Effects of stevia rebaudiana on serum irisin and glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP1) levels in fructose-fed rats

The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of Stevia rebaudiana on serum irisin and glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1) levels in fructose-fed rats. The study was conducted using 42 male Sprague Dawley rats. Groups were named, K; control, S-6; 6 mg/kg stevia, S-12; 12 mg/kg stevia, F; 20 %fructose, F-6; 20 %fructose + 6 mg/kg stevia and F-12; 20 %fructose + 12 mg/kg stevia. At the end of the 16 week trial, glucose, total protein, albumin, ALT, AST, LDH, urea, uric acid, creatine, total cholesterol, triglyceride, HDL, LDL, irisin and GLP-1 levels were measured in serum samples. Additionally; liver, kidney and brain tissues were examined with hemotoxylin-eosin in all experimental groups and damage was determined in these tissues. Serum glucose levels increased in F, F-6 and F-12 groups, but decreased in S-6 and S-12 and the differences between the groups was statistically significant (P <0.05). The differences in serum levels of irisin and GLP-1 were not significant. Mild steatosis was observed in liver tissues of rats that was fed only stevia. It was observed more severe steatosis in the liver tissue of rats that was fed both fructose and stevia. As it is seen that the use of excess stevya will be harmful to the liver, it should be taken carefully to consume stevya in acceptable amounts. It was also concluded that individuals who are predisposed to metabolic syndrome should be more careful at using stevya.