Stevia, a sweetener extracted from the plants of the genus Stevia rebaudiana, has experienced a rising trend in consumers' preference to be healthier than plain sugar. Still, is it only sweeteners that stevia liquifies, and what makes them different from their sugar-driven alternatives? One question arises: Which variety of stevia-sweetened beverages should be sampled? Let's try them out!
Understanding Stevia
The drinks that choose stevia as the sweetener get into the limelight. Before exploring the beverages threatened naturally by stevia, let's dig deeper into stevia and how it works differently compared to trainers.
Zero Calories
One of the most important features of stevia is its zero-calorie level. Thus, stevia-sweetened beverages can fulfill your sweet tooth without increasing calorie intake with the extra calories that come from sugar. This makes them a good option for people trying to reduce their calorie consumption and those who want to lose weight.
Intense Sweetness
In this aspect, stevia differs from table sugar, which is calorie-free and much sweeter than table sugar. It can be a certain concern to people trying to maintain a healthy diet. The high intensity of the sweet taste of stevia makes it a versatile sweetener since it can be used in small amounts to reduce sugar content in beverages.
Advantages of the Intake of Stevia-based Drinks.
Reduced Sugar Intake
When you select stevia-sweetened drinks as an alternative to sugar-sweetened ones, you not only reduce the sugar intake but also free you from the consequences of eating a lot of sugar. Stevia tastes sweet without the calories that sugar involves, making it a smart choice for those trying to cut back on the sugars that their diet includes.
Weight Management Support
Stevia-sweetened beverages will help stave off weight while giving a sweet flavor, provided they are void of the calorie increase from sugar. If you take sugary drinks and use stevia-sweetened ones instead, you will undoubtedly reduce your daily calorie intake. Such an approach will help you either lose or maintain your current weight.
Blood Sugar Management
Unlike sugar-filled drinks that may cause fluctuations in blood sugar, stevia-in-its-liquid form has minimal effect on blood glucose, making it diabetes-friendly, and people with high blood sugar levels can have it without fear. Stevia provides sweetness without altering insulin production; consequently, insulin secretion remains normal, enabling better blood glucose regulation.
H2 Kinds of Drinks Using Stevia
Stevia, the natural sweetener, has entered the soft drinks market, where most beverages contain pure sugar. It thereby provides a healthy substitute for traditional sweetened drinks. Nowadays, makers prefer stevia because it is a popular drink that is already used as a sweetener.
Soft Drinks
In recent years, several soft drink brands have begun to add their product to reduce the sugar content and find appeal amongst the health-conscious. Stevia-sweetened soft drinks can please your palate as much as carbonated sodas, providing the same fizz, thirst quench and flavor while consuming fewer calories and no added sugars.
Flavored Water
Steviaflavored waters are gaining attention nowadays as most people are looking for beverages that not only quench their thirst but also express their tastes. With these options available, it is no longer necessary to use plain water. You can avoid the additional sugars in sugary beverages using these flavors derived from stevia.
Sports Drinks
Sports drinks sweetened with stevia supply a hydrating substitute for the athletes and fitness fanatics who need a little niceness in their routine. The major health issue with this sports drink is the excessive sugar. Hence, these drinks are usually fortified with electrolytes and minerals to restore the body post-exercise, thus offering a reasonable and healthy option over conventional sports drinks.
Ready-to-Drink Teas
Stevia-flavored pre-mixed brewed teas serve as a refreshing antioxidant-infused pleasure for those who enjoy drinking tea in a hurry. Cheerfulness doesn't matter whether it's green tea, black tea or herbal blends. They all provide delight in the taste of tea with the sweetness of sugar but no calories.
Coffee and Tea Enhancers
The stevia-based sweeteners are a popular choice among those looking for natural sweeteners instead of sugar for their coffee or tea. Individuals can now sweeten their hot or cold beverages with the ease of a few drops of convenient liquid or powdery sweeteners without affecting the flavor profile.
Conclusion
The sweetened flavors of stevia drinks can completely replace conventional sugar beverages, as these do not contain the sugar required separately in traditional drinks. Liquor, pop, sports drinks, and ready-to-go teas are all choices for consumers who wish to incorporate stevia into their menu.
Awareness of the pros and cons of stevia-sweetened drinks makes informed choices, which in turn helps people stay away from diseases. After that, do not just grab any sugary drink the next time you feel thirsty; aim for the glass, teapot or bottle of naturally sweetened stevia for a low-calorie refreshment that states your palate while meeting your health goals.
