Stevia

Stevia, known as a non-caloric sweetener used in foods, can also be used for weight loss, high blood pressure, and diabetes.

Stevia Overview

Reviewed: July 30, 2014
Updated: 

Stevia is a plant. Stevia leaves are used in medicine.

Stevia is used most often for weight loss, high blood pressure, and diabetes. It is also used as a non-caloric sweetener in foods.

Stevia is thought to work in several different ways, but more evidence is needed to determine how stevia produces its effects.

Common side effects of stevia include nausea and abdominal fullness.

Stevia is used most often for weight loss, high blood pressure, and diabetes.

Stevia has not been proven effective for all of the uses listed above. Stevia may be used for other conditions. Ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

Side Effects of Stevia

Common side effects of stevia include the following:

  • nausea
  • abdominal fullness 

This is not a complete list of stevia side effects. Ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

Tell your doctor if you have any side effect that bothers you or that does not go away.

Stevia Interactions

No drug interactions have been determined by the manufacturer. However, you should tell your doctor about all the medicines you take including prescription and non-prescription medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements. Not all interactions are known or reported and new drug interactions are continually being reported.

Stevia Precautions

Special precautions & warnings:

 

  • Talk to your doctor or pharmacist before using stevia if you are pregnant, breast-feeding, or trying to become pregnant.