Tuesday, September 28, 2010

All Natural Sweetener - Stevia

I would like to introduce you to my best sweetener friend, Stevia.  Not only does Stevia taste great but it is a friend with benefits!

Stevia has many favorable and exciting health benefits and it is completely non-toxic. The herb is nutrient rich, containing substantial amounts of protein, calcium, and phosphorous, as well as sodium, magnesium, zinc, rutin, vitamin A, vitamin C, and over 100 phytonutrients. Here are some of its health benefits:


Weight Loss - Stevia contains no calories and actually reduces cravings for sweets and fatty foods. Studies have shown that it also minimizes hunger sensations. Once again your sweet tooth can be satisfied guilt free. It is not only a diet aide, but beneficial for you too. New reports are stating that if taken 20 minutes before a meal, you will feel satiated sooner.

Diabetes -  Known for its nourishing properties for the pancreas, stevia has been used by diabetics for centuries as a sweetener and also as a method of controlling blood sugar levels. Studies have shown that stevia can regulate blood sugar levels when taken appropriately. This is not meant to replace current practices of a diabetic, but as an aide to control diabetes.

Hypertension - Studies have shown that stevia lowers high blood pressure without affecting normal blood pressure. The Guarani Indians of Paraguay have used stevia for centuries without any negative effects.

Teeth & Gum Care -  Due to high beneficial mineral content and anti-bacterial properties, stevia is a wonderful additive to toothpaste or diluted as a mouthwash. Not only will it not cause cavities, but it actually prevents them!

Digestion - Improves digestion and intestinal function, soothes an upset stomach and promotes quicker recovery from minor ailments. It is best to consume stevia as a tea for this effect, although other methods may also be beneficial to digestion and minor ailments.

Skin Care - Applied to the skin, stevia treats acne and other skin ailments. It also protects against premature aging. Place a few drops of stevia liquid concentrate on your skin, rinse after 30 minutes and feel the difference. Stevia may also be used on skin infections. After a 20 second stinging sensation, the pain is significantly reduced and the healing time is accelerated.
 
Addictions/Cravings - Reports keep coming in that the use of stevia has reduced cravings for tobacco, alcohol, sweet and fatty foods. Chew directly on a stevia leaf or take a few drops of the stevia liquid to help curb cravings. Take 20 minutes before a meal to feel satiated sooner.





Stevia is an outstanding, sweet tasting herb that has remarkable health promoting qualities.  

Stevia is a genus of about 240 species of herbs and shrubs in the sunflower family (Asteraceae), native to subtropical and tropical regions from western North America to South America.(Wikipedia)

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