The search for the no-calorie sweetener arguably resembles that of the search for the holy grail. Scientists and consumers alike praise each new candidate only to find a host of controversy about its safety and use and resulting in a list of impostors and caveats. The latest buzz: stevia.
Stevia
Stevia is a subtropical shrub whose leaves contain a long sought-after no-calorie sweetener, its extract is said to be 200 to 300 times sweeter than regular table sugar. As such, very little of the extract needs using and the amount of calories associated are considered negligible. Unlike its current cohorts on the market, stevia sweetener is derived from a plant and not created in a lab. Controversy over its safety has lasted for years, but in 2008, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved the herb to be used as a sweetener Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) for foods and beverages. This broadened the use of the herb from merely a "dietary supplement" to widespread commercial application.
Benefits
A 1997 report on the structure of stevia by Luke Bucci, Ph.D., for Weider Nutrition Group revealed that it contained calcium, phosphorus, quercetin and other bioflavonoids and antioxidants. Bucci also suggests possible clinical uses for stevia, including management of hyperglycemia, glucose tolerance, wound healing and blood pressure.
Controversy
Some claim more research is needed regarding the safety of the herb. In 2005, prior to stevia's FDA approval, the "Harvard Women's Health Watch," stated that the various study findings are difficult to compare as they lack consistency in methodology and dosing.
Since its FDA approval, many health organizations approach the subject with caution. The American Dietetic Association says that although considered safe, there is no evidence so far to show that stevia "offers any clinical advantage over any other non-nutritive sweeteners." In addition, Tufts University says all "artificial sweeteners have had their share of bad press...[and] despite FDA reassurances, the safety of artificial sweeteners remains a question for many."
On the Shelf
Regardless of the scientific debate, stevia has a slightly bitter or "licorice" taste that some people find undesirable. Manufacturers are experimenting with ways to bypass this taste by adding other non-calorie ingredients such as xylitol, a birch or corn-derived sugar, or fragrances to mask the bitterness. Since FDA approval, beverage companies have been scrambling to get stevia products on the shelf. The first to hit stands is Coca-Cola's Sprite Green, touted as "naturally sweetened" with "50% fewer calories than regular sodas." Pepsi has created "Soba Life Water" in three fruit flavors, also "naturally sweetened."
Moderation
Whether you decide to try stevia, current evidence reveals there is no more danger in it than in artificial sweeteners and possibly many benefits. However, all sources recommend using any non-nutritive sweetener in moderation.
References
- Hot Topics; American Dietetic Association; "Stevia;" Julie Upton; Mar 2009
- "Harvard Women's Health Watch"; More about stevia, a non-approved sweetener; December 2005
- Weider Nutrition Group; Report on Structure/Function Claims for Stevia; Luke R. Bucci, Ph.D.; January 1997
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