Stevia extract, especially the stevioside in it, is a natural sweetener. It is not metabolized into glucose by the human body, so it does not cause an increase in blood sugar levels. On the contrary, stevia extract can increase the body’s sensitivity to glucose and promote the secretion and utilization of insulin, which is the key to its blood sugar control.
Promote insulin secretion: Stevia extract can stimulate pancreatic beta cells to secrete insulin, effectively increasing the insulin content in the body. Insulin is the main hormone that lowers blood sugar. It can promote the entry of glucose into cells for oxidative decomposition, thereby lowering blood sugar levels.
Increase glucose sensitivity: Stevia extract controls blood sugar by increasing the body’s sensitivity to glucose and reducing the amount of sugar stored in the liver. This effect helps stabilize blood sugar levels and prevent blood sugar fluctuations.
As a natural sweetener to replace sugar: Because stevia extract is sweet and calorie-free, it can be used as a substitute for sugar in high-calorie foods to help control blood sugar levels. This is especially important for diabetics, who need to limit sugar intake to maintain blood sugar stability.
Research from the University of Leuven in Belgium and other research institutions have shown that the active ingredients in stevia extracts, such as stevioside and steviol, can activate the ion channel TRPM5. which is essential for the tongue to perceive sweetness, bitterness and umami, and is also involved in the release of insulin after a meal. Therefore, stevia extracts may enhance the function of pancreatic beta cells and promote insulin secretion by activating TRPM5. thereby helping to control blood sugar levels.