What is stevia? How is it made?

Reducing sugar is not just a passing fad today, but a conscious choice of many people who care about their health, good condition and maintaining a healthy weight. However, when looking for substitutes, it is easy to fall into the trap of artificial sweeteners – with a not very transparent composition and often questionable effect on the body. That is why it is worth getting to know something that has been used in South America for centuries, and today is also widely available in our country. Check what is stevia.

Where does stevia come from? What is stevia made from?

Stevia comes from South America, mainly from the areas of Paraguay and Brazil. The indigenous inhabitants of these regions – the Guarani – used stevia leaves to sweeten drinks, but also as a medicine supporting digestion or soothing inflammation. In Europe and the USA, its popularity has only gained momentum in recent years – previously, access to natural extracts was limited. The most important active ingredient is steviol glycosides – compounds responsible for the sweet taste.

Depending on their concentration, stevia can be up to 300 times sweeter than white sugar. Importantly – it does not contain fructose, glucose, sucrose or any calories.

Check also: what is xylitol?

How is stevia made?

The process of obtaining stevia is not complicated, but it requires precision. In simple terms, it looks like this:

1.      Harvesting the leaves – an important moment, because the later taste and sweetening power depend on the quality of the leaves.

2.      Drying – preferably in controlled conditions, so as not to destroy the valuable compounds.

3.      Extraction – the leaves are soaked in water and then filtered to obtain a clear, sweet liquid.

4.      Purification – removing impurities and concentrating the extract.

5.      Combining with carriers – erythritol is often added to obtain a taste and consistency similar to sugar.

The result is a sweetener in powder, liquid or tablets, which can be used almost anywhere.

Is stevia natural?

Stevia is a natural sweetener that combines intense sweetness with a lack of calories. But its advantages do not end with taste. It is a plant that can replace sugar in almost everything – from coffee to cakes – without negatively affecting blood glucose levels. That is why it is enjoying growing interest among people with insulin resistance, diabetics, athletes and all those who want to live consciously.

Is stevia healthy?

Stevia is not just a neutral sugar substitute. It affects the body in a specific way, supporting various processes.

·        It does not provide calories – which helps control body weight.

·        It does not raise glucose levels – it does not affect insulin metabolism.

·        It does not promote the development of caries – it can even be used in products for children.

·        Supports digestion – has choleretic and anti-inflammatory effects.

·        Has antibacterial potential – studies show that it can inhibit the growth of some bacteria.

Does stevia raise blood sugar? Is stevia safe?

It does not raise blood sugar levels and does not cause tooth decay – it is safe for children and diabetics.

Is stevia better than sugar?

Stevia is very versatile, but it is worth knowing a few rules for using it.

·        Coffee and tea – it is an excellent substitute for sugar, especially in combination with erythritol (learn more about erythritol).

·        Desserts and cakes – it can be added to cheesecakes, mousses, pancakes – although the effect will be slightly different because stevia does not caramelize.

·        Sauces and dressings – goes well with Asian cuisine, fruit sauces for meats and marinades.

·        Smoothies and cocktails – it perfectly enhances the taste of fruit without adding sugar.

Some people detect a slight aftertaste of stevia – this is an individual matter. Mixtures with erythritol are often better tolerated in terms of taste.

Products worth considering – proven and safe

There is no shortage of products with the word “stevia” on the market, but many of them contain only trace amounts of extract, the rest are cheap fillers. Below are some suggestions that are actually worth considering.

·        Stevia based on erythritol and steviol glycosides Naturavena – a good proportion of taste and natural ingredients, for everyday use.

·        Stevia Green Leaf powder sweetener – a classic formula, well-soluble, suitable for baking.

·        Sensitive remineralizing toothpaste with Nordics liquid enamel – an example of using stevia outside the kitchen – it supports oral hygiene without causing tooth decay.

What is stevia? Summary

Stevia is a plant sweetener, several hundred times sweeter than sugar, and without calories. Let's summarize the most important information!

·        It is made from the leaves of the plant, and the finished product is often combined with erythritol for a better taste.

·        It works well in drinks, desserts, sauces and cosmetics.

·        It is worth choosing proven products, e.g. from Naturavena, Zielony Listek or Nordics.