Stevia rebaudiana
Also known as: Stevia rebaudiana Bertoni, Stevia, Sweet Leaf, Stevia rebaudiana
Overview
Stevia rebaudiana is a plant native to South America, renowned for its sweet leaves, which serve as a natural sweetener. It has a rich history of traditional use spanning centuries and is now widely integrated into the food industry. Stevia's primary application is as a low-calorie sweetener, but it is also being explored for potential health benefits, including antidiabetic and antihypertensive effects. The plant's sweetness is attributed to steviol glycosides, such as stevioside and rebaudioside A. These compounds are extracted and purified to create various stevia-based sweeteners available in powder, liquid, and tablet forms. While research on stevia's health effects is growing, more rigorous clinical trials are needed to fully validate its benefits and safety.
Benefits
Stevia has shown potential antihyperglycemic effects, with animal studies indicating that doses of 200-400 mg/kg can reduce blood glucose levels. Some human studies suggest it may help lower blood pressure in hypertensive patients. These effects make stevia a potential dietary aid for individuals with diabetes or hypertension, though more research is needed to confirm its efficacy and safety in these populations. Additionally, stevia may possess anti-inflammatory, anticancer, and antimicrobial properties, although these effects are less well-studied in humans. The antihyperglycemic effect is significant in animal models, but human data is less consistent, and effect sizes vary.
How it works
Stevia's active compounds, particularly stevioside and rebaudioside A, may interact with pancreatic beta cells to enhance insulin secretion and improve glucose metabolism. These compounds may also influence the cardiovascular system by lowering blood pressure and the metabolic system by affecting glucose levels. AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) has been implicated in stevia's antidiabetic effects. Stevia glycosides are poorly absorbed in the gut but may be metabolized by gut bacteria, influencing their bioavailability and overall impact on the body.
Side effects
Stevia is generally considered safe for consumption as a sweetener, but long-term health effects are not fully understood. Some individuals may experience gastrointestinal upset. Due to its potential effects on blood pressure and glucose levels, individuals with diabetes or hypertension should monitor their condition closely when using stevia. There is a potential for interactions with antidiabetic or antihypertensive medications. Limited data exists regarding the safety of stevia during pregnancy and lactation, so caution is advised. While rare side effects are not well-documented, it is important to be aware of potential individual sensitivities.
Dosage
For antihyperglycemic effects, animal studies have shown efficacy with doses of 200-400 mg/kg. Human studies are less clear, and typical consumption as a sweetener is much lower. The maximum safe dose for long-term use is not well-established. There are no specific timing recommendations for stevia consumption. Stevia leaf extracts may have different effects compared to purified glycosides. Gut bacteria may influence absorption. It is important to note that stevia is primarily used as a sweetener, and its potential therapeutic effects require further investigation to determine optimal and safe dosages.
FAQs
How can stevia be used?
Stevia can be used as a sweetener in foods and beverages. Its potential health benefits are still under investigation, so it should not be considered a primary treatment for any condition.
Is stevia safe to consume?
Stevia is generally recognized as safe, but individuals with certain health conditions, such as diabetes or hypertension, should consult a healthcare provider before regular use.
When is the best time to take stevia?
There are no specific timing recommendations for stevia consumption. It can be used as a sweetener at any time of day.
What results can I expect from using stevia?
Stevia may potentially reduce blood glucose levels and blood pressure, but results vary. It is not a proven treatment for any disease and should be used as part of a balanced diet.
Is stevia a proven treatment for diabetes or hypertension?
No, stevia is not a proven treatment for diabetes or hypertension. It may be used as part of a broader dietary approach, but should not replace conventional medical treatments.
Research Sources
- https://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/15/15/3325 – This meta-analysis examined the antihyperglycemic effects of Stevia leaf extracts. The study included 16 studies for qualitative analysis and 9 for quantitative analysis, finding significant antihyperglycemic effects at doses of 200-400 mg/kg, but noted limitations due to limited human data and variability in study quality.
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20370653/ – This systematic review assessed the general effects of Stevia, finding it may be effective in lowering blood pressure and improving glucose tolerance. However, the review also noted that the evidence is mixed and limited by the quality and consistency of the included studies.
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36171777/ – This animal study investigated the effects of Stevia on body mass and biochemical parameters in young, healthy Wistar rats over 120 days. The study found no significant effects, indicating that Stevia may not impact body mass or biochemical parameters in this specific animal model and age group.
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38412182/ – This study investigates the impact of Stevia rebaudiana on human health. Further details about the study's methodology and specific findings would be needed to provide a more comprehensive summary.
- https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1002/fsn3.2904 – This study provides insights into the food science and nutrition aspects of Stevia rebaudiana. Further details about the study's methodology and specific findings would be needed to provide a more comprehensive summary.
