What Is Stevia Leaf Extract?
- Stevia leaves produce a sweet, calorie-free substance called glycoside stevioside, which is a zero-calorie sweetener. Research studies by the World Health Organization have also shown that stevia leaf extract may be able to decrease blood pressure. It may also be able to stimulate the secretion of insulin in the body and influence the way glucose is transferred and absorbed. However, it is not currently used for anything more than as a sweetener.
- Stevia sweeteners are particularly beneficial to diabetics or other people who need to limit their sugar intake. The sweetening properties of the stevia leaf mean it makes a healthy, natural sugar substitute for those wanting to limit their sugar or calorie intake. Currently, there are no known health benefits from using stevia, but there are a number of benefits such as decreasing blood pressure or regulating glucose and insulin that have yet to be proven.
- There has not been much scientific research done regarding any side effects from using stevia. Empirical evidence from its centuries of use in South America shows no side effects associated with the consumption of stevia. There may be rare effects that doctors are not yet aware of, but for now, it seems to be safe. Currently, no one knows just how much stevia leaf extract can be consumed without negative effects, but as long as you practice moderation, you should not have problems.
- Recently the Food and Drug Administration approved stevia for use as a calorie-free sweetener. Since then it has been added as a sweetener to some diet soft drinks. It is also an approved dietary supplement and sweetener in Australia, New Zealand and Canada. Japan and all of South America permit the use of stevia as a food additive. Currently, stevia leaf extract is banned for use in food in the European Union, Singapore,and Hong Kong.
- You can purchase stevia leaf extract on the Internet, at health-food stores and at select grocery stores, in powder or liquid form. These are the most common forms because they are ideal for cooking. In the United States in 2009, stevia-based sweeteners began being offered for sale in supermarkets, under names such as Truevia, Purevia and another low-calorie mixture of cane sugar and stevia.