Stevia is an herb which has been used as a sweetener for centuries, but is only recently gaining popularity as a sugar substitute in the US. Stevia was first introduced in the United States in the mid-1990s as an herbal supplement. It was later approved by the FDA, after much controversy.
Stevia is used as a weight loss aid; for treating high blood pressure and heartburn, for treating diabetes, for lowering uric acid levels, for increasing the power of the muscle contractions that pump blood from the heart, and for preventing pregnancy.
Stevia is gaining acceptance so much that even Pepsi and Coke are going to be producing products which contain this magnificent zero carbohydrate, zero calorie alternative sweetener. People are looking for healthier alternatives to artificial sweeteners and sugar; this is the main reason why Stevia is in high demand and being referred to as the” sweetener of the future”. So, here are some of the reasons why Stevia is better than any other sweetener.
No Side Effects
The only natural form of sugar substitute which is available on the market is Stevia. Given the fact that Stevia is 100 percent natural, it has no side effects; this makes it more useful to your body than artificial sweeteners. Stevia can be safely used by both children and adults.
Stevia is Healthier
Stevia is completely natural, contains zero carbohydrates, zero calories, and boasts a position of zero in the glycemic-index. Unlike the artificial sweeteners and sugar, Stevia does not reduce the absorbing of nutrients from healthy foods consumed, nor break up the balance of minerals in a healthy body. What usually makes Stevia stand out is that it has no effect on the normal blood glucose levels which is enormous for diabetics.
Stevia Helps in Weight Management
Individuals who have used Stevia in their diets have reported that it is helpful in reducing their craving and appetite for some foods such as sweets and fatty foods. This has really helped them to maintain a healthy body and lose some weight. You can either use the powdered Stevia that is available or use the leaves directly. You can also find Stevia tablets in stores, and they can be taken with water as a dietary-supplement for losing weight.
Stevia Helps in Secreting Insulin
Stevia is widely known for its ability to produce insulin, which is a great advantage for those people who are diabetic. Stevia has been used for so many years to treat diabetes in Paraguay and Brazil. Stevia contains a substance known as stevioside, which stimulates the production and the release of insulin in the pancreas, thus assisting in the treatment of type-2 diabetes. Stevia is 40 times sweeter than the normal sugar, and it can be safely used in tea, coffee, sweets, and other beverages and foods.
Healing Advantages
Application of Stevia on wound and cuts can relieve the pain almost instantly. In addition, a facial-mask made from the leaves of Stevia plant helps in rejuvenating and smoothing the skin. Stevia is also known for treating other types of skin disorders such as dermatitis and eczema.
For those people who suffering from obesity, diabetes, heart disorders, high cholesterol, and high blood pressure, Stevia is the best option for you. Whether it is used as a sugar substitute or as a dietary supplement, this miracle herb can be very helpful to your body. Stevia is also rich in nutrients like calcium, phosphorous, vitamins, proteins, sodium, zinc, magnesium, plus other minerals which are required by your body.