What Is Stevia? Natural Stevia vs Processed Stevia

 

The leaves of the Stevia rebaudiana plant are used to make stevia, a natural sweetener. It is a popular alternative to sugar, as it is much sweeter than sugar but contains zero calories and has a minimal impact on blood sugar levels.

If you're looking for a way to sweeten your food and drinks without adding extra calories or compromising your health, stevia may be the perfect solution.

One of the best things about stevia is that it is completely natural, and is not processed or refined like most artificial sweeteners. This means that it is free from chemicals and artificial ingredients that can be found in other sweeteners.

Stevia is also heat-stable, so it can be used in cooking and baking without losing its sweetness or affecting the taste of the final product.

Another benefit of stevia is that it is a great option for people with diabetes, as it does not affect blood sugar levels like sugar does. This makes it a safe and healthy choice for diabetics and those who are looking to manage their blood sugar levels.

Asking ourselves if stevia is Safe?

Stevia is generally considered safe to consume. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved the use of stevia as a food additive and it is widely used as a sweetener in many countries around the world.

A number of studies have been conducted on the safety of stevia, and the results have been largely positive. Stevia has been found to have no significant adverse effects on blood sugar or insulin levels, and it does not appear to have any negative impact on heart health.

However, as with any food additive, it is always best to consume stevia in moderation. Some people may be sensitive to the compounds found in stevia, and it is possible to have an allergic reaction to it. Also, excessive consumption of stevia may lead to mild side effects such as bloating, dizziness, and headaches.

It is also worth noting that not all stevia products are created equal. Some products may contain added ingredients or fillers that may not be safe for consumption. So, it is always best to check the label and choose products that are pure and made with high-quality stevia extract.

Overall, Stevia is considered safe to consume, the FDA has approved it as a food additive and a lot of studies have shown that it doesn't have significant adverse effects on health, but it's best to consume it in moderation and choose high-quality products.

Natural stevia vs Processed Stevia

Natural stevia is made by extracting the sweet compounds from the leaves of the Stevia rebaudiana plant. The extract is then usually dried, and can be used as a sweetener in a variety of different products.

Processed stevia, on the other hand, is created by chemically altering the extracted stevia compounds to create a more potent sweetener. This process can involve the use of solvents and other chemicals, which can change the taste and purity of the final product.

The main difference between natural and processed stevia is that natural stevia is considered to be purer and more natural, as it is made from the leaves of the stevia plant, and does not involve any chemical processing. Processed stevia, on the other hand, may contain added ingredients and chemicals, which can affect the taste, purity and overall health effects.

Natural stevia is considered to be healthier, as it is more realistic, not chemically processed, and is closer to its natural form, it also tends to be less sweet than processed stevia, and its taste may vary depending on the quality of the leaves used.

Processed Stevia, on the other hand, is considered to be more potent, and sweeter, and can be found in different forms such as powders, liquids, and tablets.

In conclusion, Natural Stevia is purer, more natural, and healthier, while Processed Stevia is considered more potent, sweeter, and may contain added ingredients and chemicals. It's best to check the label and look for high-quality products when choosing between natural and processed stevia.

Benefits of stevia

Stevia is a natural sweetener that offers a number of benefits over traditional sugar:

1. Zero calories: Stevia is much sweeter than sugar, meaning you can use less of it to achieve the same level of sweetness. Because it contains no calories, it is an excellent option for those looking to lose weight or maintain a healthy diet.

2. Low impact on blood sugar: Stevia has a minimal impact on blood sugar levels, making it a great option for diabetics and those looking to manage their blood sugar.

3. Natural: Stevia is derived from the leaves of the Stevia rebaudiana plant, making it a natural alternative to artificial sweeteners.

4. Heat-stable: Stevia can be used in cooking and baking without losing its sweetness or affecting the taste of the final product.

5. Tooth-friendly: Stevia does not contribute to tooth decay like sugar does.

6. Variety of forms: Stevia is available in different forms like liquid, powder, and granulated, making it easy to use in a variety of ways.

7. Long shelf life: Stevia has a long shelf life, it doesn't go bad like natural sweeteners such as honey.

8. Safe for pregnant women and children: Stevia is considered safe for pregnant women and children to consume.

9. Can help reduce sugar cravings: Stevia can help reduce sugar cravings, making it easier to stick to a healthy diet.

Overall, Stevia is a natural sweetener that provides a healthy alternative to sugar, it is calorie-free, has a low impact on blood sugar, is heat-stable, is tooth-friendly, long shelf life, is safe for pregnant women and children, and can help reduce sugar cravings.