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Stevia Powdered Extract

Also known as: Stevia, Sweet Leaf, Stevia Leaf Powder, Steviol Glycosides, *Stevia rebaudiana*

Overview

Stevia, scientifically known as *Stevia rebaudiana*, is a plant indigenous to South America, recognized for its sweet leaves. It is predominantly utilized as a non-nutritive sweetener with minimal calories, making it popular among those seeking sugar alternatives. Research on Stevia has expanded over the years, investigating its potential health benefits, particularly in areas such as diabetes management and blood pressure regulation. While several studies have observed promising results linked to its active components, namely steviol glycosides, the quality and outcomes of these studies vary significantly. This underscores the moderate level of research maturity associated with Stevia, indicating both opportunities and uncertainties in its therapeutic utilization.

Benefits

Stevia is primarily recognized for its ability to lower blood glucose levels, primarily benefiting diabetic patients. A notable study indicated that consumption of 1 gram of Stevia leaf powder daily for 60 days resulted in a significant decrease in fasting blood glucose levels among individuals with type 2 diabetes. Additionally, meta-analysis has demonstrated that Stevia may lead to meaningful reductions in systolic blood pressure, indicating its potential as an adjunctive treat for hypertension. Furthermore, some research suggests Stevia may positively impact gut microbiota, suggesting potential metabolic and cognitive benefits. However, its influence on appetite and energy intake appears minimal and less significant in healthy adults.

How it works

The anti-diabetic and blood pressure-lowering effects of Stevia are attributed to its active compounds, which enhance insulin sensitivity and do not elevate blood glucose levels. These steviol glycosides may also exert their effects on vascular function, thus potentially contributing to blood pressure regulation. By modulating gut microbiota and influencing metabolic pathways, Stevia’s consumption may foster improved glycemic control and overall metabolic health.

Side effects

Stevia is generally regarded as safe when consumed according to established acceptable daily intake limits. While no significant side effects are consistently reported, gastrointestinal discomfort has been observed in some users, indicating a degree of variability in individual tolerance. There are no well-documented rare side effects, but there is potential for interactions with antihypertensive medications due to its blood pressure-lowering properties. While no specific contraindications are established, caution is advised in pregnant and breastfeeding women due to insufficient safety data. Diabetic patients should remain vigilant regarding their blood sugar levels when incorporating Stevia into their diet, particularly if other medications or dietary changes are also employed.

Dosage

The optimal dosage of Stevia for health benefits typically ranges between 250 mg to 1 gram per day, with the minimum effective dose not definitively established, largely because it is commonly utilized as a sweetener. It is widely considered safe when consumed within the safety thresholds of acceptable daily intake; however, consumers should be aware of bioavailability variations depending on the form of Stevia (e.g., powder vs. extracts). No specific timing requirements for intake have been identified, making it versatile for daily use. Stevia can be integrated as a sweetener in various food and beverage applications without significant concern for timing.

FAQs

Is Stevia safe to use?

Stevia is generally safe for most people but may interact with certain medications, particularly those for blood pressure.

Can pregnant women use Stevia?

Consult a healthcare provider before using Stevia during pregnancy or breastfeeding due to limited safety data.

When should I take Stevia?

There are no specific timing recommendations, as Stevia can be included in your diet as a sweetener at any time.

What benefits can I expect from Stevia?

Potential benefits include lowered blood glucose and blood pressure, particularly in diabetic and hypertensive individuals.

Does Stevia affect appetite?

Research indicates that Stevia does not significantly impact appetite or energy intake in adults.

Research Sources

https://www.mdpi.com/2076-3921/13/6/692 – This systematic review and meta-analysis evaluated the effects of Stevia on metabolic parameters, influencing gut microbiota and potential anti-diabetic effects. The review included 36 clinical trials and highlighted variations in results across studies, indicating a moderate quality of evidence.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39887829/ – Another systematic review assessed 11 clinical trials focusing on the impact of Stevia on appetite. The review concluded that Stevia does not significantly affect appetite scores, although it acknowledged the limitations of available long-term data.
https://www.alzdiscovery.org/uploads/cognitive_vitality_media/Stevia_(food_drink)_.pdf – A randomized controlled trial examined the effects of Stevia in 20 patients with type 2 diabetes. It reported significant reductions in fasting and postprandial blood glucose levels over a 60-day period, despite the small sample size limiting the generalizability of findings.