When should you not use stevia?

Understanding Stevia: When to Avoid Its Use
Stevia, a natural sweetener derived from the leaves of the *Stevia rebaudiana* plant, has gained popularity as a zero-calorie alternative to sugar. While it offers several health benefits, there are specific circumstances under which its use may not be advisable. Here’s a closer look at when you should consider avoiding stevia.
Potential Allergic Reactions
One of the primary concerns with stevia is the possibility of allergic reactions. Although rare, some individuals may experience sensitivity to stevia or its components, leading to symptoms such as skin rashes, gastrointestinal discomfort, or respiratory issues. If you have a history of allergies to plants in the Asteraceae family, which includes ragweed, daisies, and marigolds, it may be prudent to avoid stevia altogether.
Blood Sugar Management
While stevia is often touted for its ability to help manage blood sugar levels, individuals with diabetes should approach its use with caution. Although stevia does not raise blood sugar levels, it can interact with certain medications used to control diabetes. This interaction may lead to an unexpected drop in blood sugar, known as hypoglycemia. Therefore, those on diabetes medications should consult with a healthcare provider before incorporating stevia into their diet.
Gastrointestinal Issues
Some users report gastrointestinal side effects when consuming stevia, particularly in large amounts. These can include bloating, gas, and diarrhea. If you have a sensitive digestive system or conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), it may be wise to limit your intake of stevia or avoid it entirely to prevent discomfort.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
The safety of stevia during pregnancy and breastfeeding is not fully established. While some studies suggest that stevia is safe in moderation, the lack of comprehensive research means that pregnant or breastfeeding women should err on the side of caution. Consulting with a healthcare professional is recommended to ensure the health of both mother and child.
Quality of Stevia Products
Not all stevia products are created equal. Many commercial stevia sweeteners contain additives or are processed in ways that may diminish their health benefits. Some products may include sugar alcohols or other sweeteners that can cause digestive issues. Therefore, it’s essential to choose high-quality, pure stevia products and to read labels carefully. If you are unsure about a product’s ingredients, it may be best to avoid it.
Conclusion
In summary, while stevia can be a beneficial sugar substitute for many, there are specific situations where its use may not be advisable. Individuals with allergies, those managing diabetes, people with sensitive digestive systems, pregnant or breastfeeding women, and consumers of low-quality stevia products should consider these factors before incorporating stevia into their diets. Always consult with a healthcare professional if you have concerns about how stevia may affect your health.

Is stevia better or worse than sugar?

Stevia is generally considered better than sugar due to its zero-calorie content and lack of impact on blood sugar levels. Sugar, on the other hand, can contribute to weight gain, diabetes, and other metabolic issues when consumed in excess. For more detailed comparisons, you can explore my Quora Profile.

Why did the US ban stevia?

Though widely available throughout the world, in 1991 stevia was banned in the U.S. due to early studies that suggested the sweetener may cause cancer.

What is the healthiest sugar substitute?

Stevia and monk fruit are both naturally derived from plants and some people feel they have a flavor very similar to regular sugar. The FDA says these sweeteners are “generally regarded as safe,” which means they are safe to use for their intended purpose.

Why are people avoiding stevia?

It may also drop blood pressure too low or interact with medications that lower blood sugar. Though widely available throughout the world, in 1991 stevia was banned in the US due to early studies that suggested the sweetener may cause cancer.

What is the downside of stevia?

A 2019 study reported a possible link between nonnutritive sweeteners, including stevia, and disruption in beneficial intestinal flora. The same study also suggested nonnutritive sweeteners may induce glucose intolerance and metabolic disorders. As with most nonnutritive sweeteners, a major downside is the taste.

Which stevia to avoid?

Stevia products to avoid:

• “Truvia,” which goes through a 40-step chemically patented process.
• “Stevia in the Raw” and “PureVia” contains dextrose, a sweetener that’s also derived from genetically engineered corn and has a long complicated manufacturing process, just like erythritol.

Is stevia safe for kidneys?

Compared to table sugar, stevia is a good alternative since it doesn’t contain any sugar and is calorie-free. It’s generally considered safe to consume, just like other artificial sweeteners. There may also be health benefits of using stevia related to heart, liver, and kidney health.

Why is stevia banned by FDA?

Stevia’s Rocky History With the FDA
Though widely available throughout the world, in 1991 stevia was banned in the U.S. due to early studies that suggested the sweetener may cause cancer.

Why was stevia banned in Europe?

Stevia was initially banned because some highly alarming early studies suggested that the sweetener might be linked to cancer. There were also other concerns about the sweet compounds in stevia leaves, known as steviol glycosides.

Why was stevia banned?

Though stevia was initially banned in the U.S. because some studies suggested it may be linked to cancer, it’s no longer prohibited. In fact, in 2008, stevia was granted GRAS status by the FDA – which stands for “Generally Recognized As Safe.”