Stevia is a natural sweetener alternative to other common, but controversially dangerous chemical sweeteners, such as aspartame and saccharin. The zero-calorie and low-carb -- depending on the brand -- sweetener comes from the leaves of the stevia plant, Stevia rebaudiana, which has been grown and used for centuries in Paraguay and Brazil. Since the body does not metabolize the glycosides from the leaf, there is no ingestion of calories and no adverse effect on blood sugar levels. This makes it an ideal sugar substitute for diabetics, and those looking for healthier, reduced-sugar diet. As always, speak with a medical professional before embarking on a new regimen that may affect your health.
Stevia as a Sugar Substitute
Step 1
Use stevia to replace sugar in baking recipes. One cup of sugar is equivalent to 1/3 to 1/2 tsp. of stevia extract powder or 1 tsp. of SteviaClear Liquid Stevia.
If using the SteviaPlus fiber packets, 1 cup of sugar may be replaced with 18 to 24 packets.
Step 2
Use stevia to sweeten beverages such as tea or coffee. Replace 1 tsp. of sugar with 1/2 packet of SteviaPlus Fiber Packet, or two to three drops of SteviaClear Liquid Stevia.
Replace 1 tbsp. of sugar with 1 to 1 1/2 packets of the packets, or six to nine drops of the liquid form.
Step 3
Use stevia as a sweetening agent to top desserts or snacks. Sprinkle a dash or approximately 1/2 to 1 packet of stevia powder over yogurt, cold cereal, oatmeal, pudding or grapefruit. Stir in to food of choice for a sweetened, but low-calorie and low-carb selection over high-calorie sugar, honey and maple syrup, or as an alternative to chemical additives such as aspartame.
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