It was once banned, but now it returns. Replaces a "silent killer"
Sugar is referred to as a "silent killer." The harmfulness of this ingredient was scientifically proven many years ago. Therefore, it's not surprising that we often reach for healthier substitutes. As it turns out, one of them was banned in the United States until recently.
6:19 AM EDT, October 24, 2023
Stevia is one of the most popular sugar substitutes. It is added to nearly every sweet drink, as well as candies or ready-made cake mixes. Best of all, it has a zero glycemic index and... 0 calories, which makes it suitable for people on a weight loss diet or diabetics.
It was only approved for sale in the United States in 2008. It was previously thought that consuming stevia increased the risk of cancer. Is stevia healthy? How much stevia can you consume in a day? We dispel doubts.
What is stevia made of?
Stevia is an asterid perennial. It naturally occurs in Brazil and Paraguay, where it is called "honey herb". You can buy it in health food stores or pharmacies in the form of lozenges or powder. A teaspoon of stevia corresponds to a cup of sugar, as it is 300 times sweeter than sugar, which is why it should be used very sparingly. The best thing is, that it has 0 calories and a zero glycemic index, which is why people with diabetes or those on a weight loss diet so often reach for it.
Just a few decades ago, it was on the list of prohibited products, both in the United States and in the European Union. Back then, studies showed that an excess of stevia in the diet could contribute to the development of cancer or fetal damage. In 2008, further studies were conducted, which ruled out such a possibility. Currently, it is the most popular sweetener in the world.
Is stevia healthy?
In 2011, the European Food Safety Authority examined stevia. The study found it to be a completely safe ingredient. However, they established a permitted daily dosage of stevia, which was determined to be 4 mg per kilogram of body weight (approximately 1.81 mg per pound of body weight). Despite numerous benefits, such as antiviral, anti-inflammatory, and anti-cavity effects, stevia can cause unwanted effects, as argued by Dr. Lisa Young in a conversation with USA Today.
"In some people, consuming stevia can cause diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, or bloating, especially if consumed in large amounts," - explains.
