Stevia is an herbal sweetener used as a sugar substitute in the United States. Stevia has not been approved by the Food and Drug Administration, as this government entity doesn't "approve" non-pharmaceutical substances, such as herbs. However, the FDA issued a letter in 2008 noting that it doesn't object to the use of stevia in food preparations. Women who are pregnant should discuss the use of artificial sweeteners, such as stevia, during pregnancy with a doctor.
Precautions
The safety of stevia during pregnancy has not been evaluated by the FDA. For this reason, expectant and lactating women shouldn't use stevia before consulting a physician. Pregnant women who chose to use stevia without asking a medical professional are at risk of developing any of the side effects commonly associated with this sweetener.
Hypersensitive Reaction
The use of stevia may cause a serious allergic reaction called anaphylaxis. The risk of developing this hypersensitive reaction is elevated in people who are allergic to plants that are part of the Asteraceae/Compositae family, such as daises, marigolds and ragweed. Anaphylaxis may cause symptoms of blurred vision, dizziness, facial swelling, rash, vomiting, diarrhea, anxiety, breathing difficulties, trouble swallowing, wheezing or fainting. Pregnant women who exhibit such symptoms require emergency medical attention to ensure receipt of appropriate treatment and care.
Mild Side Effects
Unusual body sensations may arise as a side effect of stevia. You may experience numbness or muscle pain throughout your legs, arms or upper body. Stevia may also irritate your stomach and may induce nausea or bloating. In addition, stevia may cause dizziness, which may make it difficult for you to stand up or walk around normally without assistance. Seek additional care from your physician if these side effects don't subside or become severe.
Drug Interactions
Using stevia may also be inappropriate if you are taking certain prescription drugs. Avoid using stevia if you're taking medications for high blood pressure or diabetes. Stevia may increase the effects of these medications, which may cause severely low blood pressure -- called hypotension -- or low blood sugar -- called hypoglycemia. Both hypotension and hypoglycemia may cause dizziness, headache and fatigue. In addition, don't take lithium in conjunction with stevia. In combination, stevia may make it difficult for your body tonexcrete lithium. Consequently, you may be at risk of developing lithium toxicity due to the presence of high levels of this medication in your body.
