What are neuropod cells?

Neuropod cells are specialized neurons located in the gut, known for sensing nutrients like sugars, fatty acids, and amino acids. When these cells detect sugar, they generate electrical signals sent through the vagus nerve to the brain. This signaling can evoke cravings and consumption of more sugary foods. The process relies on a precise network involving the nodose ganglion and the nucleus of the solitary tract, enabling cravings and preferences for sweet foods to occur below our conscious awareness 1 2 3.

This intricate gut-brain connection plays a dual role with the sensing of taste from our mouths, highlighting the depth of our physiological response to sweet foods 4. There's strong evidence showing that our preference for sweets goes beyond their taste to involve gut sensations we're not consciously aware of, potentially stemming from the activities of neuropod cells 5.