Consumption Of Non-nutritive Sweeteners Research Articles

Host or the Hosted? Effects of Non-Nutritive Sweeteners on Intestinal and Microbial Mechanisms of Glycemic Control

Background/Objective: High habitual consumption of non-nutritive sweeteners (NNS) is linked to increased incident type 2 diabetes, with emerging clinical evidence that effects on gut microbiota may, in part, drive this risk. However, the precise contribution of the effects of NNS on gut microbiota to host glycemic responses remains unclear. Methods: Ten-week-old male C57BL/6 mice (N = 10 per group) were randomized to drinking water with or without combined NNS (sucralose 1.5 mg/mL plus acesulfame-K 2.5 mg/mL) and with or without antibiotics to deplete gut microbiota (ABX, 1 mg/mL ampicillin and neomycin) over two weeks. Oral glucose tolerance tests (OGTT, 2 g/kg) were conducted on days −1 and 12. On day 14, mice underwent a jejunal infusion of glucose (300 mg) with 3-O-methyl glucose (30 mg, 3-OMG, a marker of glucose absorption) in 1.5 mL for 30 min, followed by blood collection and bioassays. Data were analyzed using ANOVA with NNS and ABX as factors. Results: Jejunal glucose absorption was augmented in NNS+ mice relative to NNS− (31%; 3-OMG T30; p ≤ 0.05) independent of ABX. ABX attenuated OGTT responses independent of NNS supplementation (−35%; incremental AUC, p ≤ 0.001). NNS+ ABX+ mice had augmented GLP-1 responses to intrajejunal glucose relative to other groups (69–108%, p < 0.05). Conclusions: These findings demonstrate that sub-acute NNS supplementation augments glucose absorption independent of gut microbiota in mice but does not disrupt glycemic responses. Antibiotic depletion of gut microbiota markedly increased glucose tolerance in mice, which may involve the actions of GLP-1.

Early-Life Gut Microbiota: A Possible Link Between Maternal Exposure to Non-Nutritive Sweeteners and Metabolic Syndrome in Offspring.

Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is recognized as a group of metabolic abnormalities, characterized by clustered interconnected traits that elevate the risks of obesity, cardiovascular and atherosclerotic diseases, hyperlipidemia, and type 2 diabetes mellitus. Non-nutritive sweeteners (NNS) are commonly consumed by those with imbalanced calorie intake, especially in the perinatal period. In the past, accumulating evidence showed the transgenerational and mediated roles of human microbiota in the development of early-life MetS. Maternal exposure to NNS has been recognized as a risk factor for filial metabolic disturbance through various mechanisms, among which gut microbiota and derived metabolites function as nodes linking NNS and MetS in early life. Despite the widespread consumption of NNS, there remain growing concerns about their transgenerational impact on metabolic health. There is growing evidence of NNS being implicated in the development of metabolic abnormalities. Intricate complexities exist and a comprehensive understanding of how the gut microbiota interacts with mechanisms related to maternal NNS intake and disrupts metabolic homeostasis of offspring is critical to realize its full potential in preventing early-life MetS. This review aims to elucidate the effects of early-life gut microbiota and links to maternal NNS exposure and imbalanced offspring metabolic homeostasis and discusses potential perspectives and challenges, which may provide enlightenment and understanding into optimal perinatal nutritional management.

Association between consumption of non-nutritive sweeteners and gestational diabetes mellitus in Chilean pregnant women: A secondary data analysis of the CHiMINCs-II cohort

ObjectiveTo evaluate the association between consumed non-nutritive sweeteners (NNS) and gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) in a cohort of pregnant women from Santiago, Chile. MethodsThis secondary data analysis of a cohort.involved 1,472 pregnant women from the Chilean Maternal-Infant Cohort Study-II (CHiMINCs-II). These women received care at primary health care centers in Puente Alto county, South-Eastern Metropolitan Health Service of Santiago, Chile. NNS consumption was estimated using 24-h dietary recalls and linked to the packaged foods nutrition facts panel. Plasma glucose values were extracted from clinical records. GDM was defined according to national criteria: 1) fasting plasma glucose (FPG) ≥100 and <126 mg/dL at the first antenatal visit; 2) FPG ≥100 mg/dL or 2-hour plasma glucose ≥140 mg/dL in the 75 g oral glucose tolerance test at 24–28 weeks. Cases with a GDM diagnosis in their medical records were also considered regardless of test results. The association between each NNS and GDM was assessed using logistic regression models. ResultsA total of 77.8% of the participants consumed NNS. The most consumed was sucralose (66%), followed by acesulfame-K (43.6%), and steviol glycosides (41.1%). Beverages (82%), dairy (12.4%) and candy products (4.4%) were the primary dietary sources of NNS. The GDM incidence was 18.9%, higher among consumers of any NNS compared to non-consumers (20.3% vs. 14.2%, p < 0.05). The adjusted model showed a significant association between the consumption of any NNS and sucralose and the risk of GDM (OR for any NNS = 1.58; 95% CI: 1.10–2.26; P = 0.014; OR sucralose = 1.44; 95% CI 1.06–1.95; P = 0.020). ConclusionsThe consumption of NNS, particularly sucralose, is associated with an increased risk of GDM in pregnant women. Further studies are essential to validate these results in other contexts and to guide future recommendations for healthier dietary practices among pregnant populations.

Long-term metabolic effects of non-nutritive sweeteners

ObjectiveExcessive consumption of added sugars has been linked to the rise in obesity and associated metabolic abnormalities. Non-nutritive sweeteners (NNSs) offer a potential solution to reduce sugar intake, yet their metabolic safety remains debated. This study aimed to systematically assess the long-term metabolic effects of commonly used NNSs under both normal and obesogenic conditions. MethodsTo ensure consistent sweetness level and controlling for the acceptable daily intake (ADI), eight weeks old C57BL/6 male mice were administered with acesulfame K (ace K, 535.25 mg/L), aspartame (411.75 mg/L), sucralose (179.5 mg/L), saccharin (80 mg/L), or steviol glycoside (Reb M, 536.25 mg/L) in the drinking water, on the background of either regular or high-fat diets (in high fat diet 60% of calories from fat). Water or fructose-sweetened water (82.3.gr/L), were used as controls. Anthropometric and metabolic parameters, as well as microbiome composition, were analyzed following 20-weeks of exposure. ResultsUnder a regular chow diet, chronic NNS consumption did not significantly affect body weight, fat mass, or glucose metabolism as compared to water consumption, with aspartame demonstrating decreased glucose tolerance. In diet-induced obesity, NNS exposure did not increase body weight or alter food intake. Exposure to sucralose and Reb M led to improved insulin sensitivity and decreased weight gain. Reb M specifically was associated with increased prevalence of colonic Lachnospiracea bacteria. ConclusionsLong-term consumption of commonly used NNSs does not induce adverse metabolic effects, with Reb M demonstrating a mild improvement in metabolic abnormalities. These findings provide valuable insights into the metabolic impact of different NNSs, aiding in the development of strategies to combat obesity and related metabolic disorders.

Associations Between Non-nutritive Sweetener Consumption, Metabolic Risk Factors, and Inflammatory Biomarkers Among U.S. Adults

Associations Between Non-nutritive Sweetener Consumption, Metabolic Risk Factors, and Inflammatory Biomarkers Among U.S. Adults

Non-nutritive Sweeteners: Weight Loss or Weight Gain?

The consumption of non-nutritive sweeteners (NNS) is on the rise among different populations. In parallel, the debate about their potential health benefits and risks remains inconclusive. Numerous published studies elucidate the impact of NNS on general health, weight control, and the risk of certain diseases. However, no definitive conclusions regarding the effect of chronic NNS use on weight have been reached in humans. This review summarizes current evidence related to the biological role of NNS and their subsequent effects on weight. The mechanisms of action through which NNS impact weight are discussed, including their effect on sweet taste receptors, cognition, metabolic and endocrine functions, intestinal microbiota, and adiposity. Conflicting evidence is hindering the formulation of precise recommendations, but the evidence opposing the use of NNS remains weak, and the ultimate impact on weight largely relies on several other behavioral patterns.

Assessment of Knowledge and Perceptions of Pakistani Adults about Non-nutritive Sweeteners

Non-nutritive sweeteners are used as a substitute for sugar and have strong sweetening properties. They can be helpful in weight management, diabetes, and other insulin sensitivity-related metabolic disorders. Objective: This survey intended to analyze the knowledge and risk perceptions related to the safety and benefits of Non-nutritive sweeteners in a population of Pakistani adults. The impact of knowledge dissemination on the consumption of Non-nutritive sweeteners was also assessed. Methods: An online survey was conducted, and 680 responses were received. Results: Results indicated that 55.7% reported Non-nutritive sweeteners consumption, while 44.3% denied any usage. Only 27.4% of respondents showed trust in regulatory bodies while only 26.2% had any idea about the laws surrounding their use. The second part of the study aimed to examine the effect of knowledge dissemination on Non-nutritive sweeteners consumption, but the result showed that the participants were still not convinced about the safety levels of Non-nutritive sweeteners (p &lt; 0.05). The only statement that participants were persuaded by was that Non-nutritive sweeteners does not pose any risk of cancer. The main reason for consumption was attributed to the low caloric properties of Non-nutritive sweeteners. Conclusions: The results showed that effective communication by regulatory authorities and health professionals via the internet, social media and leaflets can be beneficial in educating the public about Non-nutritive sweeteners. The role of health care professionals is also important to assure the public of the safety of Non-nutritive sweeteners.

Cross sectional study on the nonnutritive sweetener consumption and its association with socio-demographic characteristics among Saudi pregnant women

Cross sectional study on the nonnutritive sweetener consumption and its association with socio-demographic characteristics among Saudi pregnant women

Consumo de adoçantes não nutritivos e prevalência de hipertensão arterial sistêmica em adultos e idosos de uma capital do Nordeste brasileiro

ABSTRACT Objective To characterize the consumption of Non-nutritive sweeteners and to verify the association between the intake of these additives and the prevalence of Systemic Arterial Hypertension in adults and the elderly in a Brazilian capital. Methods This was a cross-sectional household and population-based study carried out with 489 individuals aged 20 years and older residents of Teresina, Piauí, Brazil. Complex probabilistic cluster sampling was used. Sociodemographic, economic, lifestyle and diseases diagnosis, such as SAH diagnosis, data were obtained by self-report. Weight, height, waist circumference and blood pressure were measured. Data on food consumption and Non-nutritive sweeteners consumption were obtained using 24-hour dietary recall. The association between the consumption of Non-nutritive sweeteners and the prevalence of Systemic Arterial Hypertension was verified using Poisson regression. Results The most commonly consumed types of Non-nutritive sweeteners were cyclamate and saccharin and the main source of consumption was tabletop sweeteners. The consumption of Non-nutritive sweeteners was well below the Acceptable Daily Intake. Mean systolic blood pressure and diastolic blood pressure were higher in women and men who consumed Non-nutritive sweeteners (p=0.04), respectively. Individuals who consumed Non-nutritive sweeteners had a 36% higher prevalence of Systemic Arterial Hypertension compared to non-consumers (p=0.04), after adjustments. Female consumers of Non-nutritive sweeteners had a 31% higher prevalence of Systemic Arterial Hypertension (No-BreakpNo-Break=0.04). Conclusion The consumption of Non-nutritive sweeteners was positively associated with the prevalence of Systemic Arterial Hypertension. It is therefore important to continue studies investigating the possible health consequences of consuming these substances.

Potential actions for preventing high consumption of Non-Nutritive Sweeteners among Chilean children and adolescents: recommendations from a panel of relevant actors.

To provide local policymakers with a guideline of potential actions to prevent the high consumption of Non-Nutritive Sweeteners (NNS) among children and adolescents observed in Chile, given the potential health problems related to NNS intake. The Delphi method was used for the evaluation of twenty-one recommendations to decrease the intake of NNS in paediatric population, with the participation of a panel of relevant actors. The proposed recommendations were developed by the research team using the NOURISHING framework; potential actions were based on the increase in the use and intake of NNS by Chilean children, current local food regulations, recommendations of health organisations and foreign policy experiences. Twenty-five relevant actors related to NNS, nutrition, food technology and paediatrics (out of thirty-nine invitations made to scholars, professional institutions and civil society’s organisations) participated in the Delphi study. A consensus was reached on nine recommendations regarding relevance and feasibility to be part of the guideline. Recommendations involved measures mostly related to improving the delivery of information (food content and potential health effects of NNS), supporting the generation of more evidence of NNS health effects and substitutes, and marketing restrictions when targeted to children. The process produced a nine-action guideline to reduce the excessive NNS consumption among Chilean children and adolescents. Developed through a consensus-driven approach among key stakeholders, this guideline provides policymakers with a framework to adopt a precautionary stance, particularly concerning vulnerable populations, given the currently inconclusive evidence on the long-term health effects of NNS consumption.

Maternal Consumption of Non-Nutritive Sweeteners during Pregnancy Is Associated with Alterations in the Colostrum Microbiota

Non-nutritive sweeteners (NNSs) provide a sweet taste to foods and beverages without significantly adding calories. Still, their consumption has been linked to modifications in adult’s and children’s gut microbiota and the disruption of blood glucose control. Human milk microbiota are paramount in establishing infants’ gut microbiota, but very little is known about whether the consumption of sweeteners can alter it. To address this question, we sequenced DNA extracted colostrum samples from a group of mothers, who had different levels of NNS consumption, using the Ion Torrent Platform. Our results show that the “core” of colostrum microbiota, composed of the genera Bifidobacterium, Blautia, Cutibacteium, Staphylococcus, and Streptococcus, remains practically unchanged with the consumption of NNS during pregnancy, but specific genera display significant alterations, such as Staphylococcus and Streptococcus. A significant increase in the unclassified archaea Methanobrevibacter spp. was observed as the consumption frequency of NNS increased. The increase in the abundance of this archaea has been previously linked to obesity in Mexican children. NNS consumption during pregnancy could be related to changes in colostrum microbiota and may affect infants’ gut microbiota seeding and their future health.

Effect of non-nutritive sweeteners on insulin regulation, glycemic response, appetite and weight management: a systematic review

PurposeThe purpose of this study is to collect and assess the evidence available on the effect of non nutritive sweeteners on appetite, weight and glycemic regulation. As a replacement for sugars, non-nutritive sweeteners (NNSs) are widely being used in different food products with the assumption that these would lower calorie intake and help to manage weight and blood sugar levels better. However, studies using animal models have reported that chronic exposure to NNSs leads to increased food consumption, weight gain and insulin resistance.Design/methodology/approachEvidence was acquired from systematic reviews or meta-analyses (2016–2021) of relevant clinical studies, especially randomized control trials using Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis guidelines.FindingsThe review showed NNSs exposure did not conclusively induce increased food intake or change in subjective appetite ratings. Appetite biomarkers like ghrelin, gastric inhibitory peptide, C-peptide levels and Peptide YY remained mostly unaffected by NNSs. Meta-analyses of human randomized control studies showed a reduced energy intake and body weight. No significant change was seen in blood glucose levels, post-prandial glycemic or insulin response after consumption of NNSs. Adequate evidence is not available to conclusively say that NNSs influence gut health at doses relevant to human use.Research limitations/implicationsMost studies which are prospective cohort, observational and cross-sectional studies suggest that use of NNSs may promote obesity and metabolic syndrome in adults. Such studies are plagued by confounding variables and reverse causation. Mechanistic evidence is mostly based on in-vitro and in-vivo studies. The same causal pathways may not be operative or relevant in humans.Practical implicationsThis review of available literature concludes that to achieve specific public health and clinical goals, the safe use of NNSs for the reduction of intakes of free sugars and energy should be explored. This would be possible by educating the consumer about energy compensation and understanding the nutritional content of artificially sweetened products in terms of calories coming from fat and complex carbohydrates used in the product.Originality/valueThis study was, thus, designed with the objective of examining the usefulness of NNSs in human population, especially with respect to insulin regulation, glycemic control and weight management. Well-designed randomized control trials which control for confounding variables are needed to generate high quality evidence.

Consumption of the nonnutritive sweetener acesulfame potassium increases central precocious puberty risk

The prevalence of precocious puberty and the consumption of nonnutritive sweeteners (NNS) is rapidly growing worldwide. However, the effects of NNSs on precocious puberty remain unclear. We examined the impact of acesulfame potassium (AceK), one of the most widely used NNS, on central precocious puberty (CPP) development using ex vivo and in vitro studies. 884 girls aged 6–12 were enrolled with complete AceK consumption data and CPP outcome assessment in the Taiwan Pubertal Longitudinal Study from 2018 to 2022. After adjustment for confounders, compared with no AceK consumption, AceK consumption at more than the median dose was associated with higher CPP risk in girls (odds ratio = 1.88, 95% confidence interval = 1.16–3.06; p for trend = 0.003). In rats, AceK consumption from in-utero to post-weaning stages accelerated puberty onset, accompanied by increased brain gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) expression. Intracerebroventricular AceK injection also induced early puberty onset in rats. In N44 hypothalamic neuron cells, AceK treatment increased reactive oxygen species production, which led to protein kinase A (PKA) activation and increased GnRH expression. These findings suggest that prepubertal girls should consume soft drinks or food products containing AceK more cautiously.

Non-nutritive sweeteners: consumer awareness and inclusion in food and beverage products in South Africa

Background: The widespread use of non-nutritive sweeteners (NNSs) in the food and beverage industry has become a global trend. Objective: A study was undertaken to assess the level of awareness of South Africans of NNSs and to create a scientific product database of NNSs in a sample of packaged products in South Africa. Design: A cross-sectional survey design was chosen. Setting: The study was carried out online in South Africa . Subjects: The study participants were South African adults (n = 388). Outcome measures: A consumer awareness survey on NNSs and a scientific product database were created to identify products formulated with NNSs. Results: A large proportion of participants were unfamiliar with most NNSs by name; however, a significant 61% (n = 238) (p < 0.001) of participants were most aware of xylitol, and 45% (n = 174) were aware of aspartame. Despite this, a significant number of participants consumed products labelled ‘sugar-free’ and/or ‘diet’ (p < 0.001). Participants were aware of health concerns and health benefits associated with the consumption of NNSs. A scientific product database consisting of 419 products containing NNSs was created during the study. A combination of NNSs was used in the formulations of 65% (n = 273) of the products, while 35% (n = 146) of the products were formulated with a single NNS. Conclusion: The outcome of this research highlights key consumer insights into NNSs and their widespread use in product formulations in South Africa. The outcome of this study shows the need for continuous monitoring of the effects of the increasing use of NNSs in product formulation and their impact on health and diet. Consumer education would advance consumer awareness of NNSs.

48-LB: Changes in Plasma Levels of Nonnutritive Sweetener Erythritol Are Related to Two-Year Changes of Insulin Sensitivity in Response to Weight-Loss Diets—The POUNDS Lost trial

Evidence on the benefits of non-nutritive sweeteners for weight management and improving insulin sensitivity and glucose metabolism is inconsistent. Recently, high levels of circulating erythritol, a sugar alcohol used as one of the non-nutritive sweeteners, have been linked to increased risks of type 2 diabetes and its vascular complications. Whether changes in circulating erythritol levels are related to insulin sensitivity and glucose metabolism remains unknown. Here, we investigated whether changes in plasma erythritol induced by weight-loss diet interventions were related to improved insulin sensitivity and glucose metabolism. This study included overweight or obese participants without diabetes or unstable cardiovascular disease from the POUNDS Lost trial with available data on circulating erythritol at baseline (n=805) and its changes from baseline to 6 months (n=670) and 2 years (n=533) during weight-loss diet interventions. At baseline, higher plasma levels of erythritol were related to hyperinsulinemia and greater degrees of insulin resistance assessed by HOMA-IR, even after adjusting for covariates, including BMI (P &amp;lt;0.05 for all). In response to weight-loss dietary interventions, a greater decrease in plasma erythritol was significantly associated with larger reductions of fasting insulin (p= 0.0001) and HOMA-IR (p=0.039) at 6 months, regardless of the initial levels of BMI, erythritol, and the respective outcome. Similarly, we found a significant association between long-term changes in erythritol and a 2-year reduction of fasting insulin (p=0.0027). In conclusion, circulating plasma erythritol, a marker of non-nutritive sweetener consumption, was significantly associated with hyperinsulinemia and insulin sensitivity among adults with overweight or obesity. Weight-loss diet-induced decreases in plasma erythritol were related to improved insulin sensitivity. Disclosure Y. Heianza: None. Q. Xue: None. J. Rood: None. G. Bray: Advisory Panel; Medifast, Inc., Herbalife International of America, Inc. F. Sacks: None. L. Qi: None. Funding National Institutes of Health (DK091718, DK100383, DK115679, 2P20GM109036-06A1-7233)

Maternal consumption and perinatal exposure to non-nutritive sweeteners: should we be concerned?

The context for this review is the rapid increase in the use of non-nutritive sweeteners (NNSs) instead of sugar in foods and beverages, a situation so prevalent in some countries that consumers are finding it increasingly challenging to access foods without NNSs. The benefits of consuming NNSs on obesity and diabetes are now being questioned, and studies have shown that they may exert physiological activities, sometimes independently of sweet taste receptor stimulation. Few studies, limited mainly to North American and European countries, have described the consumption of NNSs by pregnant or lactating women and infants. Most focus on beverages rather than foods, but all agree that consumption levels have increased dramatically. Although some studies report a negative impact of NNSs on the risk of preterm birth, increased birth weight and decreased gestational age, the level of evidence is low. Several studies have also reported increased weight gain in infancy, associated with maternal NNS intake. Interestingly, several NNSs have been detected in amniotic fluid and breast milk, usually (but not always) at concentrations below their established detection limit in humans. Unfortunately, the impact of chronic exposure of the fetus/infant to low levels of multiple NNSs is unknown. In conclusion, there is a stark contrast between the galloping increase in the consumption of NNSs and the small number of studies evaluating their impact in at-risk groups such as pregnant and lactating women and infants. Clearly, more studies are needed, especially in Latin America and Asia, to fill these gaps and update recommendations.

Effects of Nonnutritive Sweeteners on Body Composition Changes during Pubertal Growth.

The effects of consuming specific types of nonnutritive sweeteners (NNSs) on adiposity changes in children have remained inconsistent. In this study, we aimed to investigate the effects of the intake of different kinds of NNSs on long-term adiposity changes during pubertal growth. Furthermore, we examined the above relationships among different sexes, pubertal stages, and levels of obesity. A total of 1893 6-15-year-old adults were recruited and followed-up every 3 months. The NNS-FFQ (Food Frequency Questionnaire) was conducted and urine samples were collected to investigate the effects of the selected sweeteners, which included acesulfame potassium, aspartame, sucralose, glycyrrhizin, steviol glycosides, and sorbitol. Multivariate linear mixed-effects models were used to examine the relationship between NNS intake and body composition. The consumption of aspartame, sucralose, glycyrrhizin, stevioside, and sorbitol was associated with decreased fat mass and increased fat-free mass. In the highest tertile group, the effects of NNS consumption on fat mass corresponded to values of -1.21 (95% CI: -2.04 to -0.38) for aspartame, -0.62 (95% CI: -1.42 to 0.19) for sucralose, -1.26 (95% CI: -2.05 to -0.47) for glycyrrhizin, -0.90 (95% CI: -2.28 to 0.48) for stevioside, and -0.87 (95% CI: -1.67 to -0.08) for sorbitol, while the effects on fat-free mass corresponded to values of 1.20 (95% CI: 0.36 to -0.38) for aspartame, 0.62 (95% CI: -0.19 to 1.43) for sucralose, 1.27 (95% CI: 0.48 to 2.06) for glycyrrhizin, 0.85 (95% CI: -0.53 to 2.23) for stevioside, and 0.87 (95% CI: 0.08 to 1.67) for sorbitol. Particularly, aspartame and sorbitol revealed a dose-responsiveness effect. The above finding was more prominent among girls than boys. Moreover, fat mass was significantly reduced in normal-weight children who consumed a moderate amount of aspartame and a large amount of glycyrrhizin and sorbitol compared with obese children. In conclusion, the NNS-specific and sex-specific effects of long-term NNS consumption revealed associations of decreasing fat mass and increasing fat-free mass for children undergoing pubertal growth.

Artificial non-nutritive sweeteners consumption is able to modulate glycemic control and body composition in healthy or diet-induced obese mice

Non-nutritive sweeteners (NNS) are among the most widely used food additives worldwide. Their substitution to sugar is presented as one of the solutions to prevent cardiometabolic disease, especially as they have a sweet taste but very low-energy content. However, several recent studies have questioned their physiological inactivity, which was the basis for their approval by health authorities. The main objective of this study was to evaluate the acute and chronic effects of artificial NNS consumption on glycemic control in lean and diet-induced mice models. Consequently, we evaluated the acute effects of NNS acesulfame-potassium (aceK) and sucralose on glucose tolerance, insulin sensitivity and insulin secretion measured in blood and at the beta-cells pancreatic level of mice. In another set of mice, we compared the effects of aceK or sucralose supplementations to sugar consumption during a 12 week long high-fat (HF) diet. At the end of the 12 weeks of supplementation, we evaluated the influence of these different conditions on glucose metabolism and body fat distribution. First, we reported, in our mice models, that oral glucose tolerance tests (OGTTs) after acute sucralose gavage were improved significantly compared to AceK gavage and control situation (vehicle). These acute effects on blood glucose levels after sucralose ingestion were not directly explained by a significant increase neither in beta cells insulin secretion nor in insulin sensitivity. Interestingly, we further demonstrated that both NNS chronic consumption were able to attenuate significantly the deleterious effect of HF diet on glycemic control (glucose tolerance and insulin sensitivity), independently of caloric intake. Moreover, we reported in HF mice supplemented with NNS a lower accumulation of adipose tissue in the inguinal and subcutaneous compartments which was associated with a reduction in body mass in these groups. Surprisingly, our results demonstrate that even an acute consumption of widely used NNS sucralose and AceK is able to alter glucose metabolism. When repeated over time, the consumption of these NNS also seems to be able to reduce deleterious effects of HF diet on glycemic control but also on body composition. These results may contribute to a better understanding of the effects of NNS on metabolic health, but further studies are needed to decipher underlying mechanisms.

Associated factors to the consumption of non-nutritive sweeteners in the Mexican adult population

Objective. To identify the associated factors to the consumption of non-nutritive sweeteners (NNS) in the Mexican adult population since its consumption has increased exponentially worldwide. Materials and methods. An online survey was applied to 5 038 Mexican adults to evaluate the frequency of NNS consumption and classify the population in tertiles. The sociodemographic, lifestyle and health status characteristics of the participants were compared by gradient of NNS consumption, and a multiple linear regression analysis was performed to determine the associated factors to the NNS consumption. Results. The variables that showed a positive association (p≤0.01) with the consumption of NNS were economic income, BMI, smoking, physical activity, diet quality, the presence of chronic diseases (diabetes, hypertension, or dyslipidemias), and the consumption of fruit. The age and the consumption of confectionery and sugar-sweetened beverages were negatively associated (p&lt;0.01) with the consumption of NNS. Conclusion. The results of this study help to characterize the target population that is a consumer of NNS since it is recommended not encourage the preference for sweet taste and to promote a decrease in the consumption of both caloric and NNS, preferring the natural flavor of food.

Sweetener System Intervention Shifted Neutrophils from Homeostasis to Priming.

Non-nutritive sweeteners (NNS) are part of personalized nutrition strategies supporting healthy glycemic control. In contrast, the consumption of non-nutritive sweeteners has been related to person-specific and microbiome-dependent glycemic impairments. Reports on the effects of NNS on our highly individual cellular immune system are sparse. The recent identification of taste receptor expression in a variety of immune cells, however, suggested their immune-modulatory relevance. We studied the influence of a beverage-typical NNS system on the transcriptional profiling of sweetener-cognate taste receptors, selected cytokines and their receptors, and on Ca2+ signaling in isolated blood neutrophils. We determined plasma concentrations of saccharin, acesulfame-K, and cyclamate by HPLC-MS/MS, upon ingestion of a soft drink-typical sweetener surrogate. In an open-labeled, randomized intervention study, we determined pre- versus post-intervention transcript levels by RT-qPCR of sweetener-cognate taste receptors and immune factors. Here we show that the consumption of a food-typical sweetener system modulated the gene expression of cognate taste receptors and induced the transcriptional regulation signatures of early homeostasis- and late receptor/signaling- and inflammation-related genes in blood neutrophils, shifting their transcriptional profile from homeostasis to priming. Notably, sweeteners at postprandial plasma concentrations facilitated fMLF (N-formyl-Met-Leu-Phe)-induced Ca2+ signaling. Our results support the notion of sweeteners priming neutrophils to higher alertness towards their adequate stimuli.