Stevia Leaves

Stevia is a natural, calorie-free sweetener that is derived from the leaves of the Stevia rebaudiana plant, which is native to South America. The plant contains compounds called steviol glycosides, which are responsible for its sweetness. Stevia extract is often used as a sugar substitute in foods and beverages, including soft drinks, desserts, and baked goods.

Stevia is a popular sweetener because it has zero calories and does not affect blood sugar levels, making it a suitable alternative for people who are watching their weight or managing diabetes. Additionally, stevia is considered to be safe and is approved for use by many regulatory agencies, including the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA).

While some people find the taste of stevia to be slightly bitter or metallic, it is generally considered to be a good sugar substitute that can be used in a variety of recipes.

1. Low-calorie alternative to sugar: Stevia is a natural sweetener that is much sweeter than sugar, yet has zero calories. This makes it a popular alternative for people who want to reduce their sugar intake or are watching their weight.
2. Doesn't raise blood sugar levels: Stevia is safe for people with diabetes or other blood sugar problems because it doesn't affect blood sugar levels.
3. May help lower blood pressure: Some research has suggested that stevia may have a blood pressure-lowering effect, making it potentially beneficial for people with hypertension.
4. May have anti-inflammatory properties: Stevia contains compounds that have been shown to have anti-inflammatory effects, which may help to reduce inflammation throughout the body.
5. May have antimicrobial properties: Some studies have shown that stevia extracts may have antimicrobial properties, which means they may help to kill certain bacteria and fungi.
6. May help prevent cavities: Unlike sugar, stevia does not promote the growth of harmful bacteria in the mouth, which means it may help to prevent cavities and improve dental health.

Overall, stevia is a safe and natural sweetener that can be used in place of sugar in many different foods and drinks. However, more research is needed to fully understand its potential health benefits and any potential side effects.

Stevia can be consumed in various forms, including:

1. Powdered or granulated stevia: This form of stevia is similar in texture to sugar and can be used as a sweetener in cooking and baking. It can also be added to beverages such as tea or coffee.
2. Liquid stevia: Liquid stevia is a concentrated form of stevia that is used as a sweetener in beverages and can also be added to recipes in place of sugar.
3. Stevia extracts: Stevia extracts are highly concentrated and are typically used in small amounts as a sweetener in beverages and recipes.

When using stevia as a substitute for sugar in recipes, it is important to keep in mind that stevia is much sweeter than sugar, so only a small amount is needed. It may also take some experimentation to find the right amount of stevia to use in a recipe, as the taste can vary depending on the brand and type of stevia.

At Live Organics, we firmly advocate for the consumption of stevia exclusively in its natural form, such as dried leaves or powder. Conventional processed stevia may not offer the full range of benefits, whereas our supply of natural and organic dried stevia leaves ensures optimal health advantages.