Steviol Glycoside
Indications
Steviol glycosides are natural sweet substances extracted from the leaves of the stevia plant (Stevia rebaudiana). They are used as a zero-calorie or very low-calorie sugar substitute in tea, coffee, drinks and food. They are helpful for people with diabetes, people trying to lose weight, and anyone wanting to cut down on sugar.
How It Works
Steviol glycosides, such as rebaudioside A and stevioside, are around 200 to 300 times sweeter than sugar, so only tiny amounts are needed. They are not broken down into glucose in the gut, so they add sweetness without raising blood sugar or adding meaningful calories. Gut bacteria break them down to steviol, which is passed out of the body in the urine.
Dosage and Administration
Use as directed on the label, usually a drop or small sachet or tablet in place of each teaspoon of sugar. The acceptable daily intake set by international food safety experts is 4 mg per kg of body weight per day (as steviol), which is far more than normal use provides.
Interactions
No important interactions are expected in normal amounts. Very large amounts might add slightly to the effect of medicines for diabetes or blood pressure. Some products are blended with other sweeteners or sugar alcohols: read the label.
Contraindications
- Allergy to stevia or plants of the daisy family (such as ragweed, chrysanthemum or marigold).
Side Effects
Generally well tolerated. Some people notice a bitter or liquorice-like aftertaste. Products that also contain sugar alcohols such as erythritol may cause bloating, wind or loose stools if used in large amounts. Allergic reactions are rare.
Get urgent medical help if you develop swelling of the face, lips or throat, difficulty breathing, or a widespread rash.
Pregnancy and Lactation
Highly purified steviol glycosides are considered safe in normal food amounts during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Avoid crude stevia leaf or whole-leaf extracts, which have not been tested for safety.
Precautions and Warnings
- People with diabetes still need to watch the carbohydrates in the rest of their food and drink.
- Some tabletop products contain fillers such as dextrose or maltodextrin that add a little sugar: check the label.
- Stevia sweetener is not a treatment for diabetes.
Overdose
Overdose is very unlikely. Large amounts may cause stomach upset or loose stools, mainly from other ingredients in the product.
Therapeutic Class
Non-nutritive (zero-calorie) natural sweetener.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and out of the reach of children. Keep the container tightly closed.
Prepared by the Oshud Alo team from standard drug references. For information only; always follow your doctor's advice.
All brands of Steviol Glycoside