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Stevia powder extract

Also known as: Stevia, stevia leaf, stevia powder extract, steviol glycosides, stevioside, rebaudioside A, Stevia rebaudiana

Overview

Stevia powder extract is derived from the leaves of *Stevia rebaudiana*, a plant native to South America. It contains sweet-tasting compounds called steviol glycosides, primarily stevioside and rebaudioside A, which are used as calorie-free sweeteners. It is primarily used as a sugar substitute for people seeking to reduce caloric intake or manage blood glucose levels, especially in diabetes and hypertension contexts. Key characteristics include intense sweetness (200–300 times sweeter than sucrose), a calorie-free profile, and potential bioactive effects beyond sweetness, such as antihyperglycemic and antihypertensive properties. Research on stevia is moderately mature, with a growing number of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and several systematic reviews/meta-analyses assessing its metabolic effects.

Benefits

Stevia powder extract offers several evidence-based benefits, particularly for individuals managing blood glucose and blood pressure. A 2022 systematic review and meta-analysis of preclinical studies showed that stevia leaf powder significantly reduced blood glucose levels in a dose-dependent manner at doses of 200–400 mg/kg, supporting its antihyperglycemic effects. For cardiovascular health, a 2014 systematic review and meta-analysis of nine RCTs found that stevioside consumption significantly reduced diastolic blood pressure and fasting blood glucose, although rebaudioside A showed no significant effects. A 2025 systematic review and meta-analysis of 11 clinical trials reported no significant effect of stevia consumption on appetite scores or energy intake in adults, indicating it does not increase hunger or caloric intake. Most clinical trials involved participants with high cardiovascular risk or diabetes, suggesting benefits in these populations, though more large-scale human trials are needed for definitive conclusions.

How it works

Steviol glycosides are metabolized in the gut to steviol, which may influence glucose metabolism by enhancing insulin secretion and improving insulin sensitivity, though precise molecular pathways remain under investigation. Stevia compounds may also exert vasodilatory effects contributing to blood pressure reduction. The bioavailability of steviol glycosides is low; they are not absorbed intact but are metabolized by gut microbiota, which may mediate some systemic effects. This gut microbiota interaction is thought to play a role in the observed metabolic benefits.

Side effects

Overall, stevia extracts are considered safe with no serious adverse effects reported in clinical trials. Common mild side effects reported in some individuals include abdominal fullness, epigastric pain, and dizziness. No significant drug interactions or contraindications have been firmly established. However, caution is advised in pregnancy and early development due to limited data and potential effects on the microbiome. It is important to note that while generally safe, individual sensitivities can vary, and any unusual symptoms should be discussed with a healthcare professional.

Dosage

Optimal dosing for the metabolic benefits of stevia remains to be definitively established. Animal studies investigating antihyperglycemic effects used doses of 200–400 mg/kg. Human randomized controlled trials typically utilize doses standardized to steviol glycosides, ranging from 250 mg to 1,000 mg per day. The timing of administration and the specific formulation (e.g., powder, extract, purified glycosides) may influence bioavailability and efficacy, but there is currently no consensus on these factors. Upper limits and safety thresholds are generally considered high, given its classification as 'Generally Recognized As Safe' (GRAS) by regulatory bodies for its use as a sweetener.

FAQs

Is stevia safe for diabetics?

Yes, evidence suggests stevia can reduce fasting blood glucose and is considered safe for diabetic patients at studied doses, making it a suitable sugar substitute.

Does stevia cause weight gain or increase appetite?

Current evidence from clinical trials shows no significant effect of stevia consumption on appetite or energy intake in adults, indicating it does not promote weight gain or increased hunger.

Can stevia lower blood pressure?

Stevioside, a primary component of stevia, may modestly reduce diastolic blood pressure. Effects on systolic blood pressure are less clear and require further research.

Are all stevia extracts equally effective?

No, different steviol glycosides, such as stevioside and rebaudioside A, may have varying effects. Stevioside appears to be more active in modulating blood glucose and blood pressure.

Research Sources

https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1002/fsn3.2904 – This systematic review and meta-analysis of preclinical studies found that stevia leaf powder significantly reduced blood glucose levels in a dose-dependent manner in animal models, particularly at doses of 200–400 mg/kg. The study highlights the antihyperglycemic potential of stevia, though it notes the limitations of extrapolating animal data to humans.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25412840/ – This systematic review and meta-analysis of nine randomized controlled trials investigated the effects of stevioside and rebaudioside A on blood pressure and glucose. It concluded that stevioside significantly reduced diastolic blood pressure and fasting blood glucose, while rebaudioside A showed no significant effects. Mild side effects were reported, but overall safety was good.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39887829/ – This systematic review and meta-analysis of 11 clinical trials assessed the impact of stevia consumption on appetite and energy intake in adults. The findings indicated no significant effect on appetite scores or overall energy intake, suggesting that stevia does not stimulate hunger or lead to increased caloric consumption.
https://www.alzdiscovery.org/uploads/cognitive_vitality_media/Stevia_(food_drink)_.pdf – This source provides an overview of stevia, including its classification, potential mechanisms of action, and safety considerations. It discusses the metabolism of steviol glycosides in the gut and their potential influence on glucose metabolism and insulin sensitivity, while also noting the need for more research on long-term effects and specific molecular pathways.
https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/obr.13902 – This systematic review and meta-analysis, also referenced as Hajihashemi et al. 2025, reinforces the finding that stevia consumption does not significantly impact appetite or energy intake in adults. It contributes to the understanding of stevia's role in weight management and dietary control by confirming its neutrality regarding caloric consumption.