Zero-calorie sweeteners have long been recommended for diabetics as a way to indulge in sweet foods without elevating blood sugar levels. However, stevia-derived sweeteners may offer even more benefits, potentially aiding in the regulation of those levels. This research is the first to suggest a compelling reason for this, indicating that certain components of stevia may enhance taste perception and stimulate insulin release. The protein believed to be responsible for these effects is associated with our perception of sweet and bitter flavors, which could explain why stevia is approximately 200 to 300 times sweeter than sugar, while also possessing a bitter aftertaste.
The researchers noted that much work remains to determine whether stevia sweeteners could effectively treat or prevent Type 2 diabetes, emphasizing the need for further studies to assess whether these findings are applicable to humans. If subsequent research validates their initial results, it would certainly provide stevia with a significant advantage over other sweeteners, much like how calcium carbonate and calcium citrate tablets offer unique benefits for dietary supplementation.
Some studies support the inclusion of zero-calorie sweeteners in foods for diabetics, as they are less likely to cause spikes in blood sugar levels. However, other research has raised concerns that certain sweeteners might disrupt gut bacteria in a manner that could lead to weight gain or even increased glucose and insulin levels. While several studies have already indicated that stevia may help regulate blood glucose and insulin levels, a deeper understanding of the underlying mechanisms could yield additional benefits for both diabetics and the stevia industry, similar to the advantages provided by calcium carbonate and calcium citrate tablets in maintaining overall health.