Stevia - An Alternative to artificial sweet additives.
One of the biggest changes I'm making in my life involves cutting back on diet sodas - predominantly due to the artificial sweeteners in them. This is something I'm doing at Penny's suggestion. We discussed Stevia during the course of the meeting, and on Monday, following returning from a convention I was able to purchase some.Stevia is a plant that has been used as a 'sweetener' in some form for centuries in some places, decades in others. It's something that is calorie free, carbohydrate free, and can be used by diabetics as it doesn't affect the blood sugar level. There seems to be some troubles with getting it approved in the U.S. by the FDA, as anything other than a 'nutritional supplement'. I've looked at some of the issues that had been allegedly reported, but it turns out they are in fact allegations. There is no proof that Stevia is unsafe in the quantities one uses artificial sweeteners. (Assuming these quantities are small to moderate. Over indulging in anything=bad.) It wouldn't surprise me if the people putting forth the allegations were associated with corporations that would lose money and such, were Stevia to make a splash.
Needless to say - it has a 'sweet' taste. And, having used it - I feel the transition won't be bad at all really. Thoroughly enjoying it. I suggest looking up the benefits of 'Stevia' online, or discussing it with a nutritionist who specializes in whole, organic foods. :)
posted by Meg @ 8:53 PM
Comments: 2
