Institute, CEI UAM+CSIC., Madrid, Spain
| | - Pilar Guallar-Castillón
- Department of Preventive Medicine and Public Health, School of Medicine, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid and CIBERESP (CIBER of Epidemiology and Public Health), Madrid, Spain
- IMDEA-Food Institute, CEI UAM+CSIC., Madrid, Spain
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29
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Gauthier E, Milagro FI, Navas-Carretero S. Effect of low-and non-calorie sweeteners on the gut microbiota: A review of clinical trials and cross-sectional studies. Nutrition 2024; 117:112237. [PMID: 37897982 DOI: 10.1016/j.nut.2023.112237] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2023] [Revised: 09/18/2023] [Accepted: 09/21/2023] [Indexed: 10/30/2023]
Abstract
Use of non-nutritive sweeteners (NNSs) has increased worldwide in recent decades. However, evidence from preclinical studies shows that sweetener consumption may induce glucose intolerance through changes in the gut microbiota, which raises public health concerns. As studies conducted on humans are lacking, the aim of this review was to gather and summarize the current evidence on the effects of NNSs on human gut microbiota. Only clinical trials and cross-sectional studies were included in the review. Regarding NNSs (i.e, saccharin, sucralose, aspartame, and stevia), only two of five clinical trials showed significant changes in gut microbiota composition after the intervention protocol. These studies concluded that saccharin and sucralose impair glycemic tolerance. In three of the four cross-sectional studies an association between NNSs and the microbial composition was observed. All three clinical trials on polyols (i.e, xylitol) showed prebiotic effects on gut microbiota, but these studies had multiple limitations (publication date, dosage, duration) that jeopardize their validity. The microbial response to NNSs consumption could be strongly mediated by the gut microbial composition at baseline. Further studies in which the potential personalized microbial response to NNSs consumption is acknowledged, and that include longer intervention protocols, larger cohorts, and more realistic sweetener dosage are needed to broaden these findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ellie Gauthier
- School of Nutrition, Université Laval, Quebec City, Quebec, Canada; Centre Nutrition, santé et société (NUTRISS)-Institut sur la nutrition et les aliments fonctionnels (INAF), Université Laval, Quebec City, Quebec, Canada
| | - Fermin I Milagro
- Center for Nutrition Research; Department of Nutrition, Food Sciences and Physiology; School of Pharmacy and Nutrition, University of Navarra, Pamplona, Spain; Navarra Institute for Health Research (IdiSNA), Pamplona, Spain; CIBER Physiopathology of Obesity and Nutrition (CIBEROBN), Institute of Health Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - Santiago Navas-Carretero
- Center for Nutrition Research; Department of Nutrition, Food Sciences and Physiology; School of Pharmacy and Nutrition, University of Navarra, Pamplona, Spain; Navarra Institute for Health Research (IdiSNA), Pamplona, Spain; CIBER Physiopathology of Obesity and Nutrition (CIBEROBN), Institute of Health Carlos III, Madrid, Spain.
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Posta E, Fekete I, Gyarmati E, Stündl L, Zold E, Barta Z. The Effects of Artificial Sweeteners on Intestinal Nutrient-Sensing Receptors: Dr. Jekyll or Mr. Hyde? Life (Basel) 2023; 14:10. [PMID: 38276259 PMCID: PMC10817473 DOI: 10.3390/life14010010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2023] [Revised: 12/14/2023] [Accepted: 12/15/2023] [Indexed: 01/27/2024] Open
Abstract
The consumption of artificial and low-calorie sweeteners (ASs, LCSs) is an important component of the Western diet. ASs play a role in the pathogenesis of metabolic syndrome, dysbiosis, inflammatory bowel diseases (IBDs), and various inflammatory conditions. Intestinal nutrient-sensing receptors act as a crosstalk between dietary components, the gut microbiota, and the regulation of immune, endocrinological, and neurological responses. This narrative review aimed to summarize the possible effects of ASs and LCSs on intestinal nutrient-sensing receptors and their related functions. Based on the findings of various studies, long-term AS consumption has effects on the gut microbiota and intestinal nutrient-sensing receptors in modulating incretin hormones, antimicrobial peptides, and cytokine secretion. These effects contribute to the regulation of glucose metabolism, ion transport, gut permeability, and inflammation and modulate the gut-brain, and gut-kidney axes. Based on the conflicting findings of several in vitro, in vivo, and randomized and controlled studies, artificial sweeteners may have a role in the pathogenesis of IBDs, functional bowel diseases, metabolic syndrome, and cancers via the modulation of nutrient-sensing receptors. Further studies are needed to explore the exact mechanisms underlying their effects to decide the risk/benefit ratio of sugar intake reduction via AS and LCS consumption.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edit Posta
- GI Unit, Department of Infectology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Bartok Bela Street 2-26, 4031 Debrecen, Hungary; (E.G.); (Z.B.)
| | - Istvan Fekete
- Institute of Food Technology, Faculty of Agricultural and Food Sciences and Environmental Management, University of Debrecen, Böszörményi út 138, 4032 Debrecen, Hungary; (I.F.); (L.S.)
| | - Eva Gyarmati
- GI Unit, Department of Infectology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Bartok Bela Street 2-26, 4031 Debrecen, Hungary; (E.G.); (Z.B.)
- Doctoral School of Clinical Immunology and Allergology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Nagyerdei Blvd. 98, 4032 Debrecen, Hungary
| | - László Stündl
- Institute of Food Technology, Faculty of Agricultural and Food Sciences and Environmental Management, University of Debrecen, Böszörményi út 138, 4032 Debrecen, Hungary; (I.F.); (L.S.)
| | - Eva Zold
- Department of Clinical Immunology, Institute of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Móricz Zsigmond Str. 22, 4032 Debrecen, Hungary;
| | - Zsolt Barta
- GI Unit, Department of Infectology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Bartok Bela Street 2-26, 4031 Debrecen, Hungary; (E.G.); (Z.B.)
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Hosseini A, Barlow GM, Leite G, Rashid M, Parodi G, Wang J, Morales W, Weitsman S, Rezaie A, Pimentel M, Mathur R. Consuming artificial sweeteners may alter the structure and function of duodenal microbial communities. iScience 2023; 26:108530. [PMID: 38125028 PMCID: PMC10730370 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2023.108530] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2023] [Revised: 10/23/2023] [Accepted: 11/20/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Studies using stool samples suggest that non-sugar sweetener (NSS) consumption affects gut microbiome composition. However, stool does not represent the entire gut. We analyzed the duodenal luminal microbiome in subjects consuming non-aspartame non-sugar sweeteners (NANS, N = 35), aspartame only (ASP, N = 9), and controls (CON, N = 55) and the stool microbiome in a subset (N = 40). Duodenal alpha diversity was decreased in NANS vs. CON. Duodenal relative abundance (RA) of Escherichia, Klebsiella, and Salmonella (all phylum Proteobacteria) was lower in both NANS and ASP vs. CON, whereas stool RA of Escherichia, Klebsiella, and Salmonella was increased in both NANS and ASP vs. CON. Predicted duodenal microbial metabolic pathways altered in NANS vs. CON included polysaccharides biosynthesis and D-galactose degradation, whereas cylindrospermopsin biosynthesis was significantly enriched in ASP vs. CON. These findings suggest that consuming non-sugar sweeteners may significantly alter microbiome composition and function in the metabolically active small bowel, with different alterations seen in stool.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ava Hosseini
- Medically Associated Science and Technology (MAST) Program, Cedars-Sinai, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Gillian M. Barlow
- Medically Associated Science and Technology (MAST) Program, Cedars-Sinai, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Gabriela Leite
- Medically Associated Science and Technology (MAST) Program, Cedars-Sinai, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Mohamad Rashid
- Medically Associated Science and Technology (MAST) Program, Cedars-Sinai, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Gonzalo Parodi
- Medically Associated Science and Technology (MAST) Program, Cedars-Sinai, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Jiajing Wang
- Medically Associated Science and Technology (MAST) Program, Cedars-Sinai, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Walter Morales
- Medically Associated Science and Technology (MAST) Program, Cedars-Sinai, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Stacy Weitsman
- Medically Associated Science and Technology (MAST) Program, Cedars-Sinai, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Ali Rezaie
- Medically Associated Science and Technology (MAST) Program, Cedars-Sinai, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Karsh Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Cedars-Sinai, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Mark Pimentel
- Medically Associated Science and Technology (MAST) Program, Cedars-Sinai, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Karsh Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Cedars-Sinai, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Ruchi Mathur
- Medically Associated Science and Technology (MAST) Program, Cedars-Sinai, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, Cedars-Sinai, Los Angeles, CA, USA
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Shil A, Zhang J, Chichger H. Investigating the use and awareness of artificial sweeteners among diabetic patients in Bangladesh. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0295272. [PMID: 38091359 PMCID: PMC10718416 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0295272] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2023] [Accepted: 11/19/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND As with many countries around the world, the incidence of diabetes in Bangladesh is increasing significantly. Whilst there is controversy in the field regarding the health impact of artificial sweeteners in Western communities, the link between sweetener consumption and awareness in Bangladesh has not been established. METHODS In the present study, 260 diabetic patients completed a questionnaire survey to investigate the use and awareness of sweeteners and how this links to demographics and potential co-morbidities. RESULTS Findings show that daily artificial sweetener consumption is significantly associated with hypertension but not other co-morbidities such as kidney disease or obesity. We further demonstrate that there is limited checking of artificial sweeteners in food or drink products by participants. the rurality of diabetic participants was found to significantly correlates with lower awareness of any health impact of artificial sweeteners. CONCLUSIONS The findings from this study demonstrate that there is a need to increase the awareness of artificial sweetener use in diabetic patients in Bangladesh. Combined with a more robust understanding of the health impact of artificial sweeteners, these findings suggest that there is potential to improve outcomes for diabetic patients by improving this awareness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aparna Shil
- Department of Botany, Jahangirnagar University, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Jufen Zhang
- Clinical Trial Unit, School of Medicine, Anglia Ruskin University, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Havovi Chichger
- Biomedical Research Group, School of Life Science, Anglia Ruskin University, Cambridge, United Kingdom
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Stachurska X, Mizielińska M, Ordon M, Nawrotek P. The use of plant extracts and bacteriophages as an alternative therapy approach in combatting bacterial infections: the study of lytic phages and Stevia rebaudiana. J Vet Res 2023; 67:545-557. [PMID: 38130461 PMCID: PMC10730388 DOI: 10.2478/jvetres-2023-0059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2023] [Accepted: 10/12/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction In the light of the problem of antibiotic resistance, the use of combined alternative therapies in combatting bacteria-related disorders has gained popularity. Bacteriophages are one element implemented in new combination therapy. Stevia rebaudiana is known to have antimicrobial activity and regarded as potentially having a synergistic effect with bacteriophages. Therefore, possible interactions of lytic bacteriophages (MS2, T4 and Phi6) with acetone and methanol S. rebaudiana extracts (SRa and SRm) in the bacterial environment were examined. Material and Methods The interactions were tested using a microdilution method, phage-extract co-incubation assay, static interaction (synography) and dynamic growth profile experiments in a bioreactor. Results The interactions of the tested factors in a static environment differed from those in a dynamic environment. Dynamic conditions altered the effect of the extracts in a concentration-dependent manner. How different the effect of the SRa extract was to that of the SRm extract on bacterial growth in a dynamic environment depended on the species of the phage and bacterial host. The greatest differences were observed for E. coli strains and their phages, whereas Pseudomonas syringae and the Phi6 phage reacted very similarly to both extracts. Differences also emerged for the same extract in different E. coli strains and their phages. Conclusion Every extract type should be tested on a case-by-case basis and experiment outcomes should not be generalised before gathering data. Moreover, many varied experiments should be performed, especially when examining such multifactorial mixtures. The tested mixtures could potentially be used in multidrug-resistant bacterial infection treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xymena Stachurska
- Department of Microbiology and Biotechnology, Faculty of Biotechnology and Animal Husbandry, Szczecin, Poland
| | - Małgorzata Mizielińska
- Center of Bioimmobilisation and Innovative Packaging Materials, Faculty of Food Sciences and Fisheries, West Pomeranian University of Technology in Szczecin, 70-311Szczecin, Poland
| | - Magdalena Ordon
- Center of Bioimmobilisation and Innovative Packaging Materials, Faculty of Food Sciences and Fisheries, West Pomeranian University of Technology in Szczecin, 70-311Szczecin, Poland
| | - Paweł Nawrotek
- Department of Microbiology and Biotechnology, Faculty of Biotechnology and Animal Husbandry, Szczecin, Poland
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Ghusn W, Naik R, Yibirin M. The Impact of Artificial Sweeteners on Human Health and Cancer Association: A Comprehensive Clinical Review. Cureus 2023; 15:e51299. [PMID: 38288206 PMCID: PMC10822749 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.51299] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/29/2023] [Indexed: 01/31/2024] Open
Abstract
Artificial sweeteners are sugar substitutes that provide high sweetening power associated with low accompanied calories. In this study, we aim to review the data on the use, benefits, side effects, and cancer risks of artificial sweeteners. We reviewed data in the PubMed, MEDLINE, Google Scholar, Embase, and Scopus databases to search for studies about artificial sweeteners from the inception of the database to July 20, 2023, published in the English language. We discuss systematic reviews and meta-analyses, randomized clinical trials, and observational cohort studies that address the use of artificial sweeteners and their effect on health. In our review, we show that artificial sweeteners have been shown to impact various functions of the gastrointestinal system. Other studies have demonstrated an association with neurologic symptoms such as headache and taste alteration. Moreover, recent studies have established an association between artificial sweeteners and cardiovascular risk and diabetes. Importantly, the majority of research data show no link between the use of artificial sweeteners and cancer risk. Although most studies show that there is no established link between these products and cancer risk, artificial sweeteners are associated with multiple diseases. Hence, more studies are needed to better characterize the effect of artificial sweeteners on human health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wissam Ghusn
- Internal Medicine, Boston Medical Center, Boston, USA
| | - Roopa Naik
- Medicine, Geisinger Commonwealth School of Medicine, Scranton, USA
- Internal Medicine/Hospital Medicine, Geisinger Health System, Wilkes Barre, USA
| | - Marcel Yibirin
- Internal Medicine, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, USA
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de Souza Lopes A, Elisabete Costa Antunes A, Idelça Aires Machado K, Sartoratto A, Cristina Teixeira Duarte M. The impact of antimicrobial food additives and sweeteners on the growth and metabolite production of gut bacteria. Folia Microbiol (Praha) 2023; 68:813-821. [PMID: 37480433 DOI: 10.1007/s12223-023-01076-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2022] [Accepted: 07/09/2023] [Indexed: 07/24/2023]
Abstract
Metabolic disorders caused by the imbalance of gut microbiota have been associated with the consumption of processed foods. Thus, this study aimed to evaluate the effects of antimicrobial food additives (benzoate, sorbate, nitrite, and bisulfite) and sweeteners (saccharin, stevia, sucralose, aspartame, and cyclamate) on the growth and metabolism of some gut and potentially probiotic bacterial species. The effects on the growth of Bifidobacterium longum, Enterococcus faecium, Lactobacillus acidophilus, and Lactococcus lactis subsp. lactis cultures were investigated using a turbidimetric test and by determining the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC). To evaluate the metabolic activity, the cultures were exposed to compounds with the highest antimicrobial activity, subjected to cultivation with inulin (1.5%), and analyzed by liquid chromatography for the production of short-chain fatty acids (acetate, propionate, and butyrate). The results showed that potassium sorbate (25 mg/mL), sodium bisulfite (0.7 mg/mL), sodium benzoate, and saccharin (5 mg/mL) presented greater antimicrobial activity against the studied species. L. lactis and L. acidophilus bacteria had reduced short-chain fatty acid production after exposure to saccharin and sorbate, and B. longum after exposure to sorbate, in comparison to controls (acetic acid reduction 1387 μg/mL and propionic 23 μg/mL p < 0.05).
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Affiliation(s)
- Aline de Souza Lopes
- Food Engineering and Technology Department, School of Food Engineering, Microbiological Analysis Laboratory, State University of Campinas (UNICAMP), Monteiro Lobato Street, 80, ZIP Code: 13083-862, Campinas, SP, Brazil.
| | | | - Karla Idelça Aires Machado
- Federal Institute of Education, Science and Technology of Piauí (IFPI), Portal Dos Cerrados, ZIP Code, PI-247, Uruçui, PI, 64860-000, Brazil
| | - Adilson Sartoratto
- Organic and Pharmaceutical Chemical Division, Pluridisciplinary Center for Chemical, Biological and Agricultural Research, State University of Campinas (UNICAMP), Alexandre Cazellato, 999, SP, 13148-218,, Paulinia, Brazil
| | - Marta Cristina Teixeira Duarte
- Microbiology Division, Pluridisciplinary Center for Chemical, Biological and Agricultural Research, State University of Campinas (UNICAMP), Alexandre Cazellato, 999, SP, ZIP code 13148-218,, Paulinia, Brazil
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Van den Abbeele P, Poppe J, Deyaert S, Laurie I, Otto Gravert TK, Abrahamsson A, Baudot A, Karnik K, Risso D. Low-no-calorie sweeteners exert marked compound-specific impact on the human gut microbiota ex vivo. Int J Food Sci Nutr 2023; 74:630-644. [PMID: 37537786 DOI: 10.1080/09637486.2023.2240037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2023] [Revised: 07/05/2023] [Accepted: 07/18/2023] [Indexed: 08/05/2023]
Abstract
Low-no-calorie sweeteners (LNCS) are used as sugar substitutes as part of strategies to reduce the risk of chronic diseases related to high sugar intake (e.g. type 2 diabetes (T2D)). This study investigated how a range of sweeteners [tagatose (TA)/maltitol (MA)/sorbitol (SO)/stevia (ST)/sucralose (SU)/acesulfame K (ACK)] impact the gut microbiota of T2D subjects and healthy human adults using the ex vivo SIFR® technology (n = 12). The cohort covered clinically relevant interpersonal and T2D-related differences. ACK/SU remained intact while not impacting microbial composition and metabolite production. In contrast, TA/SO and ST/MA were respectively readily and gradually fermented. ST and particularly TA/SO/MA increased bacterial density and SCFA production product-specifically: SO increased acetate (∼Bifidobacterium adolescentis), whilst MA/ST increased propionate (∼Parabacteroides distasonis). TA exerted low specificity as it increased butyrate for healthy subjects, yet propionate for T2D subjects. Overall, LNCS exerted highly compound-specific effects stressing that results obtained for one LNCS cannot be generalised to other LNCS.
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AL-Ishaq RK, Kubatka P, Büsselberg D. Sweeteners and the Gut Microbiome: Effects on Gastrointestinal Cancers. Nutrients 2023; 15:3675. [PMID: 37686707 PMCID: PMC10489909 DOI: 10.3390/nu15173675] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2023] [Revised: 08/16/2023] [Accepted: 08/17/2023] [Indexed: 09/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Worldwide, the demand for natural and synthetic sweeteners in the food industry as an alternative to refined sugar is increasing. This has prompted more research to be conducted to estimate its safety and effects on health. The gut microbiome is critical in metabolizing selected sweeteners which might affect overall health. Recently, more studies have evaluated the relationship between sweeteners and the gut microbiome. This review summarizes the current knowledge regarding the role played by the gut microbiome in metabolizing selected sweeteners. It also addresses the influence of the five selected sweeteners and their metabolites on GI cancer-related pathways. Overall, the observed positive effects of sweetener consumption on GI cancer pathways, such as apoptosis and cell cycle arrest, require further investigation in order to understand the underlying mechanism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raghad Khalid AL-Ishaq
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar, Education City, Qatar Foundation, Doha 24144, Qatar;
| | - Peter Kubatka
- Department of Medical Biology, Jessenius Faculty of Medicine, Comenius University in Bratislava, 036 01 Martin, Slovakia;
| | - Dietrich Büsselberg
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar, Education City, Qatar Foundation, Doha 24144, Qatar;
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Grilo MF, Taillie LS, Sylvetsky AC. The widespread presence of non-nutritive sweeteners challenges adherence to beverage guidance for children. Front Public Health 2023; 11:1221764. [PMID: 37663855 PMCID: PMC10472131 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1221764] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2023] [Accepted: 07/28/2023] [Indexed: 09/05/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Mariana Fagundes Grilo
- Department of Exercise and Nutrition Sciences, Milken Institute School of Public Health, The George Washington University, Washington, DC, United States
- Sumner M. Redstone Global Center for Prevention and Wellness, The George Washington University, Washington, DC, United States
| | - Lindsey Smith Taillie
- Carolina Population Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
| | - Allison C. Sylvetsky
- Department of Exercise and Nutrition Sciences, Milken Institute School of Public Health, The George Washington University, Washington, DC, United States
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Aslam H, Nadeem M, Shahid U, Ranjha MMAN, Khalid W, Qureshi TM, Nadeem MA, Asif A, Fatima M, Rahim MA, Awuchi CG. Physicochemical characteristics, antioxidant potential, and shelf stability of developed roselle-fig fruit bar. Food Sci Nutr 2023; 11:4219-4232. [PMID: 37457184 PMCID: PMC10345708 DOI: 10.1002/fsn3.3436] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2023] [Revised: 05/02/2023] [Accepted: 05/04/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Fruit bars are prepared by combining different ingredients which are wholesome and nutrient rich. The current study was designed to develop roselle-fig (different proportions) fruit bars and further investigate their physicochemical characteristics and antioxidant potential. Moreover, the prepared fruit bars were scrutinized for microbial and sensory characteristics to assess the appropriateness of ingredients during storage (up to 90 days). It was observed that there was gradual increase in moisture content with the passage of time, while ash, fat, fiber, and protein contents did not change significantly during storage. The pH and total soluble solid contents of these fruit bars during storage were 3.54-4.07 and 1.71-1.86 Brix, respectively. According to the mean values for sensory evaluation, T 2 was preferred over other treatments. The bars received an acceptable sensory evaluation, demonstrating that they were suitable for 90 days of storage. Phytochemical quantities significantly increased in subsequent treatments, but decreased during storage in all the treatments. Similar trend was observed regarding total antioxidant and DPPH radical scavenging activities. The mineral contents increased significantly among the treatments. The microbial analysis of fruit bars exposed that the fruit were microbiologically safe. Hence, on the basis of the results obtained in this study, it may be concluded that the developed roselle-fig fruit bar would be acceptable and nutritious regarding physicochemical characteristics, microbiological quality, and antioxidant potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hunaina Aslam
- Institute of Food Science and NutritionUniversity of SargodhaSargodhaPakistan
| | - Muhammad Nadeem
- Institute of Food Science and NutritionUniversity of SargodhaSargodhaPakistan
| | - Urooj Shahid
- Government General HospitalGhulam Muhammad AbadFaisalabadPakistan
| | | | - Waseem Khalid
- University Institute of Food Science and TechnologyThe University of LahoreLahorePakistan
| | - Tahir Mahmood Qureshi
- Department of Food SciencesCholistan University of Veterinary and Animal SciencesBahawalpurPakistan
| | - Muhammad Ather Nadeem
- Department of Agronomy, College of AgricultureUniversity of SargodhaSargodhaPakistan
| | - Alaiha Asif
- Institute of Food Science and NutritionBahauddin Zakariya UniversityMultanPakistan
| | - Mehak Fatima
- Institute of Food Science and NutritionUniversity of SargodhaSargodhaPakistan
| | - Muhammad Abdul Rahim
- Department of Food Science, Faculty of Life SciencesGovernment College UniversityFaisalabadPunjabPakistan
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Subramaniam S, Kamath S, Ariaee A, Prestidge C, Joyce P. The impact of common pharmaceutical excipients on the gut microbiota. Expert Opin Drug Deliv 2023; 20:1297-1314. [PMID: 37307224 DOI: 10.1080/17425247.2023.2223937] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2023] [Accepted: 06/07/2023] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Increasing attention is being afforded to understanding the bidirectional relationships that exist between oral medications and the gut microbiota, in an attempt to optimize pharmacokinetic performance and mitigate unwanted side effects. While a wealth of research has investigated the direct impact of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) on the gut microbiota, the interactions between inactive pharmaceutical ingredients (i.e. excipients) and the gut microbiota are commonly overlooked, despite excipients typically representing over 90% of the final dosage form. AREAS COVERED Known excipient-gut microbiota interactions for various classes of inactive pharmaceutical ingredients, including solubilizing agents, binders, fillers, sweeteners, and color additives, are reviewed in detail. EXPERT OPINION Clear evidence indicates that orally administered pharmaceutical excipients directly interact with gut microbes and can either positively or negatively impact gut microbiota diversity and composition. However, these relationships and mechanisms are commonly overlooked during drug formulation, despite the potential for excipient-microbiota interactions to alter drug pharmacokinetics and interfere with host metabolic health. The insights derived from this review will inform pharmaceutical scientists with the necessary design considerations for mitigating potential adverse pharmacomicrobiomic interactions when formulating oral dosage forms, ultimately providing clear avenues for improving therapeutic safety and efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Santhni Subramaniam
- UniSA Clinical & Health Sciences, University of South Australia, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Srinivas Kamath
- UniSA Clinical & Health Sciences, University of South Australia, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Amin Ariaee
- UniSA Clinical & Health Sciences, University of South Australia, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Clive Prestidge
- UniSA Clinical & Health Sciences, University of South Australia, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Paul Joyce
- UniSA Clinical & Health Sciences, University of South Australia, Adelaide, Australia
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Alharthi SAS, Alaisayi KHA, Alalawi LYS, Alamri ROS, Abu-Elfotuh K, Alenazi TS, Amirthalingam P, Albariqi HAH, Mohammed AA, Alsubayti N, Hamdan AME, Kozman MR. The consumption pattern and perception of using artificial sweeteners among the public in Tabuk region, Saudi Arabia. Front Public Health 2023; 11:1166868. [PMID: 37427264 PMCID: PMC10323410 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1166868] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2023] [Accepted: 05/25/2023] [Indexed: 07/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Obesity and weight gain have become major problems worldwide. Thus, several forms of alternative intense sweeteners are extensively used, offering a non-caloric sweet taste. To the best of our knowledge, no research has studied either the consumption pattern or the perception of using artificial sweeteners in Saudi Arabia. Objectives Our research aimed to study the usage pattern of such artificial sweeteners in the Tabuk region and estimate the knowledge of and attitudes toward their usage among the population. Methods A cross-sectional study promoted on multiple social media platforms and face-to-face interviews in different malls and hospitals in the Tabuk region. We grouped the participants into two major groups: the users and the non-users of artificial sweeteners. Each group has been subdivided into a healthy subgroup and those with a medical record subgroup. Participants' characteristics and their choice of sweeteners were analyzed using bivariate analysis. The age, gender, and education level of the participants were adjusted using binary logistic regression in order to adjust for potential confounders. Results A total of 2,760 participants were included in our study. We found that more than 59% of the participants that were over 45 years old were non-hospitalized non-hospitalized diseased irrespective of their usage of artificial sweeteners. Furthermore, females, graduates, diabetics were significantly high irrespective of their subgroup. Moreover, Steviana® is the most commonly used artificial sweetener. In addition, healthy participants showed a greater perception of the usage and adverse effects of artificial sweeteners. Furthermore, bivariate analysis using logistic regression revealed significant associations (p < 0.05) with confounders such as gender, age, and education level. Conclusion Educational programs and nutritional advice for the safe consumption and the daily permissible doses of artificial sweeteners are essential and should be directed specifically at females.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Karema Abu-Elfotuh
- Clinical Pharmacy Department, Faculty of Pharmacy (Girls), Al-Azhar University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Tahani S. Alenazi
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, King Khalid University, Abha, Saudi Arabia
| | | | | | - Asmaa A. Mohammed
- Pharmacology and Toxicology Department, Faculty of Pharmacy (Girls), Al-Azhar University, Cairo, Egypt
| | | | - Ahmed M. E. Hamdan
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Tabuk, Tabuk, Saudi Arabia
| | - Magy R. Kozman
- Clinical Pharmacy Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Misr University for Science and Technology, Giza, Egypt
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Knutsson L, Xu X, van Zijl PCM, Chan KWY. Imaging of sugar-based contrast agents using their hydroxyl proton exchange properties. NMR IN BIOMEDICINE 2023; 36:e4784. [PMID: 35665547 PMCID: PMC9719573 DOI: 10.1002/nbm.4784] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2022] [Revised: 05/30/2022] [Accepted: 06/03/2022] [Indexed: 05/13/2023]
Abstract
The ability of CEST MRI to detect the presence of millimolar concentrations of non-metallic contrast agents has made it possible to study, non-invasively, important biological molecules such as proteins and sugars, as well as drugs already approved for clinical use. Here, we review efforts to use sugar and sugar polymers as exogenous contrast agents, which is possible based on the exchange of their hydroxyl protons with water protons. While this capability has raised early enthusiasm, for instance about the possibility of imaging D-glucose metabolism with MRI in a way analogous to PET, experience over the past decade has shown that this is not trivial. On the other hand, many studies have confirmed the possibility of imaging a large variety of sugar analogues, each with potentially interesting applications to assess tissue physiology. Some promising applications are the study of (i) sugar delivery and transport to assess blood-brain barrier integrity and (ii) sugar uptake by cells for their characterization (e.g., cancer versus healthy), as well as (iii) clearance of sugars to assess tissue drainage-for instance, through the glymphatic system. To judge these opportunities and their challenges, especially in the clinic, it is necessary to understand the technical aspects of detecting the presence of rapidly exchanging protons through the water signal in MRI, especially as a function of magnetic field strength. We expect that novel approaches in terms of MRI detection (both saturation transfer and relaxation based), MRI data analysis, and sugar design will push this young field forward in the next decade.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linda Knutsson
- Department of Medical Radiation Physics, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
- Russell H. Morgan Department of Radiology and Radiological Science, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine
- F.M. Kirby Research Center for Functional Brain Imaging, Kennedy Krieger Institute, Baltimore, US
| | - Xiang Xu
- Russell H. Morgan Department of Radiology and Radiological Science, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine
- BioMedical Engineering and Imaging Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, United States
| | - Peter CM van Zijl
- Russell H. Morgan Department of Radiology and Radiological Science, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine
- F.M. Kirby Research Center for Functional Brain Imaging, Kennedy Krieger Institute, Baltimore, US
| | - Kannie WY Chan
- Russell H. Morgan Department of Radiology and Radiological Science, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
- Hong Kong Centre for Cerebro-Cardiovascular Health Engineering, Hong Kong, China
- Tung Biomedical Sciences Centre, City University of Hong Kong
- City University of Hong Kong Shenzhen Institute, Shenzhen, China
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Saraiva A, Carrascosa C, Ramos F, Raheem D, Pedreiro S, Vega A, Raposo A. Brazzein and Monellin: Chemical Analysis, Food Industry Applications, Safety and Quality Control, Nutritional Profile and Health Impacts. Foods 2023; 12:foods12101943. [PMID: 37238762 DOI: 10.3390/foods12101943] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2023] [Revised: 04/30/2023] [Accepted: 05/06/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Recently, customers have been keener to buy products manufactured using all-natural ingredients with positive health properties, but without losing flavor. In this regard, the objective of the current study is to review the consumption of brazzein and monellin, their nutritional profiles and health effects, and their potential applications in the food industry. This poses challenges with sustainability and important quality and safety indicators, as well as the chemical processes used to determine them. To better understand the utilization of brazzein and monellin, the chemical analysis of these two natural sweet proteins was also reviewed by placing particular emphasis on their extraction methods, purification and structural characterization. Protein engineering is considered a means to improve the thermal stability of brazzein and monellin to enhance their application in food processing, especially where high temperatures are applied. When the quality and safety of these sweet proteins are well-investigated and the approval from safety authorities is secured, the market for brazzein and monellin as food ingredient substitutes for free sugar will be guaranteed in the future. Ultimately, the review on these two natural peptide sweeteners increases the body of knowledge on alleviating problems of obesity, diabetes and other non-communicable diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ariana Saraiva
- Department of Animal Pathology and Production, Bromatology and Food Technology, Faculty of Veterinary, Universidad de Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Trasmontaña s/n, 35413 Arucas, Spain
| | - Conrado Carrascosa
- Department of Animal Pathology and Production, Bromatology and Food Technology, Faculty of Veterinary, Universidad de Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Trasmontaña s/n, 35413 Arucas, Spain
| | - Fernando Ramos
- Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, Azinhaga de Santa Comba, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal
- Associated Laboratory for Green Chemistry (LAQV) of the Network of Chemistry and Technology (REQUIMTE), Rua D. Manuel II, Apartado 55142, 4051-401 Porto, Portugal
| | - Dele Raheem
- Arctic Centre, University of Lapland, 96101 Rovaniemi, Finland
| | - Sónia Pedreiro
- Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, Azinhaga de Santa Comba, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal
- Associated Laboratory for Green Chemistry (LAQV) of the Network of Chemistry and Technology (REQUIMTE), Rua D. Manuel II, Apartado 55142, 4051-401 Porto, Portugal
| | - Angelo Vega
- Department of Animal Pathology and Production, Bromatology and Food Technology, Faculty of Veterinary, Universidad de Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Trasmontaña s/n, 35413 Arucas, Spain
| | - António Raposo
- CBIOS (Research Center for Biosciences and Health Technologies), Universidade Lusófona de Humanidades e Tecnologias, Campo Grande 376, 1749-024 Lisboa, Portugal
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Russell C, Baker P, Grimes C, Lindberg R, Lawrence MA. Global trends in added sugars and non-nutritive sweetener use in the packaged food supply: drivers and implications for public health. Public Health Nutr 2023; 26:952-964. [PMID: 35899782 PMCID: PMC10346066 DOI: 10.1017/s1368980022001598] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2022] [Revised: 06/22/2022] [Accepted: 07/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The health implications of excessive added sugar intakes have led to national policy actions to limit their consumption. Subsequently, non-nutritive sweeteners (NNS) may be used to maintain product sweetness. We aimed to assess trends in quantities of added sugars and NNS sold in packaged food and beverages worldwide, and the association between these trends and the number of national policy actions across regions to reduce added sugar consumption. DESIGN (i) Longitudinal analysis of Euromonitor sales data (2007-2019) to assess the quantity of added sugars (kg) and NNS (g) sold in packaged foods and beverages globally, across regions, and across country income categories; (ii) policy-mapping of policy actions targeting added sugar consumption globally from the NOURISHING database; and (iii) Spearman's correlations to assess the association between national policy actions across regions and changes in added sugar/NNS sales. SETTING Worldwide. PARTICIPANTS Not applicable. RESULTS Per capita volumes of NNS from beverage sales increased globally (36 %). Added sugars from beverage sales decreased in high-income countries (22 %) but increased in upper-middle-income countries (UMIC) and lower-middle-income countries (LMIC) (13-40 %). Added sugars from packaged food sales increased globally (9 %). Regions with more policy actions had a significant increase in NNS quantities from beverage sales (r = 0·68, P = 0·04). The sweetness of the packaged food supply (the sweetness of each NNS and added sugar, relative to sucrose, multiplied by sales volume) increased over time. CONCLUSIONS The increasing use of NNS to sweeten beverages globally, and in packaged food in UMIC and LMIC, may have health and dietary implications in the future. Their use as a substitute for added sugar should be considered in public health nutrition policymaking.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cherie Russell
- School of Exercise and Nutrition Sciences, Deakin University, 221 Burwood Highway, Geelong, Australia
| | - Phillip Baker
- School of Exercise and Nutrition Sciences, Deakin University, 221 Burwood Highway, Geelong, Australia
- Institute for Physical Activity and Nutrition, Deakin University, Geelong, Australia
| | - Carley Grimes
- School of Exercise and Nutrition Sciences, Deakin University, 221 Burwood Highway, Geelong, Australia
- Institute for Physical Activity and Nutrition, Deakin University, Geelong, Australia
| | - Rebecca Lindberg
- School of Exercise and Nutrition Sciences, Deakin University, 221 Burwood Highway, Geelong, Australia
- Institute for Physical Activity and Nutrition, Deakin University, Geelong, Australia
| | - Mark A Lawrence
- School of Exercise and Nutrition Sciences, Deakin University, 221 Burwood Highway, Geelong, Australia
- Institute for Physical Activity and Nutrition, Deakin University, Geelong, Australia
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Ba F, Ji X, Huang S, Zhang Y, Liu WQ, Liu Y, Ling S, Li J. Engineering Escherichia coli to Utilize Erythritol as Sole Carbon Source. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2023; 10:e2207008. [PMID: 36938858 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202207008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2022] [Revised: 02/16/2023] [Indexed: 05/18/2023]
Abstract
Erythritol, one of the natural sugar alcohols, is widely used as a sugar substitute sweetener in food industries. Humans themselves are not able to catabolize erythritol and their gut microbes lack related catabolic pathways either to metabolize erythritol. Here, Escherichia coli (E. coli) is engineered to utilize erythritol as sole carbon source aiming for defined applications. First, the erythritol metabolic gene cluster is isolated and the erythritol-binding transcriptional repressor and its DNA-binding site are experimentally characterized. Transcriptome analysis suggests that carbohydrate metabolism-related genes in the engineered E. coli are overall upregulated. In particular, the enzymes of transaldolase (talA and talB) and transketolase (tktA and tktB) are notably overexpressed (e.g., the expression of tktB is improved by nearly sixfold). By overexpression of the four genes, cell growth can be increased as high as three times compared to the cell cultivation without overexpression. Finally, engineered E. coli strains can be used as a living detector to distinguish erythritol-containing soda soft drinks and can grow in the simulated intestinal fluid supplemented with erythritol. This work is expected to inspire the engineering of more hosts to respond and utilize erythritol for broad applications in metabolic engineering, synthetic biology, and biomedical engineering.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fang Ba
- School of Physical Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, 201210, P. R. China
| | - Xiangyang Ji
- School of Physical Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, 201210, P. R. China
| | - Shuhui Huang
- School of Physical Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, 201210, P. R. China
| | - Yufei Zhang
- School of Physical Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, 201210, P. R. China
| | - Wan-Qiu Liu
- School of Physical Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, 201210, P. R. China
| | - Yifan Liu
- School of Physical Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, 201210, P. R. China
| | - Shengjie Ling
- School of Physical Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, 201210, P. R. China
| | - Jian Li
- School of Physical Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, 201210, P. R. China
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Conz A, Salmona M, Diomede L. Effect of Non-Nutritive Sweeteners on the Gut Microbiota. Nutrients 2023; 15:nu15081869. [PMID: 37111090 PMCID: PMC10144565 DOI: 10.3390/nu15081869] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2023] [Revised: 04/05/2023] [Accepted: 04/11/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The human gut microbiota, a complex community of microorganisms living in the digestive tract, consists of more than 1500 species distributed in more than 50 different phyla, with 99% of bacteria coming from about 30-40 species. The colon alone, which contains the largest population of the diverse human microbiota, can harbor up to 100 trillion bacteria. The gut microbiota is essential in maintaining normal gut physiology and health. Therefore, its disruption in humans is often associated with various pathological conditions. Different factors can influence the composition and function of the gut microbiota, including host genetics, age, antibiotic treatments, environment, and diet. The diet has a marked effect, impacting the gut microbiota composition, beneficially or detrimentally, by altering some bacterial species and adjusting the metabolites produced in the gut environment. With the widespread use of non-nutritive sweeteners (NNS) in the diet, recent investigations have focused on their effect on the gut microbiota as a mediator of the potential impact generated by gastrointestinal-related disturbances, such as insulin resistance, obesity, and inflammation. We summarized the results from pre-clinical and clinical studies published over the last ten years that examined the single effects of the most consumed NNS: aspartame, acesulfame-K, sucralose, and saccharin. Pre-clinical studies have given conflicting results for various reasons, including the administration method and the differences in metabolism of the same NNS among the different animal species. A dysbiotic effect of NNS was observed in some human trials, but many other randomized controlled trials reported a lack of significant impacts on gut microbiota composition. These studies differed in the number of subjects involved, their dietary habits, and their lifestyle; all factors related to the baseline composition of gut microbiota and their response to NNS. The scientific community still has no unanimous consensus on the appropriate outcomes and biomarkers that can accurately define the effects of NNS on the gut microbiota.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Conz
- Department of Molecular Biochemistry and Pharmacology, Istituto di Ricerche Farmacologiche Mario Negri IRCCS, Via Mario Negri 2, 20156 Milano, Italy
| | - Mario Salmona
- Department of Molecular Biochemistry and Pharmacology, Istituto di Ricerche Farmacologiche Mario Negri IRCCS, Via Mario Negri 2, 20156 Milano, Italy
| | - Luisa Diomede
- Department of Molecular Biochemistry and Pharmacology, Istituto di Ricerche Farmacologiche Mario Negri IRCCS, Via Mario Negri 2, 20156 Milano, Italy
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Munteanu C, Schwartz B. The Effect of Bioactive Aliment Compounds and Micronutrients on Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease. Antioxidants (Basel) 2023; 12:antiox12040903. [PMID: 37107278 PMCID: PMC10136128 DOI: 10.3390/antiox12040903] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2023] [Revised: 03/28/2023] [Accepted: 04/08/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
In the current review, we focused on identifying aliment compounds and micronutrients, as well as addressed promising bioactive nutrients that may interfere with NAFLD advance and ultimately affect this disease progress. In this regard, we targeted: 1. Potential bioactive nutrients that may interfere with NAFLD, specifically dark chocolate, cocoa butter, and peanut butter which may be involved in decreasing cholesterol concentrations. 2. The role of sweeteners used in coffee and other frequent beverages; in this sense, stevia has proven to be adequate for improving carbohydrate metabolism, liver steatosis, and liver fibrosis. 3. Additional compounds were shown to exert a beneficial action on NAFLD, namely glutathione, soy lecithin, silymarin, Aquamin, and cannabinoids which were shown to lower the serum concentration of triglycerides. 4. The effects of micronutrients, especially vitamins, on NAFLD. Even if most studies demonstrate the beneficial role of vitamins in this pathology, there are exceptions. 5. We provide information regarding the modulation of the activity of some enzymes related to NAFLD and their effect on this disease. We conclude that NAFLD can be prevented or improved by different factors through their involvement in the signaling, genetic, and biochemical pathways that underlie NAFLD. Therefore, exposing this vast knowledge to the public is particularly important.
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Affiliation(s)
- Camelia Munteanu
- Department of Plant Culture, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine, 400372 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Betty Schwartz
- The Institute of Biochemistry, Food Science and Nutrition, The School of Nutritional Sciences, Robert H. Smith Faculty of Agriculture, Food and Environment, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Rehovot 76100, Israel
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Miller B, Branscum P. Evaluating the Association Between Artificial Sweetener Intake and Indicators of Stress and Anxiety. COMMUNITY HEALTH EQUITY RESEARCH & POLICY 2023; 43:339-342. [PMID: 34080916 DOI: 10.1177/0272684x211022150] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to evaluate the association between non-nutritive sweetener (NNS) consumption and stress and anxiety, among a sample of college students. Two-hundred and twenty-seven students from a large mid-western university participated in this cross-sectional study. Students completed an online survey that evaluated NNS using a validated food frequency questionnaire. Stress and anxiety were evaluated using previously validated instruments. Most students reported very low/low/average concern for stress (63.9%), and had low/moderate anxiety (82.3%). Participants experiencing high and very high levels of stress had significantly higher NNS consumption compared to those with a very low and low risk, and concern for stress (p < .046; d = 0.28). There was no difference however for NNS intake and anxiety. Reduction of artificial sweetener intake may be associated with stress levels among college students. However, more research is needed to examine any causal relationship between artificial sweetener intake and stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin Miller
- Department of Kinesiology and Health, Miami University, Oxford, Ohio, United States
| | - Paul Branscum
- Department of Kinesiology and Health, Miami University, Oxford, Ohio, United States
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Dogra SK, Dardinier A, Mainardi F, Siegwald L, Bartova S, Le Roy C, Chou CJ. Application of Computational Data Modeling to a Large-Scale Population Cohort Assists the Discovery of Inositol as a Strain-Specific Substrate for Faecalibacterium prausnitzii. Nutrients 2023; 15:nu15061311. [PMID: 36986043 PMCID: PMC10051675 DOI: 10.3390/nu15061311] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2023] [Revised: 02/24/2023] [Accepted: 03/01/2023] [Indexed: 03/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Faecalibacterium prausnitzii (F. prausnitzii) is a bacterial taxon in the human gut with anti-inflammatory properties, and this may contribute to the beneficial effects of healthy eating habits. However, little is known about the nutrients that enhance the growth of F. prausnitzii other than simple sugars and fibers. Here, we combined dietary and microbiome data from the American Gut Project (AGP) to identify nutrients that may be linked to the relative abundance of F. prausnitzii. Using a machine learning approach in combination with univariate analyses, we identified that sugar alcohols, carbocyclic sugar, and vitamins may contribute to F. prausnitzii growth. We next explored the effects of these nutrients on the growth of two F. prausnitzii strains in vitro and observed robust and strain-dependent growth patterns on sorbitol and inositol, respectively. In the context of a complex community using in vitro fermentation, neither inositol alone nor in combinations with vitamin B exerted a significant growth-promoting effect on F. prausnitzii, partly due to high variability among the fecal microbiota community from four healthy donors. However, the fecal communities that showed an increase in F. prausnitzii on inulin also responded with at least 60% more F. prausnitzii on any of inositol containing media than control. Future nutritional studies aiming to increase the relative abundance of F. prausnitzii should explore a personalized approach accounting for strain-level genetic variations and community-level microbiome composition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shaillay Kumar Dogra
- Department of Gastrointestinal Health, Nestlé Institute of Health Sciences, Nestlé Research, CH-1000 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Adrien Dardinier
- Department of Gastrointestinal Health, Nestlé Institute of Health Sciences, Nestlé Research, CH-1000 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Fabio Mainardi
- Department of Data Sciences and Precision Nutrition, Nestlé Institute of Health Sciences, Nestlé Research, CH-1000 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Léa Siegwald
- Department of Data Sciences and Precision Nutrition, Nestlé Institute of Health Sciences, Nestlé Research, CH-1000 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Simona Bartova
- Department of Bioanalytics, Nestlé Institute of Food Safety and Analytical Sciences, Nestlé Research, CH-1000 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Caroline Le Roy
- Department of Gastrointestinal Health, Nestlé Institute of Health Sciences, Nestlé Research, CH-1000 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Chieh Jason Chou
- Department of Gastrointestinal Health, Nestlé Institute of Health Sciences, Nestlé Research, CH-1000 Lausanne, Switzerland
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50
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Chapple CI, Russell CG, Burnett AJ, Woods JL. Sports foods are not all they shake up to be. An audit of formulated supplementary sports food products and packaging in Australian retail environments. Front Nutr 2023; 10:1042049. [PMID: 36866048 PMCID: PMC9972582 DOI: 10.3389/fnut.2023.1042049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2022] [Accepted: 01/24/2023] [Indexed: 02/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective To determine store availability, total number of products, and types of Formulated Supplementary Sports Foods in Australia, along with their stated nutrition content, sweeteners added, total number, and type of claims displayed on the packaging. Design A cross-sectional, visual product audit of mainstream retailers. Setting Supermarkets, pharmacies, health food stores, and gym/fitness centres. Results A total of 558 products were captured in the audit, 275 of which displayed the correct mandatory packaging attributes. Three categories of products were identified, based on the dominant nutrient. Only 184 products appeared to display the correct energy value based on the listed macronutrient content (protein, fat, carbohydrate, dietary fibre). The stated nutrient content was highly variable across all product subcategories. Nineteen different sweeteners were identified, with most foods containing only one (38.2%) or two (34.9%) types. The predominant sweetener was stevia glycosides. Packages displayed multiple claims, with a maximum of 67 and minimum of 2 claims. Nutrition content claims were most frequently displayed (on 98.5% of products). Claims included regulated, minimally regulated and marketing statements. Conclusion Sports food consumers should be provided with accurate and detailed on pack nutrition information, to ensure informed choices are made. However, this audit showed multiple products which did not conform to current standards, appeared to provide inaccurate nutrition information, contained multiple sweeteners, and displayed an overwhelming number of on-pack claims. The increase in sales, availability, and products available in mainstream retail environments, could be impacting both intended consumers (athletes), and general non-athlete population. The results indicate underperformance in manufacturing practices which preference marketing over quality and stronger regulatory approaches are needed to protect consumer health and safety, and to prevent misleading consumers.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Catherine G. Russell
- School of Exercise and Nutrition Sciences, Institute for Physical Activity and Nutrition, Deakin University, Geelong, VIC, Australia
| | - Alissa J. Burnett
- School of Exercise and Nutrition Sciences, Institute for Physical Activity and Nutrition, Deakin University, Geelong, VIC, Australia
| | - Julie L. Woods
- School of Exercise and Nutrition Sciences, Institute for Physical Activity and Nutrition, Deakin University, Geelong, VIC, Australia
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