Is Stevia safe to consume

Is Stevia Safe to Consume?

The safety of stevia has been a topic of much debate over the years. However, numerous studies have been conducted to investigate the safety of stevia consumption, and the results have generally been positive.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved the use of stevia as a sweetener, stating that it is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) for use in food. In addition, the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives (JECFA) have also concluded that stevia is safe for human consumption.

Stevia and Blood Sugar

One of the main benefits of using stevia as a sweetener is that it has a negligible effect on blood sugar levels. This makes it a great alternative to sugar for people with diabetes or those who are trying to maintain stable blood sugar levels.

A study published in the Journal of Medicinal Food found that stevia consumption resulted in lower postprandial glucose levels compared to sucrose (table sugar). The study also found that stevia consumption did not cause a significant increase in insulin levels, indicating that stevia may be beneficial for people with insulin resistance.

Stevia and Weight Management

Stevia is a low-calorie sweetener that can be used in place of sugar to reduce overall calorie intake. A study published in the journal Appetite found that stevia consumption reduced calorie intake and decreased hunger levels compared to sugar consumption.

Another study published in the Journal of Nutrition found that stevia consumption reduced food intake and increased satiety, leading to a reduction in overall calorie intake.

Stevia and Tooth Health

Sugar is a major contributor to tooth decay and cavities. Stevia, on the other hand, has been shown to have antibacterial properties that can help prevent tooth decay.

A study published in the Journal of Applied Microbiology found that stevia extracts were effective in inhibiting the growth of several bacteria that are associated with tooth decay.

Stevia and Pregnancy

While stevia is generally considered safe for consumption, some people may wonder if it is safe to consume during pregnancy. According to the American Pregnancy Association, stevia is safe to consume during pregnancy in moderation.

However, it is important to note that not all sweeteners are safe for pregnant women. Aspartame, for example, should be avoided during pregnancy.

Stevia and Allergies

Stevia is derived from a plant, which means that it is a natural substance. While allergies to stevia are rare, some people may have an allergic reaction to other substances in the stevia product they are consuming.

If you have a known allergy to ragweed, daisies, or marigolds, you may want to avoid stevia, as these plants are in the same family as the stevia plant.

Conclusion

Stevia is a safe and healthy alternative to sugar for people who want to reduce their sugar intake. It has numerous benefits, including its low-calorie content, negligible effect on blood sugar levels, and potential benefits for weight management and tooth health.

If you are considering incorporating stevia into your diet, be sure to choose a reputable brand and use it in moderation. As with any food or beverage, it is important to maintain a balanced and varied diet to ensure that you are getting all the nutrients your body needs.