If you have concerns about how stevia products are processed, research the brand you enjoy. Water extraction, along with crystallization and purification, is the most common processing method for making the leap from a green leaf to a white powder. ( 17) What are the differences between sugar and stevia? Stevia and sugar are very similar in two areas: taste and origin. They are both all-natural and provide sweetness to whatever they are added to. Other than that, these two ingredients are light-years away from each other. On average, sugar contains about 4 calories per serving and has a glycemic index of about 63. It will lead to a significant increase in blood glucose levels shortly after consumption. Some research indicates that stevia may be a safe and effective way to help manage blood sugar levels in people with type 2 diabetes. Those who follow a keto, gluten-free, organic, or vegan diet. This product is suitable for those particular diets Does stevia negatively affect your gut flora? A 2019 study showed stevia might negatively affect gut flora, by negatively affecting the healthy bacteria ( 27).

For a long time KAL Sure Stevia was on top of the market with its sweet, 100% pure stevia extract. Now, however, they’ve mixed their stevia with maltodextrin, much to the chagrin of former KAL enthusiasts. Splenda, the brand name for sucralose, has a tag line that it’s “made from sugar” (which it is). But it’s 600 times sweeter than sugar. Stevia can help cut down on added sugar consumption, which could be especially beneficial for children.

Liquid Stevia Sweetener

Still, ingredients that fall under the “natural flavor” umbrella may be highly processed. Many argue that this means there’s nothing natural about them.

It’s found naturally in foods like fruits and mushrooms, and it can also be produced by fermenting the simple sugars found in corn with yeast. Erythritol can also be made by the body from glucose ( 1). Mayo Clinic: “What is stevia? I’ve heard it's good for weight control,” "Possible health benefits of sugar alcohols," "Artificial Sweeteners: Any Effect on Blood Sugar?" However, animal studies suggest that this sweetener — in the form of steviol glycosides like Reb A — does not negatively impact fertility or pregnancy outcomes when used in moderation ( 13). In fact, many stevia products have very little stevia in them at all. Reb-A is about 200 times sweeter than table sugar. Steviol glycosides like Reb A have been approved by the FDA. However, it’s especially important to monitor intake in kids ( 8).A healthy weight management program. It may help you lose weight and lower your risk of obesity and related health conditions. But some studies have shown weight gain due to how the brain reacts to sweetness with signs to eat more. More studies are needed to confirm weight loss benefits. Thanks to the surge of emerging scientific evidence suggesting that excessive sugar consumption is bad for your health, many people are turning to stevia for sweetness in their foods and drinks. It may seem strange that a highly refined product is considered safer than a natural one. This is a common mystery with herbal products. Stevia is an all-natural sugar substitute that has no documented side effects. It’s great news for people with a sweet tooth who are trying to cut down on their sugar consumption. In addition, the stevia plant contains compounds that have been associated with a number of health benefits, like lower blood pressure and LDL cholesterol. If you’re looking for an alternative to white sugar, stevia is one of the best bets you’ll find in today’s health food marketplace.