STEVIA
Sweetener of the Future

Stevia is one of the most beneficial plants on earth. What whole leaf Stevia does both inside the body and on the skin is incredible. Native to Paraguay it is a small green plant bearing leaves which have a delicious and refreshing taste that can be 30 times sweeter than sugar. Besides the intensely sweet glycosides (Steviosides, Rebaudiosides and Dulcoside, which are 250-400 times sweeter than sugar) for which Stevia is renowned, it is remarkably nutritious. Various studies have identified different nutrients. They include: Vitamin C, Beta-Carotene (Vitamin A), Chromium, Cobalt, Vegetable fat, Fiber, Iron, Magnesium, Manganese, Niacin, Phosphorus, Potassium, Protein, Riboflavin, Selenium, Silicon, Sodium, Thiamin, Water, Zinc and an oil which contains 53 other constituents. Quality Stevia leaves, whole leaf concentrate and Stevia extracts are nutritious, natural dietary supplements offering numerous health benefits. While Stevia is used in other countries as a no calorie sweetener, it may be sold in the United States only as a dietary supplement or for skin care. Christine's Cleanse Corner offers Stevia in many consumer friendly forms. 

It is estimated that well over 500 scientific studies have been performed on Stevia in its various forms. While most of these have concentrated on Stevia as the preferred sweetener of the future, many have reported the numerous health benefits of adding Stevia to the daily diet. While virtually all researchers have recommended even more studies of the health promoting aspects of Stevia they report its apparent ability to regulate blood sugar and bring it toward a normal balance. In some South American countries Stevia is recommended as an aid for people with diabetes and hypoglycemia. Since its introduction into the United States, people have reported that taking 20-30 drops of Stevia concentrate with each meal afforded significant improvement in their blood glucose levels within a short time period. Because each individual's condition is different, such experimentation should be done under the supervision of a qualified physician. An important benefit for hypoglycemics is Stevia's tonic action which increases energy levels and mental acuity. 

Studies have indicated that Stevia tends to lower elevated blood pressure but does not seem to affect normal blood pressure. It also inhibits the growth and reproduction of some bacteria and other infectious organisms, including the bacteria that cause tooth decay and gum disease. Regular users of Stevia as a mouthwash or for brushing teeth (added to toothpaste) have reported an end to bleeding gum problems. This has yet to be studied in a clinical setting. This inhibition of oral bacteria may explain why users of Stevia enhanced products report a lower incidence of colds and flu. 

Stevia is an exceptional aid in weight loss and weight management because it contains no calories and tends to reduce one's cravings for sweets and fatty foods. Hunger sensations are usually reduced when 10-15 drops of Stevia concentrate are taken 20 minutes before meals. Preliminary research data indicates that Stevia may actually reset the hunger mechanism in people where the pathway between the hypothalamus and the stomach has become obstructed. If this proves to be true, Stevia would cause them to feel satiated sooner, thus helping them to naturally eat less. 

Stevia has been shown to improved digestion and gastrointestinal function, soothed upset stomachs and quicker recovery from minor illness. Stevia is a remarkable plant. Adding it to the daily diet is something to which everyone should give serious consideration.

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Stevia, Nature’s Sweetener