You may be asking, is stevia healthy for you? Stevia is a popular natural sweetener that offers a range of benefits for those looking to reduce their sugar intake. Here’s an overview of Stevia’s advantages.
Stevia and Weight Loss: Stevia is virtually calorie-free, making it an excellent alternative for individuals seeking to manage their calorie intake and weight. Sometimes referred to as ‘candyleaf’. Stevia is an excellent tool for aiding in weight loss.
Blood Sugar Control: Stevia doesn’t raise blood sugar levels, making it a suitable option for people with diabetes or those looking to regulate their blood sugar.
No Impact on Dental Health: Unlike sugar, stevia doesn’t promote tooth decay or cavities, making it a tooth-friendly option for those concerned about oral health.
Stevia Plant Benefits: is derived from the leaves of the Stevia rebaudiana plant, making it a natural sweetener choice for those who prefer plant-based options.
High Sweetness Intensity: Stevia is much sweeter than sugar, so a small amount can go a long way in terms of sweetness.
Weight Management: Due to its low calorie content, stevia can be a helpful tool for those looking to manage their weight without sacrificing sweetness.
Potential Antioxidant Properties: Some studies suggest that certain compounds in stevia may have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, though more research is needed to fully understand these effects.
“The Stevia plant, a small perennial shrub, is native to South America and related to the sunflower family. It is often known as Honey-leaf, Sweet-leaf, or Sweet-herb.”
Healthy Ways to Enjoy Stevia‘s Benefits
Pure Stevia Extract: Use a very small amount, as stevia is much sweeter than sugar. A little goes a long way.
Liquid Stevia: Liquid forms are convenient for adding sweetness to beverages and recipes. Be sure to follow the product’s instructions for usage. Green tea is perfect with Stevia! Learn more about green tea here.
Blends: Stevia blends that combine with other natural sweeteners can provide a balanced flavor profile.
Baking: Stevia may not behave like sugar in recipes that rely on its bulk, caramelization, or structure. Look for recipes specifically designed for stevia if you’re baking.
Taste Sensitivity: Some people might detect a slight aftertaste with stevia. Taste preferences can vary, so experiment to find what works best for you.
Keep in mind that individual reactions to sweeteners, even natural ones like stevia, can differ. If you have specific health concerns, it’s wise to consult with a healthcare professional before incorporating new sweeteners into your diet. Enjoy the sweetness and benefits of stevia as part of a balanced approach to eating!
Are you interested in other easy ways to add more healthy foods to your diet? Check out more of my eating well articles Here.
Kristina McInerny
About The Writer:
Kristina McInerny has been diabetic for over 25 years and has been a Certified Optavia Coach for 3 years. Formerly, she was an IT Project Manager with an MBA in Business and needed a new focus in retirement. She chose health coaching; teaching healthy habits and coaching people to fuel a healthy future. Kris lives in Hendersonville, NC in the summers and in St. James City, FL in the winters. Her hobbies include hiking, traveling and playing pickleball and ping pong with her husband Matt as well as volunteering at C.O.A. in NC and P.I.C.C. Thrift Mall in FL. She manages a few websites on the side to keep her tech skills up to date.