Stevia, a plant-based sugar alternative, even sweetens Coca-Cola's specialized beverages. Drawing from years of nutritional research, here are six key facts about stevia that highlight its unique profile.
Stevia originates from a South American plant
Extracted from the leaves of Stevia rebaudiana, this sweetener has been used for centuries in Brazil and Paraguay to flavor foods and ease burns or stomach discomfort.
Not all store-bought stevia is purely natural
While plant-derived, many commercial versions undergo processing that alters their natural composition.
Stevia is up to 200 times sweeter than sugar
This potency means just a pinch delivers the sweetness of a full spoonful.
Stevia works as a baking sugar substitute
Ratios can be challenging—typically, 1 tablespoon of sugar equals about 1.25 teaspoons of stevia. Keep in mind, it won't caramelize.
Stevia's bitter aftertaste is genetic for some
Research reveals 40% of people notice a bitter edge with the sweetness, and 7.5% find it intensely so—a trait linked to genetics.
Stevia alone won't drive weight loss
As a zero-calorie option, its full health benefits and risks remain understudied.
Do you use stevia?
