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Home >
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Supplement Articles |
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STEVIA
Articles by a Naturopathic
Doctor ( N.D.)
Stevia is becoming well-known in the world of sugar substitutes as a healthy (and sweeter!) alternative ... |
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STEVIA |
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Stevia is a natural sugar substitute with health benefits |
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The stevia rebaudiana plant is native to South America, where it has been used as a sweetener for hundreds of years. The leaf of the plant contains stevosides, a glycoside that gives stevia its strong sweetness.
Stevia is safe to use in diabetes. A non-caloric sweetener, it does not cause elevations in blood sugar the same way table sugar and other natural sugars do. It is low on the glycemic index. |
Some studies are even suggesting it may be used in high doses to treat type I and II diabetes by helping to lower blood sugar. The research is not conclusive and has not yet shown a lowering effect on HbA1C, a better long-term measure of blood sugar levels. Stevia has also been shown to have minor blood pressure lowering effects, but again, the research is not conclusive. Stevia does not cause tooth decay.
Stevia can easily be used as a substitute for sugar in baking. Keep in mind it is more sweet than sugar, so you most likely will want to use less. It can be used to sweeten teas or coffee, and has been added to a number of supplements, in order to improve taste, without compromising nutrition.
Stevia, unlike many other sugar alternatives, is completely safe and relatively side effect free. Some individuals have reported nausea, bloating, dizziness and some numbness associated with long-term use. These side effects subsided as soon when the product was discontinued. Individuals who have an existing ragweed allergy may also be allergic to stevia. Stevia is not recommended during pregnancy or while breastfeeding, as currently there is not enough research to confirm its safety. If you are currently taking medication to lower blood glucose or blood pressure, be cautious to monitor these readings when using stevia long term.
Stevia is sold in powdered form, either in individual servings, or in bulk. It can also be found in a liquid form, either in a base of alcohol or an alcohol free version. |
STEVIA –
QUICK FACTS
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PARTS USED
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· Leaf |
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INDICATIONS |
· When needing a sugar alternative. |
OPTIMUM
DOSAGE |
· As stevia is said to be significantly sweeter than sugar, start low and work up to taste. |
WORKS WELL WITH
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· Coffee, tea, and in baking as a sugar substitute. |
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IMPORTANT
INFORMATION
click for products |
· Stevia is considered safe as a food additive. There are very few side effects associated with its use. It has been shown to lower blood glucose and blood pressure levels. Use with caution if you are currently taking medication with similar actions. |
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All articles
copyright National Nutrition 2008 -
2011. For educational
purposes only. Please note
that while National Nutrition
supports your right to use
natural health care products for
any therapeutic purpose that you
see fit, that the information on
this website should not be
considered as a claim or as a
substitute for medical advice. |
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