Natural Sweetener Stevia May Reverse and Prevent Diabetes

Stevia is a favorable alternative to sugar for many health-conscious individuals, but new research has indicated that it may also help to prevent and reverse diabetes.  Examining the effects of Stevia leaf extract on diabetic rats, the extract was administered orally for 10 days. Amazingly, the treatment led to a reduced blood glucose level, without producing hypoglycemia.

The rats also were found to have lost body weight, showing the natural fat loss effects of Stevia.

The abstract of the study states:

Treatment of diabetes with sulfonylurea drugs (glibenclamide) causes hypoglycemia followed by greater reduction in body weight, which are the most worrisome effects of these drugs. Stevia extract was found to [have] … a revitalizing effect on β-cells of pancreas.