Kinghorn, A. D., Soejarto, D. D., Nanayakkara, N. P., Compadre, C. M., Makapugay, H. C., Hovanec-Brown, J. M., Medon, P. J., and Kamath, S. K. A phytochemical screening procedure for sweet ent-kaurene glycosides in the genus Stevia. J Ethnopharmacol 1999;67:157-61. https://www.fda.gov/consumers/consumer-updates/how-sweet-it-all-about-sugar-substitutes. Stevia is available in a few different forms. A single copy of these materials may be reprinted for noncommercial personal use only. https://www.fda.gov/ora/fiars/ora_import_ia4506.html (Accessed 21 April 2004). Sweeteners made with Reb-A are considered novel sweeteners because theyre blended with different sweeteners, such as erythritol (a sugar alcohol) and dextrose (glucose). Developmental toxicity of steviol, a metabolite of stevioside, in the hamster. U.S. Food and Drug Administration. You can grow stevia plants at home and use the leaves to sweeten foods and beverages. Some other potential side effects of stevia include allergic reactions. How Does Stevia Compare to Other Zero-Calorie Sweeteners? But it's not clear whether sugar substitutes can help people manage their weight over the long term. Potential complications with the overuse of stevia products during pregnancy include: Researchers still do not understand the full range of risks associated with stevia. Curi R, Alvarez M, Bazotte RB, et al. J Ethnopharmacol 2021;265:113188. Mayo Clinic. Stevia's taste has a slower onset and longer duration than that of sugar, and at high concentrations some of its extracts may have an aftertaste described as licorice -like or bitter. Boonkaewwan, C., Toskulkao, C., and Vongsakul, M. Anti-Inflammatory and Immunomodulatory Activities of Stevioside and Its Metabolite Steviol on THP-1 Cells. Microbiol Immunol 1997;41:1005-9. Your lithium dose might need to be changed. Wasuntarawat C, Temcharoen P, Toskulkao C, et al. Ashwell, M. (2015). Stevia also has blood pressure and blood glucoselowering effects, so people on certain medications or conditions should speak with their healthcare provider before using stevia for a prolonged period. stomach discomfort or upset. DOI: Ukiya M, et al. 2005 - 2023 WebMD LLC. It is safe to consume stevia every day. A double-blind placebo-controlled study of the effectiveness and tolerability of oral stevioside in human hypertension. If we combine this information with your protected That's because sugar substitutes often are low in calories or have no calories. View abstract. Nutrients. A January 2015 study published in Food and Chemical Toxicology explained that there's little evidence to support that there is any link between allergic reactions and highly purified stevia extracts. Reb-A is about 200 times sweeter than table sugar. Again, to be safe, only use the type of stevia that is considered safe by the FDA (anything that's pure stevia extract rather than crude extracts or the leaf itself). Stamataki NS, Crooks B, Ahmed A, McLaughlin JT. Sugar alcohols, stevia and luo han guo can cause bloating, gas and diarrhea. Ajami M, Seyfi M, Abdollah Pouri Hosseini F, et al. Metabolic effects of non-nutritive sweeteners. Natural sweeteners in a human diet [Abstract]. fda.gov/aboutfda/transparency/basics/ucm194320.htm, fda.gov/Food/GuidanceRegulation/GuidanceDocumentsRegulatoryInformation/LabelingNutrition/ucm456090.htm, ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6627124/, diabetes.org/food-and-fitness/food/what-can-i-eat/understanding-carbohydrates/artificial-sweeteners/not-completely-carbohydrate.html, krepublishers.com/02-Journals/S-EM/EM-03-0-000-09-Web/EM-03-2-000-2009-Abst-PDF/EM-03-2-137-09-047-Sharma-N/EM-03-2-137-09-047-Sharma-N-Tt.pdf, mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/nutrition-and-healthy-eating/expert-answers/stevia/faq-20057856. Jeppesen, P. B., Gregersen, S., Alstrup, K. K., and Hermansen, K. Stevioside induces antihyperglycaemic, insulinotropic and glucagonostatic effects in vivo: studies in the diabetic Goto-Kakizaki (GK) rats. Stevia side effects. Talk with your healthcare provider before using this product if you are taking lithium. Another popular zero-calorie sweetener issucralose, sold under the brand name Splenda. Using sugar substitutes might make your symptoms flare up. Jeppesen PB, Gregersen S, Poulsen CR, Hermansen K. Stevioside acts directly on pancreatic beta cells to secrete insulin: actions independent of cyclic adenosine monophosphate and adenosine triphosphate-sensitive K+-channel activity. other information we have about you. Effects of aspartame-, monk fruit-, stevia- and sucrose-sweetened beverages on postprandial glucose, insulin and energy intake. https://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/causes-prevention/risk/diet/artificial-sweeteners-fact-sheet. Last medically reviewed on December 3, 2018. Stevia might lower blood pressure. Some stevia brands also contain natural flavors. It found that many stevia glycoside derivatives were toxic to specific leukemia, lung, stomach, and breast cancer cell lines. As a type of steroid, steviol glycosides can interfere with hormones controlled by the endocrine system. And it may also interact with drugs like lithium. Int J Obes (Lond). Evaluation of the genotoxicity of stevioside and steviol using six in vitro and one in vivo mutagenicity assays. Stevia isn't damaging to the body. The hemodynamic effects of rebaudioside A in healthy adults with normal and low-normal blood pressure. View abstract. When used as a sweetener or to flavor foods, experts do not consider highly purified stevia to cause adverse side effects. The agency doesn't consider sugar alcohols to be food additives. Artificial sweeteners: Weight loss friend or foe? 2. Accessed Nov. 11, 2022. Nutrition Journal. According to the Mayo Clinic, signs of allergic reaction may include: Tingling or itching in the mouth. This amount is called the acceptable daily intake (ADI). Honey contains mostly sugar, as well as a mix of amino acids, vitamins, minerals, iron, zinc and antioxidants. Some stevia side effects include digestive or stomach issues, allergies, an increased risk of weight gain and potential endocrine disruption. The hidden hazardous effects of Stevia and sucralose consumption in male and female albino mice in comparison to sucrose. 2020-2025 Dietary Guidelines for Americans. information is beneficial, we may combine your email and website usage information with Best food forward: Are algae the future of sustainable nutrition? View abstract. It may take some trial and error to get the texture and level of sweetness you like. These ingredients add small amounts of carbs and calories. However, there still isn't enough evidence or medical consensus on the benefits of stevia, and its side effects are still being explored. Routine consumption of these sweeteners may also lead to a higher risk of cardiometabolic disease. Uncontrolled Blood Sugar: How Dangerous Is It. Sucralose is derived from sugar in a chemical process and is 400700 times sweeter than sugar. Advertisements 3. J Nat Prod. View abstract. Stevia is safe for most people to use. However, the ADI for steviol is 4 milligrams (mg) per kilogram body weight per day. Safety of a proposed amendment of the specifications for steviol glycosides (E 960) as a food additive: to expand the list of steviol glycosides to all those identified in the leaves of Stevia Rebaudiana Bertoni. Bactericidal activity of a fermented hot-water extract from Stevia rebaudiana Bertoni towards enterohemorrhagic Escherichia coli O157:H7 and other food-borne pathogenic bacteria. View abstract. You can bake with stevia, although it may give cakes and cookies a licorice aftertaste. Yadav, A. Braz J Med Biol Res 1996;29:669-75. View abstract. People with chronic low blood pressure should speak to a doctor about prolonged stevia use. Moreover, people with certain medical conditions must stay away from this sweetener. CFSAN/Office of Food Additive Safety. Stevia contains zero calories and carbohydrates, while sugar contains 15 calories and 4 carbohydrates per teaspoon. In this article, we look at the possible risks and side effects associated with this natural sweetener. Foods and drinks with aspartame can lead to serious health problems. All rights reserved. But if you often have foods and drinks with lots of added sugar, the empty calories can add up. Theres some evidence to suggest that stevia may help fight or prevent some types of cancer. And while the study published in December 2015 in Physiology & Behavior also investigated whether stevia can impair gut flora in the digestive tract, more research is needed to solidify the link. More recent studies, however, have concluded that stevia may help prevent kidney damage. Though research on this issue is limited, it's possible that stevia may have an effect on the endocrine system, which includes glands that produce hormones. muscle cramps. 5 Best Sugar Substitutes for People with Diabetes, Diet Drinks Won't Protect Heart Health Any Better Than Sugary Drinks: Study, Study: Raw Honey May Improve Blood Sugar and Cholesterol Levels, Stevia, Nature's Zero-Calorie Sustainable Sweetener: A New Player in the Fight Against Obesity, Additional information about high-intensity sweeteners, Effects of aspartame-, monk fruit-, stevia- and sucrose-sweetened beverages on postprandial glucose, insulin and energy intake, Sucralose administered in feed, beginning prenatally through lifespan, induces hematopoietic neoplasias in male swiss mice, Health outcomes of non-nutritive sweeteners: analysis of the research landscape, Gastrointestinal Disturbances Associated with the Consumption of Sugar Alcohols with Special Consideration of Xylitol: Scientific Review and Instructions for Dentists and Other Health-Care Professionals, Low-Dose Stevia (Rebaudioside A) Consumption Perturbs Gut Microbiota and the Mesolimbic Dopamine Reward System, he hidden hazardous effects of Stevia and sucralose consumption in male and female albino mice in comparison to sucrose, Rebaudioside affords hepatoprotection ameliorating sugar sweetened beverage- induced nonalcoholic steatohepatitis, FDA regulatory approach to steviol glycosides. (2017). Prunes and prune juice have many health benefits. May Have Anticancer Abilities Plants that come from the Asteraceae family that have been known to cause allergies include ragweed and sunflower seeds. MNT is the registered trade mark of Healthline Media. If youre sensitive to sugar alcohols, choose a brand that doesnt contain erythritol. View abstract. Grembecka, M. (2015). Low-dose stevia (Rebaudioside A) consumption perturbs gut microbiota and the mesolimbic dopamine reward system. That equates to about 12 mg of high-purity stevia extracts per kilogram of body weight per day. View abstract. While some studies have shown stevia can be used to manage diabetes and weight loss, a study published in July 2017 in Canadian Medical Association Journal showed that consuming nonnutritive sweeteners frequently may actually result in an increase in body mass index (BMI). Artificial sweeteners can be a short-term way to help some people lessen their use of sugar and lose or manage weight. Learn about the pros and cons of sugar substitutes, also called artificial sweeteners. Healthline has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical associations. But limit or cut out sugar substitutes: Dietary guidelines for Americans say adults shouldn't give sugar substitutes to children under 2 years old. Metabolically activated steviol, the aglycone of stevioside, is mutagenic. Theres a big difference between the stevia you buy at the grocery store and the stevia you may grow at home. Verywell Health's content is for informational and educational purposes only. Studies dating back to the 1970s linked the artificial sweetener saccharin to bladder cancer in rats. How sweet it is: All about sugar substitutes. Know your limit for added sugars. You may opt-out of email communications at any time by clicking on Monitor your blood pressure closely. In some people, stevia products made with sugar alcohols may cause digestive problems, such as bloating and diarrhea. Effects of stevioside and steviol on intestinal glucose absorption in hamsters. View abstract. Regul Toxicol Pharmacol 2008;51:37-41. Potential side effects linked to stevia consumption include: Stevia is considered a diuretic, meaning that it increases the speed at which the body expels water and electrolytes from the body in urine. 2007;232(1):164-173. Indigenous people in South America have been using it as a sweetener for hundreds of years, according to a study published in May 2015 in Nutrition Today. Many sugar substitutes taste sweeter than sugar. These are compounds extracted and refined from the leaves of the Stevia rebaudiana plant. Abudula, R., Jeppesen, P. B., Rolfsen, S. E., Xiao, J., and Hermansen, K. Rebaudioside A potently stimulates insulin secretion from isolated mouse islets: studies on the dose-, glucose-, and calcium-dependency. Takasaki, M., Konoshima, T., Kozuka, M., Tokuda, H., Takayasu, J., Nishino, H., Miyakoshi, M., Mizutani, K., and Lee, K. H. Cancer preventive agents. The ADI is the maximum average daily intake of a substance over a person's lifetime that is expected to be safe. 2003;41(3):359-374. Steviol glycosides are natural constituents of the leaves of Stevia rebaudiana (Bertoni) Bertoni, a plant native to parts of South America and commonly known as Stevia. Researchers are checking to see if sugar substitutes affect cravings for sweets, the way people feel hunger and how the body manages blood sugar. the unsubscribe link in the e-mail. Artificial sweeteners and other sugar substitutes. However, since stevia can have blood pressure and blood glucoselowering effects, as well as diuretic effects, those taking certain medications or who have certain health conditions should talk with their healthcare provider before consuming significant quantities of Stevia. Low-calorie sweeteners are often perceived as a healthful alternative to sugar, but a new study finds that they may actually increase fat formation. CFSAN/Office of Food Additive Safety. Sucralose. The use of nonnutritive sweeteners in children. Health effects of the use of non-sugar sweeteners. Phytother Res 2006;20:732-6. As with most nonnutritive sweeteners, a major downside is the taste. All rights reserved. The amount of sugar alcohol that causes these symptoms varies from person to person. Stevia (Pure Via, Truvia) Artificial sweeteners are also called sugar substitutes, low-calorie sweeteners or nonnutritive sweeteners. Effects of Stevia Rebaudiana on Glucose Homeostasis, Blood Pressure and Inflammation: A Critical Review of Past and Current Research Evidence. Common side effects of stevia include: Allergic reaction This document does not contain all possible side effects and others may occur. Sugar substitutes also are not linked to a higher risk of cancer in people. Stevia stomach upset, however, may be a cause for concern. Almost everyone likes a sugary snack. Rebecca Valdez is a registered dietitian nutritionist and nutrition communications consultant, passionate about food justice, equity, and sustainability. A snack labeled low sugar or no sugar may not be the most nutritious choice. 000252. Sugar, particularly refined sugars, has been linked to countless health risks, including diabetes and heart disease. For adults and children with overweight or obesity, sugar substitutes also might help manage weight in the short term. (2013). Psychological Effects Principles and methods for the risk assessment of chemicals. This article explains what whole eating is and shares 11 simple ways clean up your. If you use stevia now and then, it may not be enough to impact your blood sugar. Reducing sugar in your diet, and instead replacing it with other sweeteners, could potentially reduce that risk. Can whole-grain foods lower blood pressure? Stevia leaf extract, known to most as stevia, is a natural, zero-calorie sweetener used as asugar substitute. Stevia is known to act as a vasodilator, causing the blood vessels to widen and lowering overall blood pressure. 2012;132(3):1121-1132. View abstract. According to a 2015 review, there are very few reported cases of stevia allergy. While stevia is generally considered safe to be used in food and drink, some extracts of the plant have not been approved by the Food & Drug Administration (FDA). This article looks at its benefits, potential risks, sources, and the research behind its health, New research shows that an enzyme produced by the liver causes inflammation in the abdominal fat, raising the risk of insulin resistance and diabetes, The natural, no-calorie sweetener stevia may help people with diabetes to control their blood sugar levels. Though they're rare, stevia's side effects can include gastrointestinal symptoms, decreased blood pressure and blood sugar, and potential impacts on the liver. Although most of the existing research concerns the two major compounds in stevia stevioside and rebaudioside A (reb A) a 2016 study using human fecal samples concluded that all forms of the compound are probably safe for general use. However, whole stevia leaf is not approved by the FDA and is not generally recognized as safe for consumption by anyone, especially pregnant people. Some people are at an increased risk of developing side effects from regular stevia use. stevia leaf extract (greater than 95% steviol glycosides) was determined to be generally recognized as safe in 2008 by the FDA. Rebaudioside affords hepatoprotection ameliorating sugar sweetened beverage- induced nonalcoholic steatohepatitis. So, practice caution. Therapeutic Research Faculty 2020. A review on the improvement of stevia [Stevia rebaudiana (Bertoni). M S, M P, E T, et al. All rights reserved. Studies using rat embryos have established that stevia did not affect pregnancy or fertility outcomes and was non-toxic to fetal tissues. These problems may be less likely to occur if blood pressure is controlled. Chaturvedula, V. S. and Prakash, I. Low blood sugar: Stevia has the potential to lower blood sugar (blood glucose), especially in those using it to replace sugar. Theyre made from a highly refined stevia leaf extract called rebaudioside A (Reb-A). Anton SD, et al. information submitted for this request. Stevia might lower blood sugar levels. Forms include: Stevia is much sweeter than sugar and may be up to 250300 times sweeter than sucrose, the molecule in table sugar. The study concluded that stevia may act as an endocrine disruptor, or a chemical that can interfere with hormones. Apparent lack of pharmacological effect of steviol glycosides used as sweeteners in humans. Here are 8 ways food companies hide the sugar content of foods. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our. Stevia, also called Stevia rebaudiana, is a plant that is a member of the chrysanthemum family, a subgroup of the Asteraceae family (ragweed family). View abstract. This has since been proven highly unlikely, except in individuals with abnormally low blood sugar levels. Development of rebiana, a natural, non-caloric sweetener. Some stevia side effects include digestive or stomach issues, allergies, an increased risk of weight gain and potential endocrine disruption. Chan P, Xu DY, Liu JC, et al. View abstract. Interestingly, stevia isn't a new discovery either. To avoid stevia stomach upset, be careful before purchasing stevia products. Stevia is a nonnutritive sweetener. However, not enough research exists to support this claim. We link primary sources including studies, scientific references, and statistics within each article and also list them in the resources section at the bottom of our articles. View abstract. However, studies suggest that consuming sugar substitutes such as stevia in place of sugar does not have an impact on overall daily calories intake or blood sugar levels. Stevia products found on grocery store shelves, such as Truvia and Stevia in the Raw, dont contain whole stevia leaf. It may seem strange that a highly refined product is considered safer than a natural one. View abstract. This article discusses the different forms of stevia and the side effects of this sugar alternative. Because of this, it takes only a small amount of artificial sweeteners to sweeten foods. Some stevia side effects include potentially making it harder to lose weight. EFSA Panel on Food Additives and Flavourings (FAF), Younes M, Aquilina G, et al. In 1991, the FDA banned stevia over concerns that it was linked tocancer. Yang, P. S., Lee, J. J., Tsao, C. W., Wu, H. T., and Cheng, J. T. Stimulatory effect of stevioside on peripheral mu opioid receptors in animals. Anything that actively lowers blood pressure can cause health complications with excessive, long-term use. GRN No. Learn more about stevia side effects to educate yourself on how to incorporate sweeteners into your diet. Artificial sweeteners and cancer. According to a 2020 review, "In addition to its hypoglycemic property, the stevia plant also exhibits antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, hypotensive, antiseptic, diuretic, anti-fertility and cardiotonic properties." Below are some of the main advantages associated with stevia use: 1. Chen, T. H., Chen, S. C., Chan, P., Chu, Y. L., Yang, H. Y., and Cheng, J. T. Mechanism of the hypoglycemic effect of stevioside, a glycoside of Stevia rebaudiana. CONDITIONS OF USE AND IMPORTANT INFORMATION: This information is meant to supplement, not replace advice from your doctor or healthcare provider and is not meant to cover all possible uses, precautions, interactions or adverse effects. Artificial sweeteners are many times sweeter than sugar. Ginkgo biloba has been widely cultivated across the globe for a variety of uses, most of which are medicinal. The differences and similarities between Truvia and stevia. The FDA allows product-makers to use sugar alcohols, such as sorbitol and xylitol, too. People who may be more likely to experience side effects from stevia include people taking medications to lower blood pressure or blood glucose or those diagnosed with: Stevia leaf extract is safe to consume when pregnant or breastfeeding. stevia taxes the adrenals: Another response to stevia that some experience is hypoglycemia. Perrier J, Mihalov J, Carlson S. FDA regulatory approach to steviol glycosides. Other sugar substitutes called sugar alcohols are not as sweet as sugar. These can be added to foods or drinks at home. It is based on significant research. Stevia might have an effect like a water pill or "diuretic." A pinch of stevia powder is equal to about one teaspoon of table sugar. Koyama, E., Kitazawa, K., Ohori, Y., Izawa, O., Kakegawa, K., Fujino, A., and Ui, M. In vitro metabolism of the glycosidic sweeteners, stevia mixture and enzymatically modified stevia in human intestinal microflora. J Med Assoc Thai. View abstract. Friend or Foe? Certain chemicals in stevia are commonly used as natural food sweeteners. Mayo Clinic Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Mayo Clinic School of Continuous Professional Development, Mayo Clinic School of Graduate Medical Education, Available Health Products from Mayo Clinic Store, Book: Mayo Clinic Family Health Book, 5th Edition, Book: Mayo Clinic 5 Steps to Controlling High Blood Pressure, Newsletter: Mayo Clinic Health Letter Digital Edition, Autism spectrum disorder and digestive symptoms, Bad food habits at work? However, some may experience the following when consuming products sweetened with stevia: Early studies of stevia suggested it was linked to cancer, causing the initial FDA ban in 1991. Stevia may be a healthy option for those looking to lower their calorie or carbohydrate intake, such as people with type 2 diabetes. Available at: https://www.cfsan.fda.gov/~rdb/opa-g252.html. View abstract. The side effects of stevia include gastrointestinal issues, extremely low blood sugar levels, endocrine disruption, sore muscles, and numbness. Sign up for free, and stay up to date on research advancements, health tips and current health topics, like COVID-19, plus expertise on managing health. 2017;16(1):55. doi:10.1186/s12937-017-0278-x. High doses or heavy, long-term use of stevia may worsen common pregnancy symptoms by increasing the workload on organs such as the kidneys, bladder, and heart. stevia leaves molasses It is still important to limit intake of natural sweeteners, as they have the same health risks as excess refined sugar, such as weight gain, diabetes, and tooth decay.. Our website services, content, and products are for informational purposes only. 2020;150(5):1126-1134. This side effect might. Both have pros and cons, but is one better for you? Consuming too few carbohydrates can lead to low blood sugar, leading to headaches, dizziness, shaking, and other symptoms. View abstract. Int J Occup Environ Health. View abstract. Until research determines whether whole-leaf stevia is safe for everyone, get your doctors approval before using it regularly, especially if you have a serious medical condition such as diabetes, heart disease, or high blood pressure. information and will only use or disclose that information as set forth in our notice of Agency Response Letter: GRAS Notice No. There are about 320 different varieties of honey, which vary in color, odor and flavor. Don't get tricked by these 3 heart-health myths, Get to know the new Nutrition Facts label, Nutrition rules that will fuel your workout, Nuts and your heart: Eating nuts for heart health. Factors that may increase the risk of stevia side effects include: There are many different types of steviol glycoside found in stevia, classified into five major groups. ", Contemporary Clinical Trials Communications: "Preliminary Analysis of the Effect of Stevia (Stevia rebaudiana) in Patients With Chronic Kidney Disease (Stage I to Stage III)", Physiology & Behavior: "Metabolic Effects of Non-Nutritive Sweeteners", Canadian Medical Association Journal: "Nonnutritive Sweeteners and Cardiometabolic Health: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials and Prospective Cohort Studies", Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center: "Stevia", Food and Chemical Toxicology: "Steviol Glycoside Safety: Are Highly Purified Steviol Glycoside Sweeteners Food Allergens? Nutrients 2020;12(10):3049. View abstract. Study participants consumed 20 milliliters of stevia extract daily for one month. In addition to its use as a natural sweetener, honey is used as an . Geuns, J. M., Buyse, J., Vankeirsbilck, A., and Temme, E. H. Metabolism of stevioside by healthy subjects. WebMD does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. 8 Ways Food Companies Hide the Sugar Content of Foods, 11 Simple Ways to Focus on Whole Foods Instead of Clean Eating, Berberine A Powerful Supplement With Many Benefits, The Top Health Benefits of Prunes and Prune Juice, What to Know About Andrographis Supplements: Potential Benefits and Uses, Kerry Boyle D.Ac., M.S., L.Ac., Dipl. 1984;47(3):439-444. Many people choose to replace sugar with stevia to reduce their calorie consumption. Sugar substitutes also don't raise the level of sugar in the blood. It also increased HDL (good) cholesterol. Can poor sleep impact your weight loss goals? Office of Regulatory Affairs. However, the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) only consider high-purity steviol glycosides to be safe for human consumption currently. Garner C. Nutrition in pregnancy: Assessment and counseling. shakiness skin blisters slurred speech sore throat sores, ulcers, or white spots on the lips or in the mouth stomach cramps, tenderness, or pain sweating swelling of the eyes, face, or inside of the nose swelling or inflammation of the mouth swollen or painful glands trouble breathing unusual bleeding or bruising watery or bloody diarrhea Stevia may cause mild digestive issues like nausea, according to Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center. 2. If youre trying to lose weight, this aspect may be appealing. However, the FDA reversed the ban in 1995 after a follow-up study found no connection. Ashwell M. Stevia, Nature's Zero-Calorie Sustainable Sweetener: A New Player in the Fight Against Obesity. For professional medical information on natural medicines, see Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database Professional Version. Currently, there isnt enough evidence that whole-leaf stevia or crude stevia extract wont harm your pregnancy. It varies by a person's weight and the type of sugar substitute used.