Evidence supporting the use of: Stevia
For the health condition: Addictions (sugar or refined carbohydrates)

Links: Go back one page, Tool main page, Ingredients list, Health conditions list, Body systems list

Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Stevia, a natural sweetener derived from the leaves of Stevia rebaudiana, is primarily used as a sugar substitute. Its application in supporting or treating addictions to sugar or refined carbohydrates has some scientific basis, though the evidence is still emerging and not robust. Stevia provides sweetness without calories and does not raise blood glucose or insulin levels. This makes it an attractive alternative for individuals attempting to reduce their intake of sugar and refined carbohydrates, which are often implicated in addictive-like eating behaviors.

Several studies have investigated the potential of non-nutritive sweeteners, including stevia, to help reduce sugar cravings and overall caloric intake. For example, a 2010 study published in Appetite found that stevia consumption led to lower postprandial glucose and insulin levels compared to sucrose, and participants consuming stevia reported similar levels of satiety. While these findings suggest stevia can be part of a strategy to decrease sugar dependence, there is limited direct evidence demonstrating that stevia itself treats or "breaks" sugar addiction at a behavioral or neurochemical level.

In summary, while stevia is scientifically validated as a safe sugar alternative and may assist some people in reducing sugar and refined carbohydrate consumption, strong evidence for its use as a treatment for addiction to these substances is currently limited. Most research suggests it is helpful as a substitute, not a cure for addictive eating behaviors.

More about stevia
More about Addictions (sugar or refined carbohydrates)