| Stevia plant produces a natural, zero–calorie sweetener |
(NC)—Many Canadians are concerned about reducing the amount of added sugar in their diet. Zero and low–calorie sweeteners may offer the perfect solution: the sweetness of sugar with a lower calorie count.
Stevia is the source of a natural, plant–derived sweetener with zero calories and zero carbohydrates. The stevia plant is native to South America, specifically Brazil and Paraguay, and has been used for centuries to sweeten foods. Stevia leaves contain naturally sweet compounds that are 200 to 300 times sweeter than sugar. Rebaudioside A or Reb–A as it is commonly known, is the sweetest of all of the natural compounds of the stevia leaf. Studies have shown Reb–A to be a safe sugar alternative for use in foods and beverages. Research has also shown no adverse affects for those with diabetes and hypertension.
Stevia–based sweeteners are approved for use in many countries around the world. Stevia has been used commercially as a sweetener in Asia for more than 30 years. In Canada, Health Canada has approved the use of stevia in natural health products (NHPs) such as vitamin enhanced waters and herbal products. Consumers can also buy stevia leaves (fresh, dried or powdered) for use in their own cooking or baking. Food and beverage companies are developing their own products sweetened with natural stevia extract. PepsiCo Canada offers Tropicana brand's Trop50 vitamin enhanced juice beverages, Aquafina Plus+ Vitamins 10 Cal vitamin enhanced waters and SoBe Lo Cal enhanced fruit flavoured beverage. |
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(NC)—For the 3 million Canadians who have diabetes, it can be a challenge to eat right and control blood glucose levels. Those who have recently been diagnosed with the disease must also learn new dietary habits and pay much closer attention to factors like alcohol intake, vegetarianism and the food they eat when they are away from home. Here are a few recommendations that may help you in this regard.