Stevia vs Sugar: The Best Natural Sweetener for Summer 

Did you know that in Pakistan, each person consumes approximately 16 teaspoons of sugar daily? The amount of sugar consumed spikes as soon as the summer season arrives. This processed sugar causes severe issues like obesity, diabetes, and other health concerns. This situation is alarming! But what if there were a natural alternative with zero calories and numerous health benefits? Let’s explore the best natural sweeteners for summer, along with detailed nutritional facts. 

Stevia vs Sugar: Nutritional Facts

Stevia and sugar both satisfy your craving by adding sweetness to your food. But they have several impacts on your body beyond taste. From daily calories to long-term health, choosing the best natural sweetener can significantly impact your wellness journey. Additionally, understanding their effects on health helps you make healthier dietary decisions.

Stevia is a sugar substitute made from the Stevia rebaudiana plant. The leaves of Stevia are 200-300 times sweeter than regular sugar. Stevia doesn’t raise blood glucose levels, making it a safe choice for people with diabetes and those managing their weight. It also supports dental health and even offers antioxidant properties. 

On the other hand, Sugar is made of glucose, galactose, and fructose, which combine to form a complex sugar. It is a high-calorie, high-glycemic sweetener that causes blood sugar spikes and weight gain. In short, sugar satisfies the sweet tooth at a cost, while Stevia sweetens without the side effects.

Let’s discuss some nutritional benefits of Stevia & Sugar

Low-Calorie Diet

Stevia is one of the best natural sweeteners with zero calories. It offers a sweetener that does not add carbohydrates, calories, or artificial ingredients. While one teaspoon of Sugar contains approximately 16  to 18 calories, refined or powdered Sugar has double the calories, approximately 32.

Ideal for Weight Management

Stevia has a low glycemic index, which can indirectly contribute to weight management and reduce the calories you intake from different sweet foods and beverages. Additionally, some studies suggest that stevia reduces hunger and cravings. While Sugar intake causes weight gain, being overweight increases the risk of health-related problems such as heart disease, cancer, and diabetes.

Control Blood Sugar Level

Stevia is one of the ideal choices for diabetes to control their blood sugar level by providing a calorie-free sugar alternative. In contrast, Sugar contains glucose and sucrose, which are rapidly absorbed by our metabolism and spike the blood sugar level. 

What is the best sweetener for diabetics?

Numerous sweeteners, including brown sugar, maple syrup, monk fruit, and coconut palm sugar, are available on the market. However, all these contain calories and spike blood sugar levels, which is not suitable for a diabetic person. Stevia is one of the best natural sweeteners for people with diabetes. It does not impact blood sugar levels because it is calorie-free and is considered the safest sweetener for people with diabetes.

Are there any health benefits of stevia?

Yes, stevia has numerous health benefits. It does not spike blood glucose levels, making it one of the best options for people with diabetes, gym-goers, diet-conscious individuals, and those who are health-conscious.

How does sugar affect your overall health?

Consuming too much Sugar disrupts the body's natural process. This leads to a rapid decline in blood glucose levels, forcing the pancreas to release a large amount of insulin. Over time, this can lead to insulin resistance, a key factor in the development of type 2 diabetes. Other cons of sugar on the human body are

• Increase the risk of anxiety and depression
• Increase calorie intake with no nutritional benefits
• Generate free radicals, which leads to cell damage
• Damaging collagen and elastin
• Quick Energy boost and drop 
• Triggers a hormonal imbalance

Are sugary drinks and food bad during summer?

Yes, Sugary drinks and food can be problematic during every season, especially in summer. They have a severe impact on metabolism, hydration, and overall health. 

What are the problems with sugary drinks & foods?

The primary issue with sugary drinks and foods is that they provide an instant energy boost, but this is quickly followed by a sharp crash, leaving you feeling fatigued, unfocused, and craving more sugar to recover. Additionally, it hurts overall health.

The Science Behind Stiva: Is it really Safe?

Stevia comes from a natural substance called steviol glycosides, which are 200-300 times sweeter than table sugar. The Process of making Stiva begins by harvesting and drying the leaves. After drying, remove any plant residue, color, and bitter compounds. This process results in highly purified white powder. The final product is free from any harmful substances and 100% natural. That’s why Stiva Natural Stevia Sweetener is safe to consume.

Why It Doesn’t Spike Blood Sugar

Stevia doesn't affect blood glucose because:

• It doesn't break down into glucose
• It doesn’t stimulate insulin release
• It’s metabolized independently of the pathways that sugar uses

Backed by Research and Safety Standards

Stevia has been studied extensively and is considered safe by global health authorities, including:

• The FDA Generally Recognized Stiva as Safe
• Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan (DRAP) 
• The World Health Organization (WHO)

What are the benefits and risks of using stevia as a sugar substitute? 

Stevia offers numerous advantages, including being a zero-calorie sweetener, making it ideal for weight management, gym-goers, diet-conscious individuals, and those with diabetes. However, stevia is not as risky as a sugar substitute when consumed moderately. But people with plant allergies should avoid using stevia. 

Choosing the correct type of stevia sweetener for summer

For summer drinks and beverages, consider a high-quality sweetener that is free from artificial additives, manufactured by a reputable company, and made from 100% natural ingredients. But how did you find that? 

Best Stevia Brand in Pakistan

Shaigan Healthcare Stiva Sweetener is recognized as one of the leading stevia brands in Pakistan. The Shaigan’s Stiva sweetener stands out due to these reasons.

• Zero Calorie Sweetener
• No Artificial Additives
• Approved by FDA and DRAP
• Ideal for diabetics, gym-goers, and health-conscious
• Available in two different forms (Powder and tablets)

Why is Stiva ideal for summer?

Stiva is ideal for summer as temperatures rise, people often need drinks, desserts, and snacks that are usually loaded with hidden sugar. However, Stiva offers a guilt-free way to enjoy these seasonal treats. Additionally, Stiva is free from artificial additives and calories, and is the healthiest choice for everyone. 

FAQ’s

What is the healthiest alternative to sugar?

Shaigan’s Stiva Natural sweetener is considered one of the healthiest sugar substitutes. Additionally, this sweetener is free from artificial additives, including aspartame, Dextrose, Sucralose, and Maltodextrin.

Who should not use stevia?

For individuals with plant allergies, stevia is not the safest option because it is derived from a plant.

Is stevia safe in hot drinks?

Yes, Stevia is the safest and healthiest choice for hot drinks, such as coffee and tea, as well as baking. 

Is stevia generally recognized as safe?

 Yes, Stevia is generally recognized as Safe by the FDA & DRAP as it meets international safety standards and is approved by major health organizations.

What happens when you replace sugar with stevia?

When you replace sugar with Stiva, your calorie intake is reduced, which helps with weight management, diabetes, and may also help reduce cravings over time. Additionally, replacing sugar with Stevia supports better metabolic and dental health.

What is the best sweetener for diabetics?

Stevia is one of the best choices for individuals with diabetes due to its zero glycemic impact. It doesn’t raise blood sugar or insulin levels, making it a safe and natural option that doesn't sacrifice sweet cravings.