The no-calorie artificial sweetener known as stevia has been available for use in foods and beverages in the United States since 2008. That is when the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced that stevia is "generally recognized as safe." According to the Mayo Clinic, this declaration most likely assures that stevia is safe when used in moderation (defined as no more than one or two servings per day). However, its safety remains in question for certain groups of people.
Effects
Stevia is a South American herb that has been used for many years as a sweetener in other areas of the world. Its extract is some 200 to 300 times sweeter than regular table sugar. According to Stevia Info, stevia leaves are filled with nutrients (magnesium, potassium, selenium, zinc and Vitamin B3) that work to that help normalize blood sugar. Since stevia does not increase blood sugar levels, it is often the preferred sweetener for people with diabetes. Stevia is used to sweeten a number of food and beverage items and can also be purchased as a packaged sugar substitute.
Uses
Stevia is used in products, such as dried seafoods, fish meat products and vegetables in places, such as Japan, China and South America. In the U.S., stevia is found in teas, protein drinks, candies, gums and energy bars. Some companies combine other natural sweeteners (sugar alcohol erythritol, carbohydrate maltodextrin) with stevia to cover up its somewhat bitter aftertaste. Stevia is also sold as a dietary supplement. Talk to your doctor about the correct dosage for your needs.
Precautions and Side Effects
The Mayo Clinic advises that pregnant women or mothers who are breast feeding should refrain from using stevia--based sweeteners until further research is conducted. In addition, people who take medications for hypertension (high blood pressure) should avoid stevia until its potential interactions are determined.
The side effects associated with stevia are typically mild. They include a sense of fullness, bitter aftertaste, bloating, gas and possible nausea.
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