Stevia is another "no-calorie" sweetener in a long line of sweeteners that can be used instead of sugar to sweeten foods and beverages. It's formulated from the extract of the Stevia rebaudiana plant, an herb often referred to as the sweetleaf. As of 2008, it was made available by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for commercial use. And much like many herbs or herbal supplements, there's the potential for adverse effects on the body. But due to the limited time stevia has been available, the actual effects of long-term use is still unknown.
Digestive Issues
One of the potential effects of stevia consumption, be it short-term or long-term, involves the process of digestion. There is the potential that the extract could cause some nausea or upset stomach as well as some bloating in people, according to the U.S. Army Center for Health Promotion and Preventive Medicine. When you cease using the herb, you should experience an improvement in your condition.
Metabolic Issues
Some potential exists that stevia could eventually affect your metabolism. Based on information from the Centers for Science in the Public Interest, the herb has shown some indication that it may impede nutrient absorption within the digestive tract. When this occurs, it could change your metabolism and affect energy levels, resulting in fatigue or exhaustion. Further studies are necessary to determine whether or not this could happen in people.
Cognitive Issues
Another side effect of stevia use involves a person's perception. For some people, the ingestion of stevia may lead to periods of dizziness or lightheadedness. Much like with nausea or bloating, you should see an improvement in your condition after you cease using the substance.
Blood Pressure
Stevia may also have an effect on your blood pressure, especially when consumed with blood pressure medications. According to the Mayo Clinic, stevia may interact with these types of medications and cause your blood pressure to drop to an abnormally low level, more commonly known as hypotension. This may result in dizziness, weakness, fatigue, blurred vision, nausea, thirst and respiratory changes. If left untreated, you may suffer cardiovascular damage or even brain damage.
Blood Sugar
It is also possible to experience a drop in blood sugar levels when you consume stevia with standard diabetes medications. Often referred to as hypoglycemia, this condition is a sudden or marked drop in blood sugar, resulting in an altered state of mind (like confusion or abnormal behaviors), double vision, blurred vision, heart palpitations, sweating and even loss of consciousness. If hypoglycemia is left untreated, you may suffer a seizure or can even die.
Muscular Issues
Sometimes, stevia use can lead to issues with your muscular system. According to the U.S. Army Center for Health Promotion and Preventive Medicine, this can be experienced as weakness or tenderness.
