The sweet-tasting herb stevia is quickly gaining popularity as a naturopathic treatment for type II diabetes and related conditions. The World Health Organization has advised consumers that, while evidence of stevia's effectiveness is limited, several small-scale animal studies have apparently confirmed its ability to enhance insulin production and insulin sensitivity. Because major governing bodies identify stevia as safe and nontoxic, it may become an important component of natural diabetes management.
History
Because of stevia's impact on insulin production and response, it has been a key component of traditional medicine for several South American cultures. "Metabolism-Clinical and Experimental" notes that stevia has been used for centuries as a traditional diabetes management option. In recent history, scientists have investigated the insulin reactions associated with stevia. The majority of stevia studies have involved rodents and have taken place at Aarhus University Hospital in Denmark. As of February 2010, no large-scale clinical trials have investigated stevia's insulin reactions within the human body.
Benefits for Diabetes
Stevia's influence on insulin makes it a potentially viable complementary treatment option for people with type II diabetes. Because of its sweet flavor, stevia is gaining popularity as a low-calorie, low-glycemic index alternative to sugar. In theory, stevia can satisfy cravings for sweets without contributing to diabetes or obesity. Additionally, in March 2003, "Metabolism" reported that diabetic rats at Aarhus University Hospital experienced a reduction in blood pressure after taking stevia. This would suggest that stevia can treat hypertension, a common complication of diabetes, obesity and metabolic syndrome.
Effects on Insulin
Several in vitro (test tube) studies and animal tests have confirmed that stevia influences insulin reactions within the human body. In October 2004, "Metabolism" published a comprehensive review of several Aarhus University Hospital studies. The review suggested that glucosides in stevia increase the production of insulin in both diabetic and nondiabetic rodents. Additionally, rats and mice taking stevia experienced heightened sensitivity to insulin. Scientists do not understand how stevia triggers these insulin reactions, but these effects may indicate that stevia is an effective treatment for type II diabetes.
Misconceptions
Stevia's ability to stimulate the insulin production has only been demonstrated in rats with type II, or adult-onset, diabetes. While it may act as a useful low glycemic-index sweetener for people with type I diabetes, there is only limited evidence to support the notion that it can influence the course of childhood-onset diabetes. People with diabetes should understand that stevia can not cure diabetes or replace the role of qualified medical advice and a balanced diet. A nutritionist or doctor of naturopathy can help patients determine stevia's usefulness as a complementary diabetes treatment.
Warning
Despite its many potential benefits, stevia is not without some risks. Most importantly, people with diabetes must bear in mind that evidence of its effectiveness is still very limited; no large-scale clinical studies have fully confirmed its efficacy. The Mayo Clinic warns that, while many people can use lifestyle changes and alternative techniques to manage their diabetes, no drug or supplement can cure it. Consumers should also note that some very early studies demonstrated that stevia may contribute to birth defects or cancer; however, the World Health Organization states that these studies were deeply flawed and have since been disproven. Nevertheless, people who are concerned about possible side effects of stevia should consult a qualified expert.
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