Is there a safe alternative to conventional and chemical sweeteners? There may be – and it’s called stevia. (of course, if you are diabetic or have problems with your insulin levels, you need to avoid sweetners and consult with your physician.)
Stevia is a non-caloric herb, native to Paraguay, that has been used as a sweetener and flavor enhancer for centuries. It is available as liquid and powder. Stevia cannot be legally sold as a sweetener due to FDA regulations; however, it may be purchased in natural foods stores and even supermarkets as a dietary supplement. The website www.stevia.net is an outstanding source of information on this remarkable little plant, which enjoys great popularity in Japan. Today it is grown and used in approximately 10 other countries outside South America, including China, Germany, Malaysia, Israel and South Korea.
Sounds a lot better than those packets of artificial sweetner
Very interesting article. Thanks dear doctor!!!!
The FDA must have given special permission to “Cargill”, as they have been marketing their stevia based product for about a year now called “Truvia”, which comes granulated and in packets just like sugar. Are they putting anything unhealthy or non-natural in it??? Thats my question…
It was my understanding that the FDA did approve stevia, and it is being used in new sweeteners such as Truvia. Is that not the case?
I have been adding this to my plain yogurt and old fashioned oatmeal, is this still considered to be an anti-inflammatory?
thanks!
I was introduced to Stevia by a local natural food store manager, and it’s wonderful! Such a great alternative. I use Stevia drops to sweeten liquids, and use it as an alternative for Splenda in some baking recipes.
I have the same question as others, is Truvia ok to use? It says it contains Erethritol, rebiana, natural flavors. So it it isn’t just pure setvia, but the erethritol is a sugar alcohol that has no affect on blood sugar as far as I know. Anyone know for sure?
I struggle with inflammation/chronic pain/possible adverse reactions to artificial sweetners. I switched to Stevia and I love it (along with other dietary changes which has been of great benefit!)! It takes a little playing around with to get the amount right (it is very sweet). Truvia is not natural….alot of things the FDA approves as food have alot of additives and are processed (count your ingredients and see how many of them are actually food). So if you are going to the trouble of changing sweetners, find Stevia (not Truvia) online or at your local health food store and get something that you don’t have to ask questions about:)