Are you trying to cut back on sugar but unsure if stevia is the right choice? Let’s explore what sets them apart and help you decide which one is better for you.
Sugar is the classic sweetener we all know and love. It’s natural, derived from sugarcane or sugar beets, and the primary sweetening compound in sugar is sucrose. It adds that rich sweetness to your favorite desserts, coffee, or tea. But here’s the catch: too much sugar can lead to weight gain, spikes in blood sugar levels, and long-term issues like diabetes and heart disease. The World Health Organization recommends limiting added sugar to no more than 10% of your daily calories, yet most of us consume far more.
On the other hand, stevia comes from the leaves of the Stevia rebaudiana plant. The primary sweetening compounds in stevia are steviol glycosides, including stevioside and rebaudioside A, which are 50 to 350 times sweeter than sucrose. And the good news is it has almost zero calories and doesn’t spike your blood sugar levels like sugar. This makes it an attractive option for people managing diabetes or watching their weight. It’s widely used in drinks, baked goods, and processed foods.
But is stevia too good to be true? For the most part, it’s considered safe when used in moderation. However, some people find that it has a slightly bitter aftertaste. And while it’s natural, many store-bought stevia products are highly processed, so it’s not as pure as raw stevia leaves. Always check the labels to ensure you’re getting a good-quality product.
So, which one should you choose? If you want to reduce calories and control blood sugar, stevia might be the way to go. But if you prefer the taste and don’t have health concerns, small amounts of sugar can still fit into a balanced diet. The key is moderation; too much of either isn’t ideal.
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