Stevia is a plant-based, zero-calorie sweetener that is a beneficial and preferred substitute for both sugar and synthetic sweeteners, says Healthline. Ideal for use in beverages like coffee and tea and in cooking and baking, it delivers intense sweetness, estimated to be 200-300 times more potent than regular sugar, states Medical News Today.
The US Food and Drug Administration has classified highly-refined steviol glycosides -- the sweet compounds extracted from the stevia plant -- as Generally Recognised As Safe or GRAS for inclusion in food products. It warns that unrefined stevia leaves or crude extracts remain unapproved due to insufficient safety data.
Compounds found in stevia, like stevioside and rebaudioside A, are generally considered safe for use in food and drink. WebMD warns that, some individuals may experience mild reactions like stomach discomfort, light-headedness, tingling sensations or queasiness. It suggests avoiding stevia if you are planning a baby.
Healthline advises checking that the stevia brand you use has no extra ingredents, like maltodextrin, that interferes with the growth of good gut bacteria. Stevia itself can affect gut bacteria -- one of the steviol glycosides found in stevia, namely rebaudioside A, does that. Since stevia is so sweet, some researchers suggest it can build sweet cravings.
Stevia is beneficial for individuals with diabetes, due to its ability to sweeten foods without increasing blood sugar. Pure stevia extracts are best for maintaining glycemic stability without additional risks, says Cleveland Clinic
According to Healthline, products containing stevia cost more than regular sugar and many synthetic sweeteners. Its taste is often described as having a hint of liquorice, with a slightly bitter finish.
Stevia is free from sugar and contributes little to no caloric value. It can be included in a healthy, balanced eating plan to lower overall calorie consumption, while still providing a pleasant, sweet flavour, states Medical News Today. It's a great choice in a weight loss journey.
WebMD states stevia may have a blood pressure-lowering effect. But it cautions, when combined with antihypertensive medications, stevia could potentially cause a significant drop in blood pressure. So, it’s important to regularly check your readings if using both.
Stevia may influence brain function in a way that improves mood, states Healthline. Stevia might also aid in managing diarrhoea and offer protection against rotavirus.
Stevia is rich in various antioxidants and plant-based compounds, one of which is kaempferol. Medical News Today states that kaempferol may help lower the likelihood of developing pancreatic cancer by as much as 23 per cent.