Who should not take stevia?

Who Should Not Take Stevia?
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 is generally considered safe for most people, certain individuals should exercise caution or avoid it altogether due to potential health risks and side effects.
Individuals with Allergies or Sensitivities
People who have allergies to plants in the Asteraceae family, which includes daisies, marigolds, and chrysanthemums, may also react to stevia. Allergic reactions can manifest as skin rashes, gastrointestinal issues, or respiratory problems. Therefore, those with known sensitivities to these plants should avoid stevia to prevent adverse reactions.
Pregnant and Breastfeeding Women
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 and breastfeeding women should consult healthcare providers before incorporating stevia into their diets. The potential effects on fetal development or nursing infants remain a concern, warranting caution.
Individuals with Kidney Issues
Stevia is metabolized in the body and excreted through the kidneys. For individuals with pre-existing kidney conditions, consuming stevia may pose additional risks. The kidneys may struggle to process the sweetener effectively, leading to potential complications. Therefore, those with kidney disease should consult their healthcare provider before using stevia.
People with Diabetes on Certain Medications
While stevia is often touted as a safe sweetener for people with diabetes due to its low glycemic index, it can still interact with certain medications. Specifically, stevia may enhance the effects of diabetes medications, leading to hypoglycemia (low blood sugar). Individuals taking insulin or other diabetes medications should monitor their blood sugar levels closely and discuss stevia use with their healthcare provider.
Individuals with Gastrointestinal Disorders
Some people may experience gastrointestinal discomfort when consuming stevia, particularly in its processed forms. Symptoms can include bloating, gas, and diarrhea. Those with pre-existing gastrointestinal disorders, such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), should be cautious and may want to avoid stevia to prevent exacerbating their symptoms.
Conclusion
While stevia can be a beneficial sugar substitute for many, it is essential for certain individuals to approach its use with caution. Pregnant women, those with allergies, individuals with kidney issues, people on specific diabetes medications, and those with gastrointestinal disorders should consult healthcare professionals before adding stevia to their diets. As with any dietary change, personalized advice from a healthcare provider is crucial to ensure safety and well-being.

Does stevia affect blood pressure?

Stevia widens the blood vessels and helps lower blood pressure, which may benefit people with hypertension. However, its role in people with low blood pressure (with or without symptoms) is unknown. If you have persistent low blood pressure, speak to your doctor before you start using stevia sweetener.

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.

Does stevia react with any medications?

Taking stevia along with diabetes medications might cause blood sugar to drop too low. Monitor your blood sugar closely. Stevia might lower blood pressure. Taking stevia along with medications that lower blood pressure might cause blood pressure to go too low.

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.

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.

Is stevia a cancerous sweetener?

Stevia can also be found in many other products you eat. If you’re eating products marketed as low calorie, check the ingredients list to see what type of sweetener was used. Currently, there’s no evidence linking stevia to cancer when used in normal amounts.

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 most unhealthy artificial sweetener?

The worst of the worst culprits include aspartame (found in Equal and NutraSweet), sucralose (found in Splenda), and Saccharin (found in Sweet ‘N Low). Many people who cut artificial sugars out of their diets report the improvement of many health problems including migraines, depression, IBS, weight gain, and more.

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.

What is the least harmful artificial sweetener?

1. Stevia. Extracted from the Stevia rebaudiana plant, stevia is approximately 250 times sweeter than regular sugar. Because stevia contains no calories and minimal carbohydrates, it is not likely to contribute to undesired weight gain and blood sugar spikes.