2024, Vol. 12, Issue 3, Part A

Stevia rebaudiana (Bertoni) and its components such as stevioside has become an important economic plant for its commercial use as a sweetener. Nowadays, stevia plays a significant role in the healthcare practice of the many cultures in different populations. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of Stevia rebaudiana (St) extract and stevioside (Sd) oral administration (cavage) on the hepatic functions in male rats and to estimate the relationship between consumption of high dose of Sd on TyG index. Thirty (30) adult rats were randomly selected and divided equally into three experimental groups and treated for one and two months as the follows, CONT: 10 rats in this group served as control, 10 rats in St group were given 250 mg/kg b.W. of stevia extract, and 10 rats in Sd groups were given 250 mg/kg b.w. Sd solution. At the conclusion of the tests, fasting blood samples were obtained using the heart puncture technique, and serum samples were obtained for the determination of the serum lipid profile, liver enzymes, and FBG and all rats equally drinking water during the period of two month. The results shows significantly increase levels of TC, TG, LDL, VLDL, and decreasing levels of HDL (mg/dl) (p-value<0.05) in Sd group compare to St and CONT groups. The results also showing statistical differences in TSB, ALT, AST, and ALP (U/l) levels between all study groups (p-value< 0.05). TyG index were calculated in all study groups and also showing significant variables in Sd group (5.5) compare to St and CONT groups. In conclusion. The results of current study showing Sd is more risk for hyperlipidemia (elevated in lipid profile) more than St and more risk to increase insulin resistance (elevated in TyG index) and metabolic disorders and liver diseases (elevated in liver enzymes).