Adding sweetness to food and beverages, sugar has always been the top pick for most sweetener requirements. However, the increasing concern about health among consumers and efforts to reduce sugar consumption have created an interest in other alternatives. Today, from soft drinks to baked goods, people use natural plant-based sweeteners like stevia. But how does stevia compare to sugar? Let's take a closer look at their key differences and why the stevia industry may be the better choice for many consumers.
Caloric Content: Stevia's Edge Over Sugar
One of the biggest differences between stevia and sugar is their calorie content. Sugar, especially white sugar, contains a lot of calories. For instance, one teaspoon of granulated sugar has about 16 calories, which can quickly accumulate throughout the day, especially in people who regularly consume sugary beverages or snacks.
In contrast to sugar, on the other hand, Stevia is a non-caloric sweetener. Since it comes from the Stevia rebaudiana leaves, stevia extracts contain some chemicals known as steviol glycosides. Since these chemical contribute to its taste without providing those extra calories coming from sugar, stevia may be appealingly attractive to any individual that hopes to shed more pounds or take control over calories.
Stevia has a negligible effect on blood sugar levels. Therefore, people with diabetes or anyone interested in managing their blood glucose levels can safely use it. Unlike sugar, whose introduction will increase blood sugar levels rapidly, stevia has a glycemic index of zero, meaning it doesn't lead to a raise in blood sugar. Some studies even suggest that stevia may enhance insulin sensitivity, which supports its use in managing diabetes.
Taste: How Stevia Measures Up Against Sugar
Whereas both stevia and sugar have sweetness, the way in which they produce that sweetness is somewhat different. Sugar tastes sweet, clean, with no aftertaste at all, and it has been for centuries. On the other hand, stevia's taste profile can be more complex. For some people, stevia will have an aftertaste, which may taste slightly bitter or licorice-like when consumed in excess.
Stevia and Blood Sugar: A Healthier Choice for Diabetics
The comparison of stevia and sugar can also be seen in the manner in which each affects blood sugar levels. Sugar causes a sudden increase in blood glucose, and this is quite detrimental to the health of diabetics and those who may become diabetic later in life. High sugar consumption leads to resistance to insulin, obesity, and other metabolic conditions.
Manufacturers have successfully improved the flavor of stevia-based products so that they don't taste too bitter, giving it a mass appeal. Despite this, several consumers will stick to sugar flavor, while a few will take stevia just because it has a natural source and provides the sweetness without bringing unwanted calories with it.
Benefits of Stevia: More than Just Sweetness
Besides being calorie-free, stevia has other benefits that sugar can never match. Stevia has antioxidants, which neutralize the harmful free radicals in the body and reduce oxidative stress. Such a reduction is likely to bring about improved health and reduced chances of chronic diseases such as heart disease and cancer.
Sugar provides no nutritional benefit but does provide calories. High sugar intake has been linked to many health problems and includes weight gain, tooth decay, and increased risk for metabolic diseases such as type 2 diabetes.
