Bibliometric approach to trehalulose research trends for its potential health benefits

Trehalulose (1-O-α-d-glucopyranosyl-d-fructose) is a naturally occurring disaccharide composed of fructose and glucose. It is a sucrose isomer with a unique α-1,1 glycosidic bond that is more stable than the 1,2 glycosidic bond found in sucrose, giving it a lower glycemic index (GI). Trehalulose sugar production is often complicated, and the literature on the production is scarce. However, trehalulose is gaining popularity after a recent study revealed the abundance of this sugar in stingless bee honey (13 to 44 g per 100 g). The current short review discusses the chemical and physiological properties of trehalulose and its potential health benefits based on a bibliometric approach. Furthermore, it evaluates the antidiabetic potential of trehalulose as an emerging alternative sweetener.