Treating diseases associated with metabolic syndrome

Abstract Metabolic syndrome is a multifactorial disease characterized by metabolic unbalances, namely obesity, insulin resistance, hyperglycemia, diabetes, hypertension, dyslipidemia, low-grade inflammation, and overall leading to increased cardiovascular risk. Intensive lifestyle changes (nutrition and physical activity) are strategic in both the management and prevention of this syndrome. In this context, a reduction of dietary sugar intake is essential and the efficacy of its replacement with the nonnutritive sweetener Stevia rebaudiana has been suggested, not only to lower total energy intake but also for its potential therapeutic application. A majority of studies carried out in animal models shows that Stevia possesses hypotensive, lipid-lowering, hypoglycemic, insulin-sensitizing, prebiotic, and bacteriostatic properties. These results, partly confirmed by human studies, are worthy of extensive clinical validation in future trials. In order to exert a therapeutic efficacy, evidence indicates the importance of the form of administration (whole-leaf extract vs isolated stevioside) and the dosage, which is generally higher than that used for sweetening purposes.