If you have a sweet tooth but are concerned about your health, you are likely interested in each new sweetener that comes on the market. Many artificial sweeteners have questionable track records due to their chemical makeups. The herb stevia has garnered attention as an alternative to refined sugar because of its more natural characteristics.
Features
Stevia is a small perennial shrub that is a member of the sunflower family. It originated in South America but is now grown in many other places, including the United States. Stevia is processed commercially as a substitute for refined table sugar. Stevia is a natural product, and is 200 to 300 times sweeter than white sugar. It is typically available as a liquid concentrate or white powdered extract that resembles sugar.
Uses
Stevia can be used in just about any application you would use regular sugar in. This includes breads, muffins, jams, salad dressings, pancakes, cookies, desserts or tea and coffee. Since stevia is so much sweeter than sugar, only a fraction of the amount will be necessary in most recipes. Read the information on the specific form of stevia you have for the correct ratio, or follow a stevia-related recipe.
Benefits
Stevia seems to have several benefits other than its ability to replace sugar in foods and beverages. According to the University of Virginia, stevia is 100 percent natural with zero calories, and may help diabetics control blood sugar. Stevia may also encourage the growth of healthy bacteria in the colon and stomach. Adding it to foods and beverages instead of sugar will also result in a large drop in calories for many people who consume sugar daily, which will lead to weight loss.
Sugar Dangers
The dangers of white sugar are well-known. Consuming refined sugar increases your risk of diabetes, obesity and many inflammation-related conditions. Once the vitamins and minerals have been stripped from sugarcane, you are left with empty calories that leech vitamins and minerals from your body, according to the Global Healing Center.
Considerations
Stevia does cause some concern if you suffer from hypoglycemia or are prone to low blood sugar. Just as it may lower blood sugar for a diabetic, it will also lower the blood sugar of those who have trouble keeping their blood sugar high enough. Consult with your doctor or dietitian if you are planning to use stevia as a sugar replacement.
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