Stevia – The healthier sugar alternative?

Stevia is a hot topic when it comes to healthy alternatives to conventional sugar. But what exactly is behind this natural sweetener, where does it come from, and is it really a better choice for your diet? Find the answers here.

What is Stevia?

Stevia, also known as Stevia rebaudiana, is a plant native to South America. The leaves of this plant contain natural sweeteners called steviol glycosides, which are up to 300 times sweeter than conventional sugar—and without any calories. Stevia has been used as a natural sweetener by indigenous peoples for centuries.

How is Stevia obtained?

To use stevia as a sweetener, the plant's leaves are harvested, dried, and processed into a powder or liquid. This process ensures that the steviol glycosides are isolated and purified. This concentrated form of stevia is what you find in most products today.

Healthier than sugar?

The question of whether stevia is healthier than sugar depends on several factors. Here's a comparison:

1. Calorie-free : Stevia contains no calories, while sugar contains about 4 calories per gram. This makes it particularly attractive for people watching their weight.

2. Blood sugar friendly : Stevia doesn't affect blood sugar levels, making it a good choice for diabetics. Sugar, on the other hand, can quickly raise blood sugar levels.

3. Dental health : Stevia doesn't cause cavities because it isn't metabolized by bacteria in the mouth. Sugar, on the other hand, promotes the formation of plaque and cavities.

Are there any disadvantages?

Despite the many advantages, there are also aspects that you should consider:

• Taste : Stevia has a slightly bitter aftertaste that not everyone likes.

• Processing : Some products contain additives or are heavily processed, which can reduce the natural benefits of stevia.

• Dosage : Because stevia is extremely sweet, precise dosing is important. Too much can quickly make the taste unpleasant.

Where is Stevia used?

Stevia is found in many foods and beverages, including:

• Soft drinks : Sugar-free lemonades often contain stevia.

• Baked goods : Many low-calorie recipes contain stevia instead of sugar.

• Yogurts and desserts : Stevia is used here to reduce the sugar content.

• Coffee and tea : As a natural sweetener, Stevia is ideal for hot drinks.
  

• VANILLA GLOW PROTEIN: After considering the alternatives, we decided on Stevia as a sweetener.

Conclusion: A good alternative?

Stevia is a promising alternative to sugar, especially for people looking to cut calories, stabilize their blood sugar, or improve their dental health. However, you should be careful to choose products with as few additives as possible and use stevia in moderation.

Whether stevia is the right choice for you ultimately depends on your individual preferences and nutritional goals. Give it a try and discover how versatile this natural sweetener can be!