Stevia is a natural sweetener and is growing in popularity due to its benefits.
Stevia is a natural sweetener extracted from the leaves of the Stevia rebaudiana plant. With zero calories, it’s growing in popularity as a healthy alternative to sugar, making it an excellent choice for those trying to lose weight or control their sugar intake. Now let’s understand how stevia is a healthier alternative to sugar.
Some of the benefits of consuming stevia are listed below.
1. Great for weight loss
One of the main benefits of stevia is its low calorie content. This is because the sweet compounds in stevia called steviol glycosides are not processed or broken down in the same way as sugar. Instead, they pass through the digestive tract and are excreted in the urine without being absorbed or converted to glucose. As a result, stevia does not contribute to weight gain or other related health problems such as obesity and cardiovascular disease.
2. Helps regulate blood sugar levels
Another advantage of stevia is that it does not affect blood sugar levels. This is especially important for diabetics, as high blood sugar levels can lead to various health complications such as nerve damage, kidney damage, and cardiovascular disease. However, stevia does not affect blood sugar levels because it does not stimulate the release of insulin, a hormone that helps regulate blood sugar levels. This means that it can be used safely by diabetics as well as those at risk of developing diabetes.
3. May Improve Oral Health
Sugar is notorious for causing cavities and causing various dental health problems. However, unlike sugar, stevia does not promote tooth decay. In fact, it may even have a positive effect on oral health by inhibiting the growth of bacteria in your mouth.
4. May have anti-inflammatory properties
Several studies suggest that stevioside, one of the major steviol glycosides in stevia, may have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. This means it may reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as cancer, Alzheimer’s, and heart disease. Another compound in stevia called rebaudioside A has been shown to have antibacterial properties, which means it helps fight harmful bacteria and viruses.
5. May have anti-cancer properties
Some studies suggest that stevia may have anticancer properties. This is because it contains compounds that prevent cancer cells from growing. A published study found that steviol dramatically slowed the development of gastrointestinal cancer cells in humans. Studies have shown that steviol may have chemotherapeutic properties.
In conclusion, stevia is a natural sweetener and is growing in popularity as a healthy alternative to sugar. It’s an excellent choice not only for those trying to lose weight or control their sugar intake, but also for those with diabetes or those at risk of developing diabetes.
Disclaimer: This content, including advice, is for general information only. It is in no way a substitute for a qualified medical opinion. For more information, always consult a specialist or your doctor. NDTV is not responsible for this information.
