We live in a society where the consumption of healthy plant-based products is gaining momentum with every passing day. Eating a balanced diet which is a mix of macros, protein, carbs along with regular exercises has become a lifestyle trend these days. However, one thing which remains constant is its no sugar regimen.
No nutritionists would stress upon the consumption of refined sugars because of their no nutritional value. However, the experts these days have found an alternative that is safer, the healthier relative of refined sugar – “Stevia”.
What is Stevia?
Stevia is an organic substitute of sugar which is prepared from the leaves of the stevia plant. Experts claim that it is 100 times sweeter than sugar but is completely carb free. It is sold commercially in the form of tablets or liquid and can be easily incorporated in tea, coffee, and other sweet delicacies.
Is Consuming Stevia Healthy?
The first cousin of sugar, Stevia is free of calories but still, there is a mixed view whether its consumption is healthy or not.
Nutritionists have addressed this popular question and have answered that consuming Stevia is an effective remedy when tackling problems of weight management, diabetes, obesity, and other allied problems. It has no side effects on the body and is considered safe if consumed in moderate amounts.
Being carb-free and free of calories, diabetic people can easily use it in cakes, cookies, and other desserts and curb their sweet cravings.
Research done on Stevia has proved that there is no retention of Stevia in the body and it is flushed out of the body during metabolism. The energy we get from its consumption is 2kal/gm which is ideal for obese or diabetic persons.
However, excess consumption of anything is harmful to the body. The daily acceptable intake of Stevia is 4mg per day.
Health Benefits of Stevia
Besides being calories free, the leaves also have anti-fungal and anti-bacterial properties and also behave as an anti-oxidant. It contains rich sources of Zinc, Calcium, and Magnesium some of the most important nutrients required by our body.
The plant is also considered to help with problems of high blood pressure, hair fall, dandruff, and other scalp-related problems. It also helps in reducing Uric acid levels of the body.