Stevia sweet liquid with agave

Stevia sweeteners are based upon extracts from the stevia sweet liquid with agave of the stevia rebaudiana plant, and was approved for sale in the EU in 2012. Until 2012, stevia had not been approved for sale in the EU and its availability had been eagerly anticipated by people with diabetes looking to have a naturally derived low calorie sweetener.

Steviol glycosides, whilst sweet, can have a bitter aftertaste when stevia is consumed in its purest form. Stevia based sweeteners that are blended with other sweetening ingredients may have blood glucose raising properties, depending on what they are blended with and in what proportion. Refer to the packaging or contact the manufacturer if you have questions about how the product may affect your blood glucose levels. Why are some stevia products blended with other sweeteners? As stevia extracts can have a bitter aftertaste, a number of commercially available stevia based sweeteners blend in other sweeteners to improve the taste. If you are looking to avoid particular sweeteners, check the ingredients list before purchasing or consuming.

Some brands of stevia may also vary the ingredients between different forms of the product, eg products listed for baking may contain sugar when products for sprinkling on food or drink may use non-sugar sweeteners. Uses of stevia Stevia is a useful sweetener for hot and cold drinks and can be sprinkled over foods for instant sweetness. Stevia can be used in cooking, particularly where the primary role of stevia is to add sweetness. Stevia does not caramelise and may not function so well as a direct substitute for sugar in recipes in which sugar is an integral part of the structure or texture.

The suitability of stevia in baking may vary depending on the ingredients of the stevia product itself. Unlike other sugar alcohols, it also has no significant laxative effect on the body. Is it suitable for people with diabetes? Who else can benefit from 000 Stevia Sugar? Health risks and warnings Research studies, including a Brazilian study from 2007, have suggested that stevia may raise the risk of cancer. However, other studies have shown no side effects. How long has stevia been legally available for sale in the UK?

Stevia was approved for use as a sweetener in the EU and UK in December 2011. The EU regulations permit which products may contain stevia and at what quantities. Find support, share experiences and get exclusive member cookbooks, giveaways and freebies. NHS certified education, meal plans and coaching to lose weight, reduce medications and improve your HbA1c.