An array of Stevia gumdrops on a white background.

Stevia is a zero-calorie sweetener used in hundreds, if not thousands, of consumer food products in the US and other parts of the world. Stevia has several advantages over refined sugar and is a common substitute for cane sugar in foods and drinks. Still, it has a checkered past, including a brief ban in the European Union. 

What Is Stevia?

Stevia is a natural sweetener derived from the leaves of the Stevia rebaundiana plant. It’s commonly used as a sugar substitute in low-calorie or reduced-sugar foods and drinks. The leaves are dried and extracted into a concentrated sweetener before being processed with other compounds and used as a zero-calorie sweetener. 

The Benefits of Stevia

Stevia is non-nutritive, containing no macronutrients, calories, minerals, or vitamins. It is also non-cariogenic, which means it won’t cause cavities. Some Stevia studies show it may assist with weight management, too. 

Potential Health Risks

Stevia’s sweetness impacts the palate differently, with some finding it bitter. It may also cause digestive issues in some individuals, although this is more common in those with sensitive digestive systems or a related diagnosis, such as irritable bowel syndrome. Some studies also show an increased risk of heart attack and stroke

Does Stevia Cause Cancer?

Contemporary research shows no link between Stevia and cancer. However, the product had a rocky start and retains a less-than-stellar reputation among consumers. 

Early studies on Stevia and cancer found a link between Stevia intake and cancer diagnosis. These early studies led to a ban on Stevia in the European Union in 1999. Further research overturned the ban in 2011, and the product has maintained its generally recognized as safe (GRAS) distinction from the US Food and Drug Administration since 2008. As recently as 2023, the National Cancer Institute reiterated a negative causal relationship between several artificial sweeteners, plus bio-based but processed Stevia, and cancer. 

Read more: No-Cost Cancer Screenings Under Threat

What Is Healthier: Stevia or Honey?

Of course, many of us prefer a safe and truly natural sweetener option. This has pushed consumers to compare truly natural products, like honey, with a non-nutritive alternative, like Stevia. Honey has small amounts of vitamins and minerals but has more calories and more sugar content than traditional table sugar. Stevia offers no nutritional value and no sugar; for individuals with diabetes, weight management issues, or those looking to reduce the risk of cavities, Stevia may actually be the better option. It’s important to remember the context; however, Stevia in processed food products is not necessarily a safe or healthy choice. 

Talk to a healthcare professional to determine the best nutrition plan based on your needs. 

Prevention Is the Future

At Less Cancer, we’ve spent the past decade putting prevention first. Through advocacy, educational programming, and strong community partnerships, we’re working to increase healthcare access and health outcomes for millions of Americans. You can help; make a donation today to keep our cause growing!