Stevia

Stevia is a natural sweetener extracted from the leaves of the Stevia rebaudiana plant, native to Paraguay and northeastern Argentina. This ingredient is known for its ability to sweeten without adding calories, making it a popular alternative to sugar in the preparation of healthy recipes and for people who control their glucose intake.

In cooking, stevia is used to sweeten beverages, desserts, sauces, and other dishes, providing sweetness without significantly altering the glycemic index. Furthermore, it is heat-stable, allowing for its use in baking and cooking.

Its notable properties include:

• Low calorie content: ideal for weight control diets.
• Does not raise blood sugar levels: suitable for diabetics.
• Natural origin: 100% plant-based, with no synthetic additives.

In some Latin American countries, stevia is also known as stevia sugar, sweet herb, or simply stevia. It is important not to confuse it with other artificial sweeteners, as its profile and origin are different.