Epoch HealthStevia Has Potential Side Effects on Gut Microbiome and Brain, but Experts Explain Bottom Line

Exploring Stevia’s Multifaceted Impact: From Gut Microbiome to Brain Function

This article looks at all of the comprehensive research surrounding Stevia, a popular sugar substitute, highlighting its potential effects on various aspects of human health. Although Stevia is lauded for its calorie-free sweetness and benefits in reducing blood pressure and blood sugar, emerging studies suggest it may influence the gut microbiome, liver function, and even the brain and nervous system. Physicians should be aware of these findings to better guide patients in making informed dietary choices.

Key Points:

• Stevia is metabolized and excreted without accumulating in the body, but individuals with liver issues may need to exercise caution due to its metabolic pathway involving the liver.
• Research indicates potential impacts of Stevia on the gut microbiome, including altering bacterial composition and potentially disrupting microbial communication, though these findings are primarily from in vitro and animal studies.
• Stevia-based products often contain sugar alcohols like erythritol, which can cause gastrointestinal discomfort, and recent studies suggest a possible link between erythritol and adverse cardiovascular events.
• Animal and in vitro studies suggest that Stevia could influence the brain’s dopamine reward system and memory functions, with some evidence linking it to restless legs syndrome.
• Steviol glycosides may act as endocrine disruptors, with some studies showing effects on sperm cell viability and immune cell counts in mice.
• Despite these concerns, extensive research, including more than 200 studies, supports the safety of Stevia, with no significant adverse effects reported in long-term human consumption.
• The environmental impact of Stevia is considered minimal, with its metabolites not accumulating in the environment, contrasting with some other artificial sweeteners.

The global sugar substitutes market is projected to reach $20.6 billion by 2025, indicating a growing shift towards alternative sweeteners.

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