Stevia, Blood Pressure, and Health: What Dieters Should Know
People with low blood pressure or gastrointestinal issues are often advised to limit stevia. Nutritionist Polina Vasilyeva, who practices as a therapist and laboratory medicine consultant at the Center for Molecular Diagnostics (CMD) of the Central Research Institute of Epidemiology, explains these cautions to socialbites.ca.
Stevia is a plant whose sweetest extracts come from glycosides, making it about 200 to 250 times sweeter than ordinary sugar. Despite its intense sweetness, stevia contains very few calories and does not trigger a sharp rise in blood glucose, which is particularly relevant for individuals managing diabetes.
Past fears about infertility linked to stevia have not been substantiated by science. For most people, stevia is safe to use, provided there are no existing allergies or other medical conditions that would warrant caution.
The nutritionist notes that regular use of stevia extract can contribute to lower blood pressure in some individuals. Because of this, those who naturally experience very low blood pressure or have certain gastrointestinal disorders should avoid long-term, high-dose stevia consumption. The key point is to stay within a recommended limit of 4 milligrams per kilogram of body weight per day; exceeding this amount could lead to adverse effects.
There have been rumors about stevia being removed from Russia’s list of permitted food additives, but current evidence shows no blanket prohibition. People should consult current regional guidance and medical advice if they have specific dietary concerns related to stevia.
In sum, stevia offers a calorie-light alternative to sugar, with potential benefits for blood sugar control and blood pressure management in some individuals. Yet its effects can vary, especially for those with hypotension or digestive sensitivities. Moderation and personalized advice from a health professional remain essential for any long-term dietary changes.
At the center of understanding stevia is recognizing its role as part of a balanced diet. For people without allergies and who monitor their blood pressure and digestion, stevia can be a useful sugar substitute. For others, careful attention to dosage and medical guidance is advised. Research in this area continues, and readers should stay informed through trusted health sources and official dietary recommendations.