Stevia leaves come from the Stevia rebaudiana plant and are a natural, zero-calorie sugar substitute
Key Facts
• Sweetness: The leaves contain compounds called steviol glycosides (such as stevioside and rebaudioside A) that are 200 to 400 times sweeter than table sugar.
• Zero Calories: They have no carbohydrates, calories, or artificial ingredients, making them a popular alternative for people managing diabetes or cutting calories.
• Origin: The plant is native to Paraguay and Brazil, though it is now grown globally.
• Usage: You can use them fresh, dried, steeped in tea or beverages, or ground into a powder. Store-bought products (like Truvia or SweetLeaf) are usually refined extracts or blended with other ingredients like erythritol.