Stevia Extract and Glucose Homeostasis

Effect of Stevia Extract on Postprandial Glucose Response and Satiety in Overweight and Obese Adults: A Three-arm Crossover Trial.

This study aims to assess the effect of stevia extract on postprandial glucose and insulin levels in overweight and obese adults when compared to sugar and water.

The study is a three-arm crossover trial involving participants attending the Lab on 3 different occasions (separated by 3-5 day washout period), where they will be administered water, sugar solution (65g), water and stevia extract (5g) solution. The solution will be followed by a consumption of a fixed meal (after 30 minutes). Breakfast will be standardised. Capillary blood glucose will be collected every 30 min until 2 hours post meal. Venous blood samples will be collected before the intake of the solution and at 2 hours after meal intake.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Age 18-65 years
• BMI 27-40 Kg/m2
• Males and females

Exclusion Criteria:

• Athletes
• Pregnant or breastfeeding women
• Patients with chronic disease (diabetes, CVD etc…).