Effectiveness of Stevia Leaf as Natural, Calorie & Chemical Free Sweetener
Obtained from the plant Stevia rebaudiana, the Stevia leaf extract is a natural sweetener that has gained immense popularity, especially in the past one decade. This perennial shrub belongs to the Chrysanthemum family, and finds its origin in tropical regions of Brazil and Paraguay. Owing to its growing fame, even China and Japan have begun a large scale cultivation of Stevia.
About Stevia
The leaves of this plant have been used since centuries by people as a folk medicine to address several health concerns. It comes loaded with some impressive healing properties, such as anti-inflammatory, anti-hypertensive, anti-diarrheal, diuretic, anti-hyperglycemic and immune-modulatory. People would also use it to sweeten their teas and other food products. Only recently has this extract been approved for commercial use, after having been brought under the category of a Generally Recognised as Safe (GRAS) product. When used in moderation, even on regular basis, it does not exhibit any side effects, and not only offers taste, but health too. In this article, we shall learn how.
Composition of Stevia
Stevia contains some naturally occurring components called Steviol glycosides. These sweet tasting chemicals, especially Stevioside and Rebaudioside – A that make Stevia one of the most popular non-caloric and non-glycemic sweeteners available in the markets. To make commercial sweeteners, the dry leaves are steeped and then concentrated to obtain the extract. The end product is sweet, sustainable and high on health quotient. However, it does have a slightly bitter aftertaste, owing to certain natural compounds present in its composition. Therefore, you may need a little ‘getting used to’, before you are ready to include it in your everyday meals, such as your smoothies, cereals, teas and desserts
Stevia for Weight Loss
Stevia leaf extract is natural, non nutritive and is way more sweet in taste compared to the refined, regular sugar that we use. In fact, its sweetness quotient is about 200-300 times sweeter than sugar, which is why we only need to add a little bit of Stevia to make our food or beverage sweet. Only a small amount of Stevia extract is enough to satiate our appetite as well as our sweet tooth, without being followed by any sort of guilt. Also, as it contains close to zero calories, this makes it all the healthier. We all know that consuming added sugars is the leading cause of weight gain and obesity among people from all age groups, the world over. Further, weight gain can lead to a variety of other health complications, some common while others chronic. It is thus understandable that being non nutritive, Stevia contributes to no significant weight-loss even on regular consumption. That is one of the reasons why it has surfaced as an extremely safe substitute for sugar.
Stevia for Diabetes
Stevia is extremely sweet in taste, but it contains no sugars or carbohydrates as such. Thus, it leads to no rise in the blood glucose, post consumption. Also, it does not affect the way our body responds to insulin. In fact, its consumption often leads to reduced blood glucose. That is perhaps why it is extremely popular among the diabetics as a healthy alternative to sugar and other sweeteners. People, especially those suffering from type II diabetes, can still enjoy sweets and desserts, and do not have to worry about their sugar levels shooting up.
Stevia for General Health
Additionally, some active compounds present in Stevia have the potential to bring down our blood pressure, thus preventing the onset of hypertension, which is another common ailment that usually happens hand in hand with diabetes. At the same time, it has also been found to lower the cholesterol levels in our body, thus in point of fact looking after the health of our heart.
And Lastly..
All said and done, the excess of stevia, as with anything else, can be harmful. It is a herbal supplement, and being all natural, it may contain few compounds which may or may not suit your system. Therefore, do consult your physician before you add stevia to your diet on a regular basis, especially if you are suffering from any existing health condition or sensitivities. Also, invest in the best quality stevia leaf extract. Pregnant ladies and those who are nursing should avoid using this extract, and anything purely herbal for that matter.
About the Author:
Dr Sonica Krishan is Author and Speaker in the areas of Healthy and Joyous Living through Ayurveda, Meditation, Yoga and other Contemplative practices. She is a leading Ayurveda Professional in India. She is also Health Writer, Columnist, Editor, Ayurveda Consultant and Holistic Healing Coach. Dr Sonica is open for National as well as International Collaborations with interested people / institutions in fields of Ayurveda, Meditation and Yoga.
Dr Sonica Krishan’s Books are available at Amazon
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