Let's face it; sugar is sweet, but as we know, over-consumption can take a huge toll on your health. That said, you either have to use it in moderation or better still, stick to sugar substitutes. Now, if you're considering sugar substitutes, you should be aware that not all are created equal. In essence, most of them are made with artificial ingredients and of course, come with a whole lot of side effects. On the flip side, natural sweeteners like honey are beneficial to the health, but the thing is, they're still chock full of naturally occurring types of sugar. So what's the way out? Well, at this point, you won't be wrong to stick with Stevia. For those who might not know, Stevia is a naturally sweet herb that grows in South America, but can still found in several other parts of the world. The biggest highlight of this leafy herbal plant is that it's 200 times sweeter than sugar, but it doesn't spike sugar levels like refined sugar and other artificial sweeteners. Amazing right? For the most part, this all-natural zero calorie sweetener contain two compounds (Rebaudioside A and Stevioside), both of which are responsible for its sweetness. Essentially, Rebaudioside A is typically used in most stevia sweeteners and powders on the market. And Stevioside which makes up 10% of the sweetness happen to be the holder of most of stevia's amazing health benefits.
1. Reduce Blood Pressure and Fights Diabetes
. Right off the bat, stevia can help regulate elevated blood pressure and of course, cut you off from the many diseases it brings. According to a double-blind placebo study, up to 174 Chinese patients experienced a decrease in diastolic and systolic blood pressure after taking 500 mg of stevioside three times per day. What's more, the patients also had a lower risk of Left Ventricular Hypertrophy, a heart condition caused by elevated blood pressure.
It's also good to point out that the compound, stevioside is capable of treating Type II diabetes. As we know, this health problem is characterized by high blood sugar and comes as a result of insulin resistance. That said, stevioside has the tendency to improve the function of insulin thus keeping blood sugar levels in check. It's also good to point out that research indicates that stevia is 100% free of calories and carbohydrates, as such, it does not affect blood glucose. With this in mind, diabetic people only have to substitute sugar for stevia — it's a super healthy way to enjoy sweets!
2. Aids Weight Loss
Ever given thought to how people get obese? Well, as you probably guessed, the condition is associated with prolonged physical inactivity and of course overconsumption of foods that are loaded with refined sugar. So, the journey to the figure of your dreams begins with cutting off sugar (think hamburgers, candy, cakes and the likes). The good news is, the zero calorie stevia can take its place — you can still enjoy the sweets without worrying about the calories!
3. Fights Cancer
Stevia is also home to a number of antioxidant compounds including quercetin and kaempfrol. These compounds assist the body in getting rid of free radicals which in turn prevent the production of cancerous cells. It's good to know that one 2012 Nutrition and Cancer study indicated that Stevia might have the ability to reduce breast cancer cell growth. It was discovered that stevioside supports cancer apoptosis and reduces certain stress pathways in the body that promotes the growth of cancer cells.
Wrapping It Up
So there you have it! Besides being naturally tasty, stevia is loaded with health benefits that are incredibly good for you. Be sure to make the big switch if you're looking to cut down your refined sugar intake without giving up on everything sweet! Stay healthy!