Please Pass the Stevia

Welcome 2011. After the sugar-rush over indulgence of the holidays, I decided it was time to remind myself about natural sweeteners. Refined white sugar, you are the devil. Please pass the stevia.

What is Stevia?

Stevia powder is derived from Stevia Rebaudiana Bertoni, a plant native to Central and South America. The calorie-free sweetener surpasses the sweetness of refined white sugar by 200 to 300 times, according to the American Dietetic Association.

Using Stevia

I've mixed stevia into hot herbal tea, sprinkled it over cereal and sweetened fresh, raw strawberries with the powder. Since the sweetener packs a powerful punch, I use much less than when I use refined white sugar. One little packet of stevia can sweeten at least three cups of tea. If you're diabetic or looking to shed a few pounds, give stevia a try.

Resources and Suggested Further Reading:

American Dietetic Association: Stevia

United States Department of Agriculture:

Nutritive and Non Nutritive Sweetener Resources

Green Plant: Green Sweeteners Compared:

Stevia, Brown Rice Syrup, Agave Nectar

The World's Healthiest Foods:

Is one type of sweetener better than the other for my body and the way my body processes them?

Until next time,

Choose Healthy!

Angela

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