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~Aspartame Versus Stevia~

Aspartame

Aspartame was approved in the early 1980's under the brand name Equal, also known as Nutrasweet. It is a combination of the amino acids phenylalanine, aspartic acids and methanol, or wood alcohol. Too much of these components has been linked to brain damage in the fetus. Persons with PKU (phenylkelonuria), as well as pregnant women, and children under the age of seven, must avoid aspartame, and foods containing this ingredient.

Stevia

Stevia is found in the chrysanthemum family and grows in parts of South America as a shrub. It's been used by Native Indians in Paraguay and Brazil for centuries. Studies show that this plant is completely non-toxic. Although it is marketed in the United States as a food supplement, its primary use is a natural sugar substitute. Stevia has numerous phyto-nutrients in its raw state. The extract is more refined with fewer nutrients, but the overall conclusion is that Stevia is safe, effective and nutritional. Since refined sugars have no nutritional value, Stevia can be used instead. It is at least 10 to 15 times sweeter than ordinary table sugar, so only a small amount is needed. The extract is much more potent than in the raw state and can be at least 200 times sweeter than sugar, and should be used sparingly. It can be added to beverages as well as used in cooking and baking. And, because it does not raise blood sugar levels, may be used safely by diabetics. Although there have been no adverse affects, always check with your health care professional before consuming any product, or if you have any medical problems.

About the Author

Patricia is a Nutrition Consultant in the Los Angeles area, and has been writing articles on herbs, nutritition and alternative health for over ten years. Her articles are featured in several publications.