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Review
. 2024 Jul 2;33(9):2047-2064.
doi: 10.1007/s10068-024-01597-x. eCollection 2024 Jul.

Impact of artificial sweeteners and rare sugars on the gut microbiome

Chang-Young Lee #  1 , Yun-Sang So #  2 , Sang-Ho Yoo  2 , Byung-Hoo Lee  3 , Dong-Ho Seo  1   2
Affiliations
Review

Impact of artificial sweeteners and rare sugars on the gut microbiome

Chang-Young Lee et al. Food Sci Biotechnol. .

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.

Keywords: Artificial sweetener; Gut microbiome; Rare sugar.

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Conflict of interest statement

Conflict of interestThe authors declare that they have no conflict of interest.

Figures

Fig. 1
Fig. 1
Structure of artificial sweeteners
Fig. 2
Fig. 2
Enzymatic production process of rare sugars. A D-allulose, B Tagatose, C Isomaltulose, D Trehalose
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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