Mention "stevia" to someone and you may well get a quizzical look, as if you're failing to grasp some unknown language.

 

Stevia is a naturally-sourced sugar substitute with no calories, no carbohydrates, and does not raise blood sugar levels. Stevia is a natural sweetener that is 300 times as sweet as sugar. The plant is also considered a healing herb that can ease digestion and help balance one's sugar level.

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There was a 400% increase globally in new stevia-based products between 2008 and 2012, with a 158 per cent rise from 2011-2012, according to Mintel.The big deal about stevia is that it has a natural source and has zero calories.

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Coca-Cola dared to alter the recipe for Sprite in the UK, re-launching a new stevia-inspired version and claiming a 30% calorie reduction.Even sugar giant Tate & Lyle has responded with a sugar-stevia hybrid. You can now find stevia-based sweeteners in products as varied as yoghurts, chocolates, and even beer.

 

Refined sugar is now regularly linked in the media to obesity. And obesity is now widely described as an epidemic.More than 60% of adults in the world are overweight or obese, with associated health problems.

 

Stevia also has the potential to help with weight management, dental health, and diabetes