Biochemical Effects of Stevia Leaf Extract and Its Purified Glycosides in Animal Models: Implications and Considerations for the Food Industry

This study aimed to comparatively evaluate the effects of different Stevia rebaudiana Bertoni-derived sweeteners on key biochemical parameters in healthy rats. The forms tested included a crude aqueous leaf extract, purified stevioside glycosides, and a commercial stevia product. The findings provide insights relevant to ingredient selection in the food industry. Thirty adult male Albino rats were divided into five groups (n=۶): a control group (T۱), and groups administered (T۲) crude extract (۱:۱۰۰, leaf powder: water), (T۳) purified stevioside crystals, (T۴) commercial stevia crystals, or (T۵) sucrose, all at ۱۰ mg/kg body weight. No significant differences in final body weight or liver enzymes (ALT, AST) were observed among the groups. However, the purified stevioside group (T۳) showed the most pronounced reduction in blood glucose levels. Notably, significant differences in renal parameters (urea and creatinine) were detected among all groups. Specifically, the crude extract group (T۲) exhibited the lowest urea and creatinine levels, while the sucrose-fed group (T۵) showed the highest values. The sucrose-fed group (T۵) also exhibited elevated serum triglycerides (۴۱.۷۸ mg/dL) and cholesterol (۹۲.۳۳ mg/dL), contrasting with the stevia-treated groups, which showed lower lipid profiles. These findings highlight the distinct physiological impacts of different stevia preparations and underscore the potential metabolic advantages of purified steviol glycosides over sucrose. The results support the application of stevia-based sweeteners in formulating functional foods and beverages aimed at glycemic control and metabolic health.

کلیدواژه ها:

Stevia rebaudiana Bertoni ، Steviol glycosides ، Biochemical parameters ، Albino rats ، Blood glucose ، Liver enzymes