As we are aware of the consequences of consuming excess amounts of sugar, most of us opt for sugar free products or use artificial sweeteners. Stevia and aspartame are a few of the most popular artificial sweeteners used in America and many parts of the world, today. Stevia is a herb found in North and South America. This herb is claimed to be around 300 times sweeter than the ordinary sugar and hence, is used in a variety of foodstuff.

There are several claims of the potential stevia dangers that one should be aware of. So, is stevia safe for you? If not, what are its effects on the body? Let us find out in detail.

Dangers of Stevia

Stevia has been linked to several long term side effects which has made it a reason for controversy and doubt in the recent years. Although it has been used since centuries by the natives, there are several claimed dangers of stevia. The following are some of the claimed dangers or side effects of stevia.

* Firstly, it is said to be the biggest hindrance in the process of metabolism in the body. Regular consumption of stevia slows down or stops energy metabolism and hence, disrupt the process of conversion of food into energy.

* Secondly, one of the biggest stevia dangers is its link to cancer. When tested in a laboratory, it was found that stevia was capable of bringing mutations in cell's DNA or the genetic material. This is only a claimed side effect as this effect has not been observed in human beings till date. However, scientists and researchers have still not confirmed whether stevia can cause this mutation in human beings or not.

* Thirdly, difficulties or problems in reproduction is also believed to be one of the stevia side effects. Long term regular consumption of stevia is claimed to affect the male reproduction system, specially leading to a decreased amount of sperm production. When tested on female animal, it was found that stevia led to decreased number of offsprings.

These are some of the claimed stevia sweetener dangers. However, these are only the 'claimed' or the potential stevia dangers. It is also claimed that there have been no evidences of these dangers and hence, the controversy. Apart from this, the following are the most frequently asked questions on the same.

Questions About Dangers of Stevia

Is stevia dangerous?

Answer ~ Based on the above mentioned claims and the lack of evidences, it can be said that there is no foolproof answer to this query. There are also controversies regarding the dangers of stevia extract and its use with certain products. So, one can limit the intake to reduce the chances of side effects.

Is stevia safe during pregnancy?

Answer ~ Stevia has not been approved as safe by the FDA in the USA or other similar organizations in other countries. And there are also potential side effects associated with it. Therefore, stevia is not recommended during pregnancy. Rather than risking life, you should consume only those products that are approved and are positively safe.

Is stevia safe for diabetics?

Answer ~ As diabetics need to be extra cautious with their diet, they are not recommended to go for products like stevia, which are not approved by the FDA. Although no claimed side effects, it is better to consult the doctor for opinion, before including this product in the diet.

Along with these stevia dangers, you can also go through the benefits of stevia to read more on the other side of the story. Lastly, as an answer to the query, 'Is stevia bad for you?', it depends on the amount of intake. Remember, to be on the safer side, it is wise to limit its intake and not make it a habit or a regular food additive. Madhura Pandit