STEVIA Natural sweetener derived from the leaves of the Stevia rebaudiana plant.
Much sweeter than sugar but with zero calories.
Health Benefits:
Calorie-Free so Can help in weight management as it provides sweetness without added calories.
Blood Sugar Levels: Does not raise blood sugar levels, making it safe for diabetics.
Dental Health: Does not contribute to tooth decay.
Health Risks:
Some people may experience Digestive issues like bloating or stomach discomfort.
Allergic Reactions are Rare, but possible allergic reactions in sensitive individuals, numerous studies confirm that stevia is safe for consumption.
Research indicates stevia does not adversely affect metabolic parameters and may even have beneficial effects on blood pressure and blood sugar control.
Summary
Health Risks:
Obesity: High sugar intake is linked to weight gain and obesity.
Diabetes: Excessive consumption can lead to insulin resistance, increasing the risk of type 2 diabetes.
Heart Disease: High sugar intake is associated with an increased risk of heart disease.
Dental Problems: Sugar promotes tooth decay and cavities.
Fatty Liver Disease: Excessive fructose can lead to non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.
Research Findings:
Meta-analyses: Studies show a clear association between high sugar consumption and increased risk of obesity, diabetes, and heart disease.
Benefit : Reducing sugar intake improves markers of health, such as weight, blood pressure, and insulin sensitivity.
Content: Like sugar, jaggery is high in calories and can contribute to weight gain.
Nutritional Content: Contains some micronutrients like iron, magnesium, and potassium.
Health Risks:
High Caloric Content: Like sugar, jaggery is high in calories and can contribute to weight gain if consumed in excess.
Blood Sugar Levels: Jaggery has a high glycemic index and can cause spikes in blood sugar levels.
Health Benefits:
Contains small amounts of vitamins and minerals not present in refined sugar.
Traditional Medicine: Used in traditional remedies for respiratory infections and digestive issues.
Sugar:
Sugar should be consumed in moderation due to its links to various health issues.
Experiment: Controlled trials reducing sugar intake.
Result: Improvement in weight, blood pressure, obesity, diabetes and insulin sensitivity.
Jaggery:
Jaggery offers some nutritional benefits over refined sugar but should also be used sparingly.
Experiment: Comparative studies on glycemic response.
Result: Slightly lower impact on blood sugar than refined sugar, but still significant.
Stevia:
Stevia is a good alternative for those looking to reduce calorie and sugar intake without sacrificing sweetness
Experiment: Long-term safety and metabolic effect studies.
Result: Found to be safe with no significant impact on blood sugar and potentially beneficial effects on blood pressure.
Conclusion:
Choosing the right sweetener depends on individual health goals and conditions, such as weight management or diabetes. Moderation is key with any sweetener to maintain overall health.