Stevia is a natural sweetener promoted as a healthy substitute to traditional sweeteners, such as sugar and honey. This sweet substance is derived from an herb native to Paraguay and Brazil called Stevia rebaudiana. Though stevia has no calories and doesn't cause blood sugar fluctuations like traditional sweeteners, there are safety concerns associated with this sugar substitute.
Mild Side Effects
One of the constituents of stevia is stevioside, a compound that may cause stomach irritation, nausea or bloating. These stomach-related side effects may cause a temporary decrease in your usual appetite. After consuming this sweetener, you may also experience mild dizziness, body aches or numbness. Sensations of dizziness may interfere with your ability to move about normally without assistance and may be most apparent when you stand up. Though these side effects are typically temporary, contact your medical provider if they persist or increase in severity.
Hypersensitivity Reaction
Avoid using stevia if you are allergic to this sweetener or have an allergy to ragweed, daises, marigolds or chrysanthemums. Exposure to stevia may cause a severe allergic reaction called anaphylaxis in people hypersensitive to this herb. Anaphylaxis symptoms include shortness of breath, wheezing, chest pain, hives, difficulty swallowing, weakness, pale skin and fainting. Seek emergency medical care immediately if any of these anaphylaxis symptoms arise after you consume stevia. Without prompt medical intervention, this type of allergic reaction may cause life-threatening health complications.
Interactions with other Medications
Stevia may interact with other medications you are taking. Let your doctor know what drugs or supplements you are taking before using stevia. Do not use stevia in conjunction with high blood pressure or diabetes medications. Stevia may enhance the effects of these prescription drugs, which may elevate your risk of developing a significant drop in your blood pressure or blood sugar. Additionally, using stevia while you are taking lithium may make it harder for your body to metabolize and excrete toxic byproducts of this medication.
Contraindications
If you have certain health conditions or concerns, using stevia may not be appropriate for you. Do not use this natural sweetener if you are breast-feeding or pregnant. The safety of stevia has yet to be evaluated in women who are pregnant.
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