Stevia Extract

NOMENCLATURE:

Botanical name / Scientific Name: Stevia rebaudiana
Common Name: Stevia

STANDARDIZED:

Stevio glycoside, Rebaudioside-A

GRADES:

Stevio glycoside, Rebaudioside – A

ANALYTICAL METHOD:

a) HPLC
As an alternative to sucrose or table sugar, using stevia as a sweetener carries the potential for considerable health benefits. Stevia is considered "no-calorie," meaning that it contains less than five grams of carbohydrate. They can be combined with other ingredients, so a few calories from those additional ingredients may be present depending on the product. Stevia does not strictly contain zero calories, but it is significantly less calorific than sucrose and low enough to be classified as such. The sweet-tasting components in stevia sweeteners occur naturally. This characteristic may benefit people who prefer naturally-sourced foods and beverages.

Function:

  • The low calorie count qualifies Stevia to be a healthful alternative for diabetes control or weight loss.
  • Stevia contains many sterols and antioxidant compounds, including kaempferol.
  • Certain glycosides in stevia extract have been found to dilate blood vessels. They can also increase sodium excretion and urine output.