Stevia is a great alternative to common table sugar or artificial sweeteners. Regular sugar can wreak havoc on your blood sugar while artificial sweeteners are derived from chemicals and may be harmful to your health. Derived from the leaves of the Stevia rebaudiana plant, stevia is natural and has a negligible effect on blood glucose levels and is available as a powder or liquid.
Baking
Stevia is great for baking, since it stands up to around 400 degrees F. Since stevia is around 300 times sweeter than normal sugar, it is best to replace 1 cup sugar with 1/2 tsp. stevia extract powder. When substituting stevia for sugar, 1/2 cup liquid needs to be added for every 1 cup sugar replaced. You can try applesauce, water or fruit juice.
Salad Dressings
It can be difficult to find a tasty sugar-free dressing at the grocery store. To make a fresh, flavorful and natural Italian dressing, blend 3 tbsp. extra virgin olive oil, 2 tbsp. balsamic vinegar, 1 tbsp. lemon juice, 6 drops unflavored stevia liquid and 1 tsp. each of pepper, dried oregano and dried basil. You can try mixing this in a jar with a screw-on top. Shake well.
Lattes
Coffee shops usually offer only sugar sweeteners or chemical sweeteners. Save a few bucks and make a healthier hot drink at home. Try brewing some strong coffee and mixing it with warmed cow or soy milk. Many stevia manufacturers make fun flavors like toffee and vanilla. Add just a few drops of your favorite flavor for a natural, sugar-free drink.
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