- An excellent natural substitute for sugar that is calorie-free!
- Up to 300 times sweeter than sugar.
- Great for diabetics—good blood sugar control.
- Suitable for cooking.
- Does not cause tooth decay like sugar does
Derived from the herbaceous perennial Stevia rebaudiane, Stevia is a natural sweetener indigenous to the rainforest areas of South America and has been used for thousands of years there by the natives. Stevia, which is intensely sweet (up to 300 times sweeter than sugar) is a great alternative to artificial sweeters like aspartame (Nutrasweet) and saccarin. Stevia is extremely popular in Japan and other Asian nations like Thailand, China, and Korea.
Stevia can be used effectively for weight control since it is calorie-free and the body does not respond to it the way it does to a carbohydrate (like sugar). Stevia may also be helpful for controlling blood sugar levels, a property that will benefit diabetics, hypoglycemics, and even dieters. Because stevia remains stable when introduced to heat levels, it is suitable for cooking as well, and won’t lead to tooth decay the way sugar can.
Research has also shown that stevia can promote blood vessel expansion, which aids blood flow and lowers blood pressure. Stevia is also believed to have antiviral and antibacterial capabilities.
Unlike many other artificial sweeteners like aspartame, stevia has no known side effects.
This natural sugar substitute comes in both powder and liquid and is commonly added to foods like chewing gum, tea, ice cream, tea, and even some skincare products.