In certain instances, people have reported numbness, affecting their hands, feet, or even the tongue
Blood Pressure and Blood Sugar Concerns
Stevia has been found to lower blood pressure, which could be problematic if you already have low blood pressure or are using medications or herbs with similar effects.
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Stevia may also have a blood sugar-lowering effect, which can be problematic if your blood sugar is already low or if you’re taking medications or herbs with similar properties
Allergic Reactions
Stevia belongs to the Asteraceae or Compositae plant family. If you have allergies to other plants within this family, such as ragweed, marigolds, chrysanthemums, or daisies, you may be at risk of an allergic reaction to stevia
Fertility Concerns of Stevia
Stevia has been traditionally used among native Indians in Paraguay for its potential contraceptive effects in men. Animal studies have yielded conflicting results, with some showing no impact on fertility and others suggesting a link between stevia consumption and reduced sperm count and testosterone levels (1✔ ✔Trusted Source
Contraceptive Properties of Stevia rebaudiana
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).
The acceptable daily intake of Stevia dry extract, as defined by the Scientific Committee on Food of the European Food Safety Authority and Food and Drug Administration, is 4 mg/kg body mass.
An earlier study indicated that Stevia extract reduced fertility in rats by up to 21%, with a 47% reduction even after a recovery period. This was accompanied by a decrease in seminal vesicle and testis weight, as well as a significant drop in stored spermatozoa (2✔ ✔Trusted Source
Natural sweetener Stevia rebaudiana: Functionalities, health benefits and potential risks
Go to source).
There have been conflicting findings regarding the mutagenic potential of steviol, with some studies confirming this effect and others not.
Animal studies indicate that steviol, a metabolite of stevioside, may be toxic during pregnancy, leading to adverse effects such as maternal mortality, decreased maternal weight gain, and reduced fetal weight gain.
While human effects are not well-documented, it’s prudent to exercise caution and avoid stevia during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
Notably, there is a long history of safe Stevia consumption by Paraguayans, and Japanese populations have reported no adverse effects despite consuming Stevia in large quantities. Most human studies also show no significant side effects (3✔ ✔Trusted Source
Plants Used as Means of Abortion, Contraception, Sterilization and Fecundation by Paraguayan Indigenous People
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In conclusion, stevia, while a promising calorie-free sweetener, is not without its potential side effects. Understanding these effects and maintaining moderation in consumption is essential for ensuring your well-being while enjoying the benefits of this natural sweetener.
References :
- Contraceptive Properties of Stevia rebaudiana – (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17744732/)
- Natural sweetener Stevia rebaudiana: Functionalities, health benefits and potential risks – (https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8600158/)
- Plants Used as Means of Abortion, Contraception, Sterilization and Fecundation by Paraguayan Indigenous People – (https://www.jstor.org/stable/4253849)
Source: Medindia
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