Stevia, a sweet herbaceous plant commonly used as a sugar substitute, has been used for hundreds of years as a traditional treatment for Type II diabetes. The World Health Organization notes that stevia is safe, nontoxic and associated with few side effects; the WHO further observes that preliminary evidence supports its use as a treatment for diabetes and related conditions. While scientists do not yet fully understand the relationship between stevia and insulin, early studies support the notion that it can improve insulin sensitivity while also increasing the body's own production of insulin.
History
The medical journal "Metabolism-Clinical and Experimental" notes stevia's long history as a treatment for poor insulin response and production. Traditional medical systems in South America use stevia as a treatment for diabetes, hypertension and reactive hypoglycemia. Beginning in the 1970s, scientists in Japan, Denmark and the United States began using animal studies to investigate stevia's effect on metabolism and insulin production. Early trials have been encouraging, and stevia is gaining popularity as an alternative sweetener throughout the world.
Effects
Stevia's relationship with insulin is multifaceted and complex. "Metabolism" reported in March 2003 that diabetic rats experience improved insulin sensitivity after ingesting extracts of stevia. The study, which took place at Aarhus University Hospital, also reported that stevia has a secondary effect of reducing symptoms of hypertension-a common complication associated wiht diabetes. In October 2004, "Metabolism" published an extensive review of Aarhus University Hospital's studies of stevia. The review suggested that stevia enhances insulin production in diabetic mice and rats; it has a similar effect in an in-vitro environment. These scientific findings demonstrate that stevia increases both the production and sensitivity to insulin.
Benefits
Leaves from stevia plants offer several important benefits to people with diabetes and metabolic syndrome. The plant's honey-like flavor makes it a viable and tasty alternative to glucose-spiking sweeteners like sugar and corn syrup. Additionally, people with type II diabetes may benefit from stevia's ability to enhance insulin production and insulin sensitivity; this, in turn, may help stabilize blood glucose levels. While evidence is limited, some nutritionists also suggest stevia as a low glycemic index sweetener for people with reactive hypoglycemia, or pre-diabetes. Experts have hypothesized that it may prevent the blood sugar fluctuations that lead to the development of type II diabetes.
Misconceptions
While stevia is useful as a sweetener for anyone on a low-calorie or sugar-restricted diet, there is little evidence to support its use as a treatment option for people with type I (childhood-onset) diabetes. Additionally, consumers should note that no large-scale clinical trials have confirmed that stevia has an insulin-boosting effect on the human body. While some consumers believe stevia causes birth defects or cancer, the World Health Organization notes that early trials demonstrating these effects were flawed. Well-designed studies have demonstrated no toxic or harmful effects from stevia.
Considerations
Early investigations of stevia's therapeutic activity are encouraging but not conclusive. Because stevia's effects on insulin production are fairly subtle, people with diabetes should not depend upon it as a sole treatment for any disease or condition. No known drug or supplement can fully cure diabetes; stevia is not a replacement for professional medical advice, a balanced diet or an active lifestyle. Anyone interested in using stevia as a complementary treatment for diabetes should discuss the relative benefits and risks with a qualified expert, such as a clinical dietitian or naturopathic physician.
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