Stevia Strength Compared To Sucrose

Because sugar affects the body's blood glucose levels, many turn to artificial or natural sweeteners to reduce the amount of calories in a food. One example of a natural sweetener is stevia, which is derived from the stevia plant. Because stevia is a stronger sweetener than sucrose, you will use less of it in recipes.

History

The stevia plant, Stevia rebaudiana, is a member of the Chrysanthemum family and originates in South America. The United States Food & Drug Administration approved rebaudioside A, a sweet component of the stevia plant, for sale as a sugar substitute in 2008. While other forms are available on the market as dietary supplements, this is the only FDA-approved version.

Sweetness

Stevia is an estimated 300 times sweeter than sucrose, according to The Ohio State University. In addition to being significantly sweeter than sucrose, stevia is low in calories and carbohydrates when compared to sucrose. While sucrose is associated with raising blood sugar levels, stevia has no effect on these levels and it takes less for it to sweeten.

Conversion

Because stevia is most often sold in packets, sucrose to stevia conversions are often measured in terms of unit measurement to packet. One stevia packet contains roughly 1/2 tsp. of stevia. One packet of stevia is equivalent to 2 tsp. of sugar, while six packets of stevia are equal to 1/4 cup of sugar. However, stevia strengths can vary from one brand to another. For this reason, always look for a conversion chart on the packaging.

Uses

Stevia can be used as a sugar substitute in recipes, particularly dessert recipes. Generally, you can substitute 24 packets of stevia for every 1 cup of sugar or brown sugar in a recipe, according to Texas AgriLife Extension Service. Stevia can be added to desserts, gum, candy, yogurt or added to drinks. You also can keep stevia on your tabletop as a replacement sweetener for sugar.

Safety

Because of stevia's effects as a sugar substitute, it may be utilized as a sweetener replacement by those significantly affected by sugar such as those with diabetes or hypertension. While the USDA-approved form of stevia, rebaudioside A, is considered safe for use for the general, healthy population, speak to your physician if you have diabetes or high blood pressure before consuming stevia. This helps ensure you will not experience adverse reactions when you consume stevia. Stevia also may not be safe for pregnant or nursing women and should be consumed with caution.