The effect of sweeteners on carbohydrate metabolism, metabolic parameters and intestinal microbiota

The prevalence of obesity and type 2 diabetes continues to grow, which determines the need to develop new methods of prevention in order to reduce the population risks of developing these diseases. The current direction is to limit the consumption of easily digestible carbohydrates and use low-calorie or non-calorie sweeteners instead. Currently, there is an increase in the use of non-calorie sweeteners in the manufacture of food. In this regard, the study of their possible effects on metabolic processes is of great importance.

This review presents studies that have shown different effects of non-calorie sweeteners on carbohydrate and fat metabolism, body weight, the composition of intestinal microbiota, as well as the regulation of eating behavior. Some studies show that low-calorie sugar substitutes can be used in obese people as part of a comprehensive weight loss program, as well as in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus with the aim of reducing postprandial hyperglycemia. Other studies demonstrate the negative effect of a number of low-calorie sweeteners on carbohydrate metabolism.

The main search for materials was carried out in Pubmed databases, eLIBRARY.ru, Google Scholar. Temporary search criteria 2012–2023 The relevant additional literature was included after a manual search in the literature lists of the included articles.

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