Known by the official taxonomy name of “Stevia Rebaudiana”, stevia is a herb in the chrysanthemum and daisy family that grows naturally as a small shrub in parts of South America. The green leaves of this plant contain large amounts of steviosides which
account for its incredible sweetness.
What is Stevia used for and why is it so good for us ?
Stevia is used where a natural herbal sweetening agent is desired without calories or blood sugar effect. This means anyone trying to avoid sugar, hypoglycemics, diabetics, dieters, over-active children, and any other person or group concerned about the over use
of sugar in today’s diets and prepared foods.
Because the human body does not metabolize the sweet glycosides (they pass right through the normal elimination channels) from the leaf or any of its processed forms, the body obtains no calories from Stevia.
Stevia has no calories, does not affect blood sugar (zero glycemic index) and is safe for those with blood sugar swings, hypoglycemia, hyperglycemia and diabetes. An important benefit for hypoglycemics is Stevia’s tonic action which enhances increased energy levels and mental acuity.
Stevia is an exceptional aid in weight loss and weight management because it contains no calories and reduces one’s craving for sweets and fatty foods. Preliminary research data indicates that Stevia may actually reset the hunger mechanism in people where the
pathway between the hypothalamus and the stomach has become obstructed. If so, Stevia would help people to feel satiated sooner, helping them to eat less. Other benefits of adding Stevia to the daily diet include improved digestion and gastrointestinal function, soothed upset stomachs and quicker recovery from minor illness.
Studies have also indicated that Stevia tends to lower elevated blood pressure but does not seem to affect normal blood pressure. It also inhibits the growth and reproduction of some bacteria and other infectious organisms, including the bacteria that cause tooth
decay and gum disease. This may help explain why users of Stevia enhanced products like the Fat Burning Lemonade report a lower incidence of colds and flus.
Comments