Cetified Organic Stevia Extract
Also known as: Stevia rebaudiana Bertoni, Sweet Leaf, Sugar Leaf, Stevia
Overview
Stevia, scientifically known as *Stevia rebaudiana* Bertoni, is a plant native to South America recognized for its remarkable sweetening capacity attributed to its glycosides, particularly steviosides and rebaudioside A. It is widely used as a natural low-calorie sweetener in various foods and beverages, and it is believed to possess health benefits, including antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. Extracts of stevia are characterized by their high sweetness level and potential health-promoting properties. While there is a growing body of research investigating its various effects, including its ability to combat oxidative stress and its potential protective role in animal disease models, there is a noted need for more comprehensive human clinical studies to establish definitive health benefits. The available studies vary in quality, primarily consisting of animal research, with meta-analyses indicating promising outcomes regarding its antioxidant properties.
Benefits
Stevia exhibits several evidence-based benefits: - **Antioxidant Activity**: Research has shown that stevia leaf extracts can significantly restore oxidative stress markers (SOD, CAT, GSH, TAC) in diseased animal models, achieving restoration rates between 65% and 85%. This suggests potential protective effects against oxidative damage (high evidence strength). - **Disease Protection**: The antioxidant capabilities of stevia suggest it may confer protection against diseases linked to oxidative stress, particularly in diabetic animal models. - **Anti-Inflammatory and Antimicrobial Effects**: Though more speculative, there are indications of potential anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial actions, warranting further investigation. - **Population-Specific Benefits**: Diabetic individuals may particularly benefit from stevia due to its impact on oxidative stress. However, the clinical significance in humans is not fully established yet due to the lack of extensive human studies.
How it works
Stevia glycosides primarily exert their sweetness by interacting with sweet taste receptors on the tongue, providing an alternative to traditional sugars without the associated calories. The antioxidant activity of stevia extracts is believed to stem from their ability to reduce oxidative stress markers in biological tissues. Additionally, it may influence gut health by inhibiting bacterial communication without killing gut bacteria, enhancing potential health benefits.
Side effects
Stevia is generally regarded as safe for consumption, especially in its highly purified forms. Commonly reported side effects are rare (less than 1%), with limited evidence suggesting minimal adverse effects. Some individuals may experience mild gastrointestinal issues or altered gut bacteria communication due to stevia's interaction with gut microbiota. It is essential to note that individuals with low blood pressure or those on antihypertensive medications should consult a healthcare provider before use, as stevia may have a mild hypotensive effect. Special populations, including pregnant or breastfeeding women, should seek medical advice before incorporating stevia into their diets due to the limited research on safety in these groups.
Dosage
The effective dose of stevia varies considerably due to its high sweetness potency. For antioxidant benefits, while animal studies imply certain dosages, there is no established minimum effective dose for humans. The recommended daily intake primarily pertains to sweetness equivalence, with current guidelines set by regulatory bodies, though specific optimal dosages for health enhancement are not defined. No maximum safe dose has been established, but users are encouraged to adhere to recommended consumption guidelines. Timing for consumption is flexible, typically used on-demand for sweetening.
FAQs
Is stevia safe for long-term use?
Highly purified stevia is generally considered safe, but research is still ongoing regarding its long-term effects on gut health and hormone regulation.
Do I need to take stevia at a specific time?
There are no specific timing recommendations for stevia consumption; it can be used as needed for sweetness.
What health benefits can I expect from stevia?
Stevia offers sweetness without calories and may provide antioxidant benefits, but more human studies are needed to confirm these effects.
Are there any misconceptions about stevia?
Some believe stevia has significant negative health effects, but current evidence suggests it is safe when consumed in highly purified forms.
Research Sources
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37571265/ – This meta-analysis reviews the antioxidant activity of stevia leaf extracts, indicating significant restoration of oxidative stress markers in animal studies, though highlights the necessity for further human research.
- https://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/15/15/3325 – An experimental study investigating the effects of stevia on gut health, finding that it can inhibit bacterial communication without harming bacteria, indicating a need for more targeted research.
- https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/is-the-sugar-substitute-stevia-bad-for-our-health – This review article discusses the safety profile of stevia, emphasizing that highly purified forms are generally considered safe, while also noting potential gut health impacts that require further investigation.
