Intestinal gluconeogenesis: A translator of nutritional information needed for glycemic and emotional balance.

At the interface between the outside world and the self, the intestine is the first organ receiving nutritional information. One intestinal function, gluconeogenesis, is activated by various nutrients, particularly diets enriched in fiber or protein, and thus results in glucose production in the portal vein in the post-absorptive period. The detection of portal glucose induces a nervous signal controlling the activity of the central nuclei involved in the regulation of metabolism and emotional behavior. Induction of intestinal gluconeogenesis is necessary for the beneficial effects of fiber or protein-enriched diets on metabolism and emotional behavior. Through its ability to translate nutritional information from the diet to the brain's regulatory centers, intestinal gluconeogenesis plays an essential role in maintaining physiological balance. • Intestinal gluconeogenesis translates nutritional information into a signal integrated by the brain. • Beneficial effects of protein and fiber enriched diet on metabolism and behavior require intestinal gluconeogenesis. • Modifying intestinal gluconeogenesis per se is sufficient to control energy, glucose homeostasis and emotional behavior. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]