Stevia is a plant related to the chrysanthemum that is native to South America. The extract from the stevia plant is used as a natural alternative to sucrose, or table sugar. Proponents of stevia claim that it can actually benefit your health. However, some studies indicate that consuming too much stevia can harm testosterone levels in male rats.
Health Benefits
Stevia may be beneficial for some consumers because it does not contain sugar. Instead, it has a natural substance called glycosides that tastes 300 times sweeter than sucrose, or table sugar, according to Renee Loux Underkoffler, author of "Living Cuisine." Diabetics can enjoy foods sweetened with stevia without experiencing a spike in blood sugar. Stevia does not harm the teeth or cause cavities. Additionally, stevia may have beneficial effects on the pancreas, according to Underkoffler.
Stevia and Testosterone
Studies such as a 2008 study that appeared in "Revista Peruana de Biología" demonstrate that stevia may affect the plasma testosterone level in lab rats. Scientists believe that the glycosides, or the sweetening substance in stevia, may affect androgen receptors, causing a drop in fertility, according to a 1999 study in the "Journal of Ethnopharmacology:" As of publication time, there is no scientific evidence that demonstrates conclusively that stevia can affect the testosterone levels of human males, however.
Using Stevia
Stevia tastes like sucrose but it has a slight aftertaste that is reminiscent of licorice. Use stevia wherever you would use sugar, such as to sweeten coffee. Cooking with stevia may be more challenging because it reacts differently in foods than sucrose, but you can use it to boost the sweetness of foods such as a simple syrup or to sweeten fruit. If you wish to cook with stevia, keep in mind that it is much sweeter than sugar. Several stevia cookbooks are available if you do not wish to experiment on your own.
When to Consult a Physician
Consult a physician before you use stevia if you have fluctuations or problems with your testosterone levels. Additionally, if you are trying to conceive or if you are pregnant, consult your physician before you use stevia. Because stevia may affect testosterone levels, your physician may recommend that you avoid it if you are pregnant or trying to conceive. While it is not certain if stevia will cause problems with human testosterone levels, your physician may advise that you use a different sugar substitute.
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