Flavonoid-enriched extract from stevia (Stevia rebaudiana Bertoni) regulated lipid accumulation and gut microbiota in obese mice

High-fat-and-fructose diet (HFFD) is one of the causes of hyperlipidaemia (HLP), which could directly cause serious diseases that are harmful to human health. The phenolic composition of stevia extract (WeiKe) and its effect of different concentrations on glucose–lipid metabolism, oxidative stress, and intestinal microecology in hyperlipidaemia mice were investigated. The results showed that WeiKe could effectively inhibit the increase in body weight and blood glucose levels and regulate lipid metabolism. WeiKe repaired the gut morphology, promoted short-chain fatty acid (SCFA) production, and improved food digestion and absorption. Furthermore, WeiKe reduced the Firmicutes/Bacteroidetes ratio and increased the relative abundance of Lactobacillus. These results suggested that stevia extract had a potential modulatory effect on HFFD-induced HLP.