A Historical Plant with Scientific Backing
Stevia rebaudiana Bertoni, native to Paraguay and Brazil, has been used for centuries by Guaraní communities as a natural sweetener. Today, its purified extracts—the glycosides of steviol—sweeten products in over 60 countries. These compounds are between 200 and 300 times sweeter than sugar and do not contribute calories.
Organizations such as the FDA in the United States, the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA), and COFEPRIS in Mexico endorse its use as a safe food additive. The Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI) is set at 4 mg per kilogram of body weight, a level that is difficult to exceed with regular daily consumption.
“Stevia is a natural, calorie-free sweetener that does not raise blood sugar levels, making it a great alternative to sugar,” states associations like the American Heart Association and the American Diabetes Association.
An Ally for Diabetics?
One of the most widespread myths is that stevia could alter glucose levels. However, multiple clinical studies have shown that not only does it not raise blood sugar levels, but it may even have a positive effect on insulin sensitivity.
“The glycosides of steviol have insignificant effects on glucose levels due to their low carbohydrate content,” explains nutritionist Yeni Zetina.
This scientific support has led many doctors to recommend its use among patients with type 2 diabetes. In health-focused restaurants and functional cuisine establishments, its use is increasingly common for developing desserts, beverages, and bakery products without glucose impact.
A Calorie-Free Sweetness… Not a Miracle
Stevia is also promoted as a tool for weight loss. Although it helps reduce overall calorie intake by substituting sugar, experts agree that it is not a magical solution.
Metabolically, it has also been attributed benefits such as reducing blood pressure and preventing cavities, which has led global food and beverage brands to reformulate products based on this sweetener.
Key Questions and Answers
- Does stevia raise blood sugar levels? No, multiple clinical studies have shown that stevia does not raise blood sugar levels and may even have a positive effect on insulin sensitivity.
- Is stevia safe for everyone? While stevia is considered safe, some consumers report mild digestive discomfort, such as bloating or nausea, especially when using large quantities. Rare cases of allergies have also been reported in individuals sensitive to the asteraceae family, like chamomile or ambrosia.
- Should pregnant women or those with low blood pressure use stevia? The scientific community advises caution for pregnant women or those with low blood pressure, as stevia may have a slight hypotensive and diuretic effect.
- Is stevia a miracle solution for weight loss? Stevia helps reduce overall calorie intake by substituting sugar, but it is not a magical solution for weight loss. It should be used responsibly and in moderation, along with a balanced diet and regular exercise.
Stevia has moved beyond its initial image as a “diabetic sweetener” and is now part of the healthy gastronomic revolution. In author cuisines, it is used to prepare mousses, jams, cocktails, and functional desserts. The trend is significant: the global stevia market surpassed $800 million in 2024 and is projected to reach $1.4 billion in less than a decade.
Mexico participates both as a consumer and producer, primarily in states like Chiapas and Sinaloa. Stevia is not a miracle, but it is a valuable tool for reducing sugar consumption and advancing towards healthier diets. Its responsible use, validated by science and creatively applied in cooking, allows enjoying the sweet life without guilt.
