Indications
Stevia rebaudiana (stevia, sweet leaf) is a plant from South America whose leaves are extremely sweet. Purified extracts of the leaf (steviol glycosides) are used as a zero-calorie sweetener in place of sugar, which is helpful for people with diabetes or those trying to reduce sugar and calories. Stevia leaf is also included in some herbal products for blood sugar support. Some small studies suggest it may slightly lower blood sugar and blood pressure, but the evidence is limited.
How It Works
The sweet taste comes from steviol glycosides such as stevioside and rebaudioside A, which are about 200 to 300 times sweeter than sugar. They are not absorbed as sugar, so they add sweetness without raising blood sugar or adding calories. Gut bacteria break them down, and the body removes them in the urine. Laboratory studies suggest stevia compounds may also help the pancreas release insulin.
Dosage and Administration
Use as directed on the label. As a sweetener, use only the small amount needed to sweeten food or drinks. In herbal combination products, take the dose stated on the label, usually once or twice a day with meals. Normal use as a sweetener is considered safe for most people.
Interactions
- Medicines for diabetes such as Metformin, Gliclazide or Insulin: medicinal amounts of stevia leaf may lower blood sugar slightly more.
- Medicines for high blood pressure: possible extra lowering of blood pressure with larger amounts.
- Lithium: stevia may increase urine flow and affect lithium levels; ask your doctor.
Tell your doctor or pharmacist about all medicines and herbal products you use.
Contraindications
- Allergy to stevia or to plants of the daisy family, such as ragweed, chrysanthemum or marigold.
- Use of whole leaf or crude extracts in pregnancy, breastfeeding and children, as their safety is not established.
Side Effects
Purified stevia sweeteners are usually well tolerated. Some people notice a bitter aftertaste, bloating, nausea or loose stools, especially from products that also contain sugar alcohols. Allergic reactions are rare.
Get urgent medical help if you develop swelling of the face, lips or throat, difficulty breathing or a widespread rash, or signs of low blood sugar that do not improve after eating sugar.
Pregnancy and Lactation
Purified stevia sweeteners in normal food amounts are considered acceptable during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Avoid whole stevia leaf or crude extracts and herbal combination products at these times unless a doctor advises otherwise.
Precautions and Warnings
- People with diabetes should keep taking their prescribed medicines and check blood sugar as advised.
- People with low blood pressure should use medicinal amounts with care.
- Check labels, as some stevia products also contain sugar or other sweeteners.
Overdose
Overdose is unlikely. Very large amounts may cause stomach upset, bloating or diarrhoea. If a large amount of a herbal combination product has been taken, contact a doctor or the nearest hospital and take the pack with you.
Therapeutic Class
Natural non-nutritive sweetener and herbal ingredient for blood sugar support.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and out of the reach of children. Keep the container closed.
Prepared by the Oshud Alo team from standard drug references. For information only; always follow your doctor's advice.