In vivo antidiabetic effect and antioxidant potential of Stevia Rebaudiana mixed with Tragacanth gum in orange nectar

The objective of this research was to develop a novel low-sugar orange nectar using Stevia Rebaudiana and tragacanth gum, aiming to enhance the anti-hyperglycemic effect and antioxidant stability. The experimental design involved varying two levels of Stevia and tragacanth gum, including central points. The oxidative stability and organoleptic test were required for the selection. The impact of daily consumption of the optimal nectar on postprandial glycemia was assessed in diabetic Wistar rats.

The results demonstrated that formulation F1, containing 0.5% tragacanth and 0.03% Stevia, achieved the highest organoleptic score (9.55) and exhibited the greatest stability, with half-life times of 83.87 days at 4 °C and 76.26 days at 25 °C. The in-vivo antidiabetic study revealed a positive effect of this formulation in preventing postprandial hyperglycemia and weight gain. This research clearly highlights the importance of incorporating 0.03% Stevia and 0.5% tragacanth in the formulation of low-sugar orange nectar to ensure functional efficacy and technological stability.