Sweet News: Study Finds Stevia Full of Antioxidants
Posted Oct 16 2008 7:58pm
The news about stevia keeps getting sweeter. This zero-calorie, healthy sweetener may be destined to become the next superfood now that a new study has found that the leaf extract it's made from contains an abundance of antioxidant polyphenols.
The research, published in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, says that these antioxidants may protect against DNA damage and cancer.
Currently, stevia is mostly found in health food stores because the Federal Drug Administration (FDA) considers it a supplement. However, the FDA is expected to be petitioned in the near future to approve its use in food and beverages.
Stevia, which is 300 times sweeter than sugar, is also known for it's licorice-like aftertaste. Fortunately, recent developments in processing have helped eliminate the unpleasant flavor.
The research, published in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, says that these antioxidants may protect against DNA damage and cancer.
Currently, stevia is mostly found in health food stores because the Federal Drug Administration (FDA) considers it a supplement. However, the FDA is expected to be petitioned in the near future to approve its use in food and beverages.
Stevia, which is 300 times sweeter than sugar, is also known for it's licorice-like aftertaste. Fortunately, recent developments in processing have helped eliminate the unpleasant flavor.
Sources:
Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry
Nutraingredients.com
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