Stevia (botanical name Stevia rebaudiana) is a plant species native to Brazil and Paraguay. It contains a substance called stevioside or steviol, which has many times the sweetening power of sugar.

The sweet taste of its leaves has been known for centuries to the indigenous people of South America, who use it as a natural sweetener.

In recent years, the stevia plant and the sweeteners derived from its leaves have attracted attention due to the increased demand for low-sugar and low-calorie foods.

• The leaves of the plant and the sweeteners derived from it are many times sweeter than sugar.
• They do not provide energy (calories) and do not contain carbohydrates.
• Stevia sweeteners provide zero calories and can be an option for people who want to reduce or maintain their weight.
• They can contribute to weight control by reducing the caloric content of the diet.
• They maintain pleasure in the diet, helping people stay committed to their diet.
• They do not affect blood glucose, so they can be consumed by people with diabetes.

A very important parameter for the management of diabetes and its complications.