Stevia: a natural sugar substitute
Stevia, also known as Paraguayan sugarleaf or sweetleaf, belongs to the daisy family. It grows naturally in the humid climate of outlying areas of Paraguay and Brazil, and in the rainforests of Central and South America and Mexico. This mint-like plant is a natural sugar substitute: its leaves are 15 x sweeter than sugar, while its extract is as much as 300 x sweeter. 100g of fresh leaves can sweeten 180l of tea. Stevia extract has been used in various countries as a natural, calorie-free sweetener for about 20 years. Following extensive scientific research, the European Union approved stevia for use as a sweetener in December 2011.
Stevia has many beneficial properties compared with artificial and harmful sweeteners.
Because it does not raise blood sugar levels (and actually lowers them), it is particularly suitable if you have diabetes or want to lose weight
* stevia does not damage teeth or cause tooth decay thanks to its fluoride and other trace element content
* it is 100% natural
* it normalizes blood pressure
* stevia has anti-inflammatory, antifungal and anti-allergic effects
* stevia contains vitamins and minerals that strengthen the immune system and is recommended for preventing flu and colds
* thanks to its vitamins, stevia helps prevent pimples (it is also beneficial when applied to the skin) and supports wound healing
* it reduces gas and helps with excess stomach acid. It also contains enzymes, minerals, chlorophyll and plant components that improve mood and combat fatigue.
Stevia has antibacterial properties and is used in many mouthwashes and toothpastes. Simply chewing stevia leaves is enough to help prevent tooth decay and periodontal disease. Stevia inhibits the spread of bacteria that cause tooth decay and gingivitis. You can add sweetleaf to food and drinks as fresh leaves or crumbled dried leaves. The leaves retain their sweetness even when dried, and for a very long time. Stevia also withstands heat well, so you can use it to make desserts and jams.
Weight loss: a natural sugar substitute
Stevia is a useful aid if you want to lose weight because
* it is completely calorie-free, so you can enjoy sweet foods even when on a diet while avoiding the calories in sugar
* using stevia does not cause blood sugar levels to fluctuate, so you avoid the sudden hunger pangs associated with eating sweet foods
* stevia is also carbohydrate-free and has a glycemic index, or GI, of 0.
After years of research, the European Food Safety Authority declared stevia completely safe!
Author: Veronika Otter
Source:Turg.Fitness.ee
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