From the Guidelines
The use of stevia sugar is not recommended as a long-term alternative to sugary beverages due to its potential association with increased disease risk factors, such as obesity, hypertension, and type 2 diabetes, as suggested by recent meta-analyses 1. When considering the use of stevia sugar, it is essential to weigh the potential benefits against the potential risks. While stevia is a low-calorie sweetener that may seem like a harmless alternative to sugary beverages, the evidence suggests that its consumption may be linked to adverse health outcomes. Some key points to consider when evaluating the use of stevia sugar include:
- The potential association between low-calorie sweetened beverages, including those containing stevia, and increased risk of obesity, hypertension, and type 2 diabetes 1
- The lack of strong evidence supporting the use of stevia sugar as a safe and effective long-term alternative to sugary beverages 1
- The recommendation by the AHA Nutrition Committee to encourage the use of plain, carbonated, or unsweetened flavored water as an alternative to sugary beverages, rather than relying on low-calorie sweetened beverages like those containing stevia 1
- The importance of considering the potential risks and benefits of stevia sugar in the context of overall dietary habits and lifestyle, rather than relying solely on its potential benefits as a low-calorie sweetener. In terms of specific guidance, it is recommended to limit or avoid the use of stevia sugar as a long-term alternative to sugary beverages, and instead opt for plain, carbonated, or unsweetened flavored water as a healthier choice 1.
From the Research
Benefits of Stevia Sugar
- Stevia is a natural sweetener with zero calories, making it a suitable alternative for diabetic and obese individuals with hyperglycemia 2.
- The plant exhibits various properties, including hypoglycemic, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, hypotensive, antiseptic, diuretic, anti-fertility, and cardiotonic effects 2.
- Stevia has been shown to have positive effects on treating skin diseases such as dermatitis, acne, and eczema 2.
Safety and Efficacy of Stevia
- Extensive scientific research has demonstrated the safety of stevia as a low-calorie sweetener, if taken in acceptable quantities daily 3.
- A randomized controlled trial found that stevia had no significant effects on blood glucose, HbA1C, insulin, and lipid levels in type 2 diabetic patients 4.
- Recent studies have investigated the effects of nonnutritive sweeteners, including stevia, on glycaemic control, with most finding no effect on blood glucose and insulin levels 5.
Comparison with Other Sweeteners
- Stevia is considered a natural alternative to artificial sweeteners, which may pose health risks 3.
- A review of the scientific evidence on stevia found that it may be effective in lowering blood pressure in hypertensive patients and improving glucose tolerance, although further investigation is warranted 6.
- Stevia has been compared to other nonnutritive sweeteners, including sucralose, with some studies finding no significant differences in their effects on glycaemic control 4, 5.