Many mistakenly refer to stevia as an artificial sweetener, but there is nothing artificial about it. Stevia is an herbal shrub that is native to countries in South America. For thousands of years it has been used as a sweetener, as it is between 200 and 300 times sweeter than table sugar. Stevia is not only beneficial as a sweetening agent, however. It also offers many health benefits.
Reduces and Controls Blood Sugar
Stevia has been found in scientific studies to benefit those with type 2 diabetes, and those who wish to avoid type 2 diabetes. In the January 2004 issue of "Metabolism," researchers supplemented the meals of the diabetic subjects with 1 g of stevia or 1 g of a control substance. Those that had the stevia showed that they had an increased response to insulin in the blood, and a lower blood sugar level. The researchers conclude that stevia has an overall beneficial affect on the metabolism of glucose within the body, which can help control blood sugar.
Reduces Blood Pressure
Not only does stevia help reduce blood sugar, it has been found to have a part in the reduction of high blood pressure as well. According to a report from the US Army Directorate of Health Promotion and Wellness, stevia, when given in the amount of 250 mg twice a day, is found to have a significant blood pressure lowering affect.
Dental Health Benefits
Stevia contains no sugar, which automatically makes it a better alternative for your teeth, as sugar promotes tooth decay. A report in "Oral Health Initiative," a program from the American Association of Pediatrics, states that a study done by Purdue University researchers shows that stevia not only does not cause tooth decay, it helps fight it by preventing plaque from developing upon the tooth's surface. Diabetes Health reports that stevia destroys streptococcus mutans, which is a bacteria in the mouth that helps form dental plaque.
Other Health Benefits
Even with the benefits listed above, stevia offers even more reasons to add it to your dietary routine. A report in the January, 2009 issue of "Pharmacology and Therapeutics" states that the many components of stevia leaf also offer other medical benefits, as they have anti-diarrheal, anti-cancer and anti-inflammatory effects. They are also reported to strengthen the immune system.
Weight Loss
When looking at the health benefits of stevia, we can't forget the one that most people are interested in: weight loss. Stevia can help with any weight loss program, as it is an alternative to sugar. Using stevia in your coffee, or to sweeten your cereal, is a great way to help with a weight loss program.
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