Dysregulated microbiota-gut-brain axis: Does it explain aspartame metabolic and other side-effects?

Purpose This paper aims to summarize the available literatures, specifically in the following areas: metabolic and other side effects of aspartame; microbiota changes/dysbiosis and its effect on the gut-brain axis; changes on gut microbiota as a result of aspartame usage; metabolic effects (weight gain and glucose intolerance) of aspartame due to gut dysbiosis; and postulated effects of dysregulated microbiota-gut-brain axis on other aspartame side-effects (neurophysiological symptoms and immune dysfunction). Design/methodology/approach Aspartame is rapidly becoming a public health concern because of its purported side-effects especially neurophysiological symptom and immune dysregulation. It is also paradoxical that metabolic consequences including weight gain and impaired blood glucose levels have been observed in consumers. Exact mechanisms of above side-effects are unclear, and data are scarce but aspartame, and its metabolites may have caused disturbance in the microbiota-gut-brain axis. Findings Additional studies investigating the impact of aspartame on gut microbiota and metabolic health are needed. Originality/value Exact mechanism by which aspartame-induced gut dysbiosis and metabolic dysfunction requires further investigation.