Health
Benefits
The
primary applications of Stevia include the following:
•
diabetes
• hypoglycemia
• obesity
• indigestion
• plaque retardant
• dental health
• hyperactivity
• yeast infections
• high blood pressure
• oral health
• carbohydrate cravings
• skin toning and healing
• tobacco and alcohol cravings
Regulating Blood Sugar
Known
for its nourishing properties for the pancreas, stevia
has the wondeful ability to help the body regulate
blood sugar. Several researchers have reported that
stevia seems to correct both high and low blood sugar
I. In some South American countries, stevia is sold
medicinally as aids for people with diabetes, hypoglycemia.
Lowering
Blood Pressure
Other
scientists have stated that stevia appears to lower
blood pressure, but does not seem to affect normal
blood pressure.
Digestive
Aid
Stevia
improves digestion and intestinal function, soothes
an upset stomach and promotes quicker recovery from
minor ailments. It is best to consume stevia as a
tea for this effect.
Antibacterial
Properties
Research
has demonstrated that stevia liquid concentrate inhibits
the growth and reproduction of harmful bacteria and
other infectious organisms, including those that are
a problem for the food and cosmetic industries.
Protection
from Dental Decay
Stevia
also inhibits the growth of the bacteria that cause
gum disease and tooth decay, and in many countries,
it is used in oral-hygiene products. Because such
products are not yet allowed by the FDA, many Americans
simply add several drops of stevia concentrate to
a small amount of water and use as a nightly mouthwash.
Protection
from Skin Disorders
Less
known, but no less remarkable, is the ability of water
based stevia to help heal numerous skin problems,
including acne, seborrhea, dermatitis and eczema.
It has also been observed that placing it in cuts
and wounds brings more rapid healing without the scarring.
Anti-wrinkles
Place
a few drops of stevia liquid concentrate on your skin,
rinse after 30 minutes and feel the difference in
skin tightening.
The
white powder stevioside mentioned earlier, although
more intensely sweet than the leaf or concentrate
and certainly safe for diabetics and hypoglycemics,
does not retain any of the healing properties described
above. It is far too sweet to be eaten by itself,
but it is in high demand by consumers who want a non-caloric
sweetener.
Weight-loss
Aid
Stevia
contains no calories and actually reduces cravings
for sweets and fatty foods. Studies have shown that
it also minimizes hunger sensations. Reports indicate
that if taken 20 minutes before a meal, you will feel
satiated sooner.
Addictions
Use
of stevia reduces cravings for tobacco, alcohol, sweet
and fatty foods. Chew directly on a stevia leaf or
take few drops of the stevia liquid to help curb cravings.
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