Guest guest Posted October 25, 2006 Report Share Posted October 25, 2006 I printed this off the internet about 5 years or more ago. It did not say where it came from so I do not know the source. Like anything you read or hear, don't swallow it hook, line and sinker. Be sure and research and align it with other data and those things you have personally tried and know to be true. The Stevia Story Stevia in one of the most health restoring plants on the earth. What whole leaf Stevia does both inside the body and on the skin is incredible. Native to Paraguay, it is a small green plant bearing leaves which have a delicious and refreshing taste that can be 30 times sweeter than sugar. Studies have found the leaf to contain proteins, high levels of chromium, fibers, carbohydrates, iron, phosphorus, calcium, potassium, sodium, magnesium, zinc, rutin, true vitamin A, vitamin C and an oil which contains 53 other constituents. Stevia is being produced in China as well as Paraguay and Brazil. (I also grow it on our patio here at the Rabbit Hole in Clearwater, Florida) Medicinal: Scientific reasearch has indicated that Stevia effectively regulates blood sugar and brings it toward a normal balance. It is sold in South America as an aid to people with diabetes and hypoglycemia. An important benefit for hypoglycemics is Stevia's tonic action which enhances increased energy levels and mental activity. Studies indicate that Stevia tends to lower elevated blood pressure but does not seem to affect normal blood pressure. It also inhibits the growth and reproduction of some bacteria that cause tooth decay and gum disease. This may help explain why users of Stevia report lower incidence of cold and flue and why it has such exceptional qualities when used as a mouthwash or added to toothpaste. Stevia is an exceptional aid in weight loss and weight management because it contains 0 calories and reduces cravings for sweets and fatty foods. Hunger sensations are lessened when used 20 minutes before a meal. Research indicates Stevia may actually reset the hunger mechanism in people where the pathways between the hypothalamus and the stomach has become obstructed. Stevia would help people to feel satiated sooner, helping them eat less. Other benefits include improved digestion and gastrointestinal function, soothe upset stomach, quicker recovery from minor illness. User have also reported that drinking Stevia tea or Stevia enhanced teas helped to reduce their desire for tobacco and alcohol cravings. A study conducted at the Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Aarhus University Hospital, Denmark found that stevioside stimulates insulin secretion from mouse pancreatic islets in the presence of glucose. (These islets are the ones that produce the insulin that the body needs. When they shut down and the body is not producing this insulin, diabetics take "insulin tablets" and then graduate to "insulin shots" when the condition worsens.) The researchers state, "Stevioside stimulates insulin secretion via a direct action on pancreatic beta cells. The results indicate that the compounds may have a potential role as an anit-hyperglycemic agent in the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus." Ray Sahelian, M.D., co-author with Donna Gates of the Stevia Cookbook says, "Stevia is a wonderful alternative to sugar and artificial sweeteners for those who have diabetes. This study gives us one more reason to recommend diabetics take advantage of this safe, non-caloric herbal swetener." So, if Stevia is so wonderful, why was it BANNED in the USA? Part 2 to follow tomorrow. Valorie Valorie Shillington727-447-5282ValorieHttp://www.OrganicSolutionsStore.com Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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