Since stevia is a plant-based extract, there's some possibility it can cause allergies or irritation in certain people. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) considers stevia leaf extract safe for consumption, and it is unlikely to cause side effects in most people. Sucralose. They add calories to your diet. Added sugar can play a part in weight gain. https://www.fda.gov/food/food-additives-petitions/high-intensity-sweeteners. Drug Chem Toxicol 1998;21:207-22. Brusick DJ. Potential side effects linked to stevia consumption include: Stevia is considered a diuretic, meaning that it increases the speed at which the body expels water and electrolytes from the body in urine. View abstract. View abstract. While adding a raw stevia leaf to a cup of tea now and then is unlikely to cause harm, you shouldnt use it if youre pregnant. The same amount of cola sweetened with the artificial sweetener aspartame has none. Planta Med 2005;71(2):108-113. You should always speak with your doctor or health care professional before you start, stop, or change any prescribed part of your health care plan or treatment and to determine what course of therapy is right for you. EFSA J 2020;18(4):e06106. Int J Obes (Lond). Select a condition to view a list of vitamins. Daily stevia consumption may stop or slow down metabolism and so, interrupt with the conversion process of food into energy. Reb-A is about 200 times sweeter than table sugar. Never delay or disregard seeking professional medical advice from your doctor or other qualified health care provider because of something you have read on WebMD. Metabolism 2004;53:101-7. Yang, P. S., Lee, J. J., Tsao, C. W., Wu, H. T., and Cheng, J. T. Stimulatory effect of stevioside on peripheral mu opioid receptors in animals. There are 11 steviol glycosides in the stevia leaf, responsible for giving stevia its sweet flavor. Biol Pharm Bull. Lohner S, Toews I, Meerpohl JJ. Nettleton, J.E., et al. Because the kidney is responsible for filtering and creating urine, researchers initially thought that long-term consumption of stevia could damage the organ. In this case, Reb-A has been evaluated for safety during pregnancy and otherwise. Tey SL, Salleh NB, Henry J, Forde CG. Our website is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. You might try to stay away from table sugar by using less processed sweeteners such as honey and molasses. Bactericidal activity of a fermented hot-water extract from Stevia rebaudiana Bertoni towards enterohemorrhagic Escherichia coli O157:H7 and other food-borne pathogenic bacteria. However, whole stevia leaf is not approved by the FDA and is not generally recognized as safe for consumption by anyone, especially pregnant people. Routine consumption of these sweeteners may also lead to a higher risk of cardiometabolic disease. Monitor your blood sugar closely. Evaluation of the genotoxicity of stevioside and steviol using six in vitro and one in vivo mutagenicity assays. ", Tufts Medical Center Community Care: "Stevia". Learn more. Lailerd N, Saengsirisuwan V, Sloniger JA, et al. Low-dose stevia (Rebaudioside A) consumption perturbs gut microbiota and the mesolimbic dopamine reward system. Sucralose can be especially carcinogenic (cancer-causing) when heated, so stevia may be a healthier option for baking. 2019; doi:10.1542/peds.2019-2765. Stevia is a non-nutritive or zero-calorie sweetener made of steviol glycosides. Whole foods, such as fruits and vegetables, usually have the best mix of nutrients for the body. DOI: Azad MB, et al. Food Chem Toxicol 2008;46 Suppl 7:S75-82. By Rebecca Valdez, MS, RDN J Med Assoc Thai. Despite this, stevia contains no calories or carbohydrates, compared to sugar which has 15 calories and 4 grams of carbohydrates per teaspoon. Specific immunomodulatory and secretory activities of stevioside and steviol in intestinal cells. View abstract. But because stevia is noncaloric, it's often used as a sugar substitute, especially for people hoping to manage diabetes or obesity. Monk fruit and stevia are the latest buzz-worthy candidates for your morning cup of coffee or tea. Phytochemistry 2003;64:913-21. A single copy of these materials may be reprinted for noncommercial personal use only. According to the Mayo Clinic, signs of allergic reaction may include: Tingling or itching in the mouth. Side effects. Some positive and others negative. View abstract. Theres a big difference between the stevia you buy at the grocery store and the stevia you may grow at home. Stevia also has blood pressure and blood glucoselowering effects, so people on certain medications or conditions should speak with their healthcare provider before using stevia for a prolonged period. mood swings Read more The 5 Best (and Worst) Sweeteners You Can Eat - Cleveland Clinic Perrier J, Mihalov J, Carlson S. FDA regulatory approach to steviol glycosides. It could potentially help lower their blood sugar levels without excess insulin. Stevia leaf extracts side effects. But if you use it throughout the day, the carbs add up. Theres concern that raw stevia herb may harm your kidneys, reproductive system, and cardiovascular system. For professional medical information on natural medicines, see Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database Professional Version. Some stevia side effects include digestive or stomach issues, allergies, an increased risk of weight gain and potential endocrine disruption. Some sugar substitutes also are sold on their own in packets or other containers. Since then, research has shown that those findings don't apply to people. People thought that artificial sweeteners wouldn't have the same effect. It may also damage. While stevia is generally considered safe to be used in food and drink, some extracts of the plant have not been approved by the Food & Drug Administration (FDA). A pilot study of repeated exposures in some normotensive and hypotensive individuals and in Type 1 and Type 2 diabetics. Mayo Clinic. Geuns, J. M., Buyse, J., Vankeirsbilck, A., and Temme, E. H. Metabolism of stevioside by healthy subjects. Gregersen S, Jeppesen PB, Holst JJ, Hermansen K. Antihyperglycemic effects of stevioside in type 2 diabetic subjects. Accessed Nov. 14, 2022. (2015). A 2017 review exploring health-outcomes and complications linked to zero-calorie sweeteners concluded that not enough studies had been done to make a judgment about stevias overall safety. 2017;16(1):55. doi:10.1186/s12937-017-0278-x. Sucralose is derived from sugar in a chemical process and is 400700 times sweeter than sugar. This article looks at its benefits, potential risks, sources, and the research behind its health, New research shows that an enzyme produced by the liver causes inflammation in the abdominal fat, raising the risk of insulin resistance and diabetes, The natural, no-calorie sweetener stevia may help people with diabetes to control their blood sugar levels. The side effects of stevia include gastrointestinal issues, extremely low blood sugar levels, endocrine disruption, sore muscles, and numbness. Stevia may also work as a better option than sugar for people wanting to maintain good oral health. Ferri LA, Alves-Do-Prado W, Yamada SS, et al. We currently have no information for STEVIA overview. Stevia might have an effect like a water pill or "diuretic." 2013;38:423-462. People with chronic low blood pressure should speak to a doctor about prolonged stevia use. What's the difference between juicing and blending? Last medically reviewed on December 3, 2018. Effects of stevioside on glucose transport activity in insulin-sensitive and insulin-resistant rat skeletal muscle. 2020;10(1). From wellcurve.in. 1984;47(3):439-444. Health agencies have clarified that sugar substitutes do not cause serious health problems. In general, it is safest to take in small amounts of sugar substitutes. Melis MS, Sainati AR. shakiness skin blisters slurred speech sore throat sores, ulcers, or white spots on the lips or in the mouth stomach cramps, tenderness, or pain sweating swelling of the eyes, face, or inside of the nose swelling or inflammation of the mouth swollen or painful glands trouble breathing unusual bleeding or bruising watery or bloody diarrhea Lemus-Mondaca R, Vega-Galvez A, Zura-Bravo L, Ah-Hen K. Stevia rebaudiana Bertoni, source of a high-potency natural sweetener: A comprehensive review on the biochemical, nutritional and functional aspects. Effects of stevia, aspartame, and sucrose on food intake, satiety, and postprandial glucose and insulin levels. Nat.Prod Commun 2011;6(2):175-178. View abstract. Res Commun Chem Pathol Pharmacol 1994;84:111-8. View abstract. Remember that stevia is much sweeter than table sugar, so you wont need to use as much. View abstract. For adults and children with overweight or obesity, sugar substitutes also might help manage weight in the short term. stevia leaves molasses It is still important to limit intake of natural sweeteners, as they have the same health risks as excess refined sugar, such as weight gain, diabetes, and tooth decay.. 4. 1997;80 Suppl 1:S121-S128. High-intensity sweeteners. Stevia sweeteners don't have calories and are a good choice for people trying to lose weight. Effect of stevia extract intervention on lipid profile. The use of nonnutritive sweeteners in children. View abstract. This content does not have an English version. "Mayo," "Mayo Clinic," "MayoClinic.org," "Mayo Clinic Healthy Living," and the triple-shield Mayo Clinic logo are trademarks of Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research. Farid A, Hesham M, El-Dewak M, Amin A. Mayo Clinic on Incontinence - Mayo Clinic Press, NEW The Essential Diabetes Book - Mayo Clinic Press, NEW Ending the Opioid Crisis - Mayo Clinic Press, FREE Mayo Clinic Diet Assessment - Mayo Clinic Press, Mayo Clinic Health Letter - FREE book - Mayo Clinic Press. https://professional.diabetes.org/sites/professional.diabetes.org/files/pel/source/sugar_substitutes.pdf. Stevia use has been shown to help limit and reduce diarrhea and the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Profiles Drug Subst Excip Relat Methodol. Heuberger R. Overview of non-nutritive sweeteners. Stevia side effects. Int J Dent. 10-22-2003;51(22):6618-6622. However, research supporting the safe use of less refined stevia compounds is still lacking. Uncontrolled Blood Sugar: How Dangerous Is It. (2013). Toskulkao C, Sutheerawatananon M, Wanichanon C, et al. However, one noted limitation in this study is that it took place in a laboratory setting, rather than in a real-life situation in a persons natural environment. But limit or cut out sugar substitutes: Dietary guidelines for Americans say adults shouldn't give sugar substitutes to children under 2 years old. other information we have about you. Potential complications with the overuse of stevia products during pregnancy include: Researchers still do not understand the full range of risks associated with stevia. However, some of the common counterfeit ingredients found in stevia mixtures and formulas are linked to serious complications and may cause birth abnormalities. Jeppesen, P. B., Gregersen, S., Rolfsen, S. E., Jepsen, M., Colombo, M., Agger, A., Xiao, J., Kruhoffer, M., Orntoft, T., and Hermansen, K. Antihyperglycemic and blood pressure-reducing effects of stevioside in the diabetic Goto-Kakizaki rat. Though they're rare, stevia's side effects can include gastrointestinal symptoms, decreased blood pressure and blood sugar, and potential impacts on the liver. U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Effects of chronic administration of Stevia rebaudiana on fertility in rats. And it may also interact with drugs like lithium. Effects of Stevia Rebaudiana on Glucose Homeostasis, Blood Pressure and Inflammation: A Critical Review of Past and Current Research Evidence. However, since stevia can have blood pressure and blood glucoselowering effects, as well as diuretic effects, those taking certain medications or who have certain health conditions should talk with their healthcare provider before consuming significant quantities of Stevia. This is because stevia can lower blood sugars and blood pressure, and act as a diuretic. As a type of steroid, steviol glycosides can interfere with hormones controlled by the endocrine system. Anton SD, et al. The FDA and food safety agencies in other countries also suggest how much of a sugar substitute you can safely have each day. Our website services, content, and products are for informational purposes only. Food Chem Toxicol 2008;46 Suppl 7:S83-91. If youre sensitive to sugar alcohols, choose a brand that doesnt contain erythritol. While that high level of consumption is not generally recommended, it demonstrates the vast volume of stevia you would need to consume for it to be considered unsafe. (2013). Scientific Reports. However, as the research on stevia itself is limited, it's safe to say that incorporating this natural sweetener into your diet as a sugar substitute will likely yield greater benefits than risks. This copyrighted material is provided by Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database Consumer Version. Braz J Med Biol Res 1996;29:669-75. Artificial sweeteners and cancer. https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/weight-loss/basics/weightloss-basics/hlv-20049483. 2. Poor digestion of sugar alcohol may cause abdominal pain, gas, bloating and diarrhea. include protected health information. Additional information about high-intensity sweeteners permitted for use in food in the United States. According to a 2012 study, a glycoside called stevioside found in stevia plants helps boost cancer cell death in a human breast cancer line. One 2010 study of 19 healthy, lean participants and 12 obese participants found that stevia significantly lowered insulin and glucose levels. Pepino, M. Y. It is many times sweeter than sugar yet has virtually zero calories. Consuming too much stevia may lead to nausea, bloating, dizziness, muscle pain, and numbness. Don't get tricked by these 3 heart-health myths, Get to know the new Nutrition Facts label, Nutrition rules that will fuel your workout, Nuts and your heart: Eating nuts for heart health. J Agric.Food Chem 2-8-2006;54(3):785-789. Li, J., Jiang, H., and Shi, R. A new acylated quercetin glycoside from the leaves of Stevia rebaudiana Bertoni. The hemodynamic effects of rebaudioside A in healthy adults with normal and low-normal blood pressure. They are going to affect everyone differently. Food Chem. Nutrition Journal. Metabolism 2004;53:73-6. 8 Ways Food Companies Hide the Sugar Content of Foods, 11 Simple Ways to Focus on Whole Foods Instead of Clean Eating, Berberine A Powerful Supplement With Many Benefits, The Top Health Benefits of Prunes and Prune Juice, What to Know About Andrographis Supplements: Potential Benefits and Uses, Kerry Boyle D.Ac., M.S., L.Ac., Dipl. If youre trying to lose weight, this aspect may be appealing. In addition to some of stevia's touted benefits as a sugar substitute in helping people lose weight or improve diabetes management, it has been linked to a number of other potential health benefits, though these are still being explored further. 2017;41(3):450-457. It is derived from the leaves of theStevia rebaudianaplant and has been used for centuries in South America. However, to date, research is inconclusive. Mayo Clinic. Stevia in its natural form hasnt. Stevia is not known to cause inflammation. Cardiovascular health: Insomnia linked to greater risk of heart attack. If you're living with a rare genetic disease called phenylketonuria. Foods and drinks with aspartame can lead to serious health problems. In fact, many stevia products have very little stevia in them at all. Low-Dose Stevia (Rebaudioside A) Consumption Perturbs Gut Microbiota and the Mesolimbic Dopamine Reward System. Cholesterol: Top foods to improve your numbers. View abstract. Wasuntarawat C, Temcharoen P, Toskulkao C, et al. It's possible this is because people who consume a lot of sweet food or drinks in general even those with NSSs experience a greater craving for sweeter and unhealthy foods. All rights reserved. View abstract. Two minor diterpene glycosides from the leaves of Stevia rebaudiana. U.S. Food and Drug Administration, December 17, 2008. Br J Clin Pharmacol 2000;50:215-20. View abstract. Chaturvedula, V. S., Rhea, J., Milanowski, D., Mocek, U., and Prakash, I. These agencies check ingredients, such as sugar substitutes, before foods or drinks that contain them can go on sale. Chen, T. H., Chen, S. C., Chan, P., Chu, Y. L., Yang, H. Y., and Cheng, J. T. Mechanism of the hypoglycemic effect of stevioside, a glycoside of Stevia rebaudiana. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) doesnt object to the term natural flavors if the related ingredients have no added colors, artificial flavors, or synthetics. Melissa Nieves, LND, RD, is a registered dietitian working for a private practice. View abstract. Stevia is available in a few different forms. Your lithium dose might need to be changed. The amount of sugar alcohol that causes these symptoms varies from person to person. Ive heard its good for weight control. Can whole-grain foods lower blood pressure? There's concern that raw stevia herb may harm your kidneys, reproductive system, and cardiovascular system. View abstract. Dextrose is glucose, and maltodextrin is a starch. Many focus on how the gut and brain communicate. All rights reserved. If you replace added sugar with sugar substitutes, it could lower your risk of getting tooth decay and cavities. Stevia contains chemicals that are 200-300 times sweeter than sucrose sugar. Taking stevia might decrease how well the body gets rid of lithium. The product is said to be a significant obstruction in the body's metabolism process. Stevia can cause gastrointestinal side effects in some people, including gas, nausea, and bloating. Information from this source is evidence-based and objective, and without commercial influence. View abstract. Thank you, {{form.email}}, for signing up. The most notable of these ingredients is saccharin. CFSAN/Office of Food Additive Safety. A double-blind placebo-controlled study of the effectiveness and tolerability of oral stevioside in human hypertension. Hives. D'Agostino, M., De Simone, F., Pizza, C., and Aquino, R. [Sterols in Stevia rebaudiana Bertoni]. These problems may be less likely to occur if blood pressure is controlled. 1. Effects of the Daily Consumption of Stevia on Glucose Homeostasis, Body Weight, and Energy Intake: A Randomised Open-Label 12-Week Trial in Healthy Adults. The study also found that stevia may have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. J.Agric.Food Chem. For some people, it may raise blood sugar and insulin levels. Other brands arent made specifically for baking, so youll need to use less. Office of Regulatory Affairs. They taste sweet like sugar but have fewer calories. All rights reserved. Effect of calcium and verapamil on renal function of rats during treatment with stevioside. Using sugar substitutes might make your symptoms flare up. That's because sugar substitutes often are low in calories or have no calories. While some studies have shown stevia can be used to manage diabetes and weight loss, a study published in July 2017 in Canadian Medical Association Journal showed that consuming nonnutritive sweeteners frequently may actually result in an increase in body mass index (BMI). DOI: Has stevia been approved by FDA to be used as a sweetener? Nonnutritive sweeteners and cardiometabolic health: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials and prospective cohort studies. Influence of stevioside on hepatic glycogen levels in fasted rats. Does soy really affect breast cancer risk? 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However, the ADI for steviol is 4 milligrams (mg) per kilogram body weight per day. Low Blood Pressure. Some people enjoy it, but its a turn-off for others. Accessed Nov. 11, 2022. Effect of stevia aqueous extract on the antidiabetic activity of saxagliptin in diabetic rats. Stevia During Pregnancy and Breastfeeding. In this article, we look at the possible risks and side effects associated with this natural sweetener. US Food and Drug Administration. In general, it is safest to take in small amounts of sugar substitutes. It has many health benefits, and may help protect against several chronic conditions. View abstract. https://www.fda.gov/ora/fiars/ora_import_ia4506.html (Accessed 21 April 2004). A 2016 study found that human sperm cells exposed to steviol experienced an increase in progesterone production. The hidden hazardous effects of Stevia and sucralose consumption in male and female albino mice in comparison to sucrose. The FDA considers stevia and its compounds steviol glycosides safe, deeming it "generally recognized as safe" (GRAS). Review/update the Effects of stevioside and steviol on intestinal glucose absorption in hamsters. Both have pros and cons, but is one better for you? Rios-Leyvraz M, et al. Stevia's taste has a slower onset and longer duration than that of sugar, and at high concentrations some of its extracts may have an aftertaste described as licorice -like or bitter. Accessed Nov. 11, 2022. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our. Paul S, et al. Stevia may cause mild digestive issues like nausea, according to Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center. View abstract. Allergic reactions. View abstract. privacy practices. In contrast, one teaspoon of sugar has about 16 calories. Accessed Nov. 11, 2022. Int J Occup Environ Health. Stevia is used as an artificial sweetener in many foods and beverages, such as tea and juices, and is likely safe for most people. Avicenna J Phytomed. Braz J Med Biol Res 1986;19:771-4. For these reasons, it may be useful for people taking steps to control . This amounts to about 12 mg per kilograms (kg) of Stevia extract per day. One of the Stevia side effects is Hypoglycemia, also known as low blood sugar, can be caused due to the increased consumption of Stevia. Honey contains mostly sugar, as well as a mix of amino acids, vitamins, minerals, iron, zinc and antioxidants. And that can make drinking enough water a challenge. Journal of Applied Science Research 2010;6(7):883-887. Its unclear if occasional stevia use in lower amounts would have the same impact. To provide you with the most relevant and helpful information, and understand which The study notes that its compounds, stevioside and rebaudioside, are up to 200 times sweeter than sugar. These ingredients add small amounts of carbs and calories. Accessed Nov. 11, 2022. But be aware of how sugar substitutes affect your food and drink choices. Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition. Stevia might lower blood sugar levels. View abstract. It varies by a person's weight and the type of sugar substitute used. The Mayo Clinic reports that there are a few side effects associated with using stevia: Dizziness Muscle pains Numbness Nausea Gas Bloating These side effects are not serious and only last a short duration if at all. FoodData Central. Chaturvedula, V. S. and Prakash, I. 2020;5:142. It found that many stevia glycoside derivatives were toxic to specific leukemia, lung, stomach, and breast cancer cell lines. However, animal studies have linked sucralose to cancer and disruptions to the gut microbiome. Theres some evidence to suggest that stevia may help fight or prevent some types of cancer. Here are 12 benefits of ginkgo biloba. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our. EFSA Panel on Food Additives and Flavourings (FAF), Younes M, Aquilina G, et al. Mayo Clinic Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Mayo Clinic School of Continuous Professional Development, Mayo Clinic School of Graduate Medical Education, Available Health Products from Mayo Clinic Store, Book: Mayo Clinic Family Health Book, 5th Edition, Book: Mayo Clinic 5 Steps to Controlling High Blood Pressure, Newsletter: Mayo Clinic Health Letter Digital Edition, Autism spectrum disorder and digestive symptoms, Bad food habits at work? Rebecca Valdez is a registered dietitian nutritionist and nutrition communications consultant, passionate about food justice, equity, and sustainability. Effects of aspartame-, monk fruit-, stevia- and sucrose-sweetened beverages on postprandial glucose, insulin and energy intake. So, practice caution. However, the FDA has not approved stevia leaf and crude stevia extracts for use in food. Some people have allergic reactions to steviol glycosides that . The plant contains steviol glycosides, such as stevioside and rebaudioside, which are actually a lot sweeter than regular sugar. New research shows that artificial sweeteners may increase the risk of weight gain and, Medical News Today has strict sourcing guidelines and draws only from peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical journals and associations. sensation of spinning. Psychological Effects Stevia can also interact with certain medications, so it is important to discuss stevia with a doctor before consuming or purchasing the product. Taking stevia along with medications that lower blood pressure might cause blood pressure to go too low. High doses or heavy, long-term use of stevia may worsen common pregnancy symptoms by increasing the workload on organs such as the kidneys, bladder, and heart. Proc Natl Acad Sci USA 1985;82:2478-82. stevia taxes the adrenals: Another response to stevia that some experience is hypoglycemia. Sugar, particularly refined sugars, has been linked to countless health risks, including diabetes and heart disease. This site complies with the HONcode standard for trustworthy health information: verify here. But these also are forms of added sugar. World Health Organization. WebMD does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/phenylketonuria/symptoms-causes/syc-20376302. Sucralose administered in feed, beginning prenatally through lifespan, induces hematopoietic neoplasias in male swiss mice. J Nutr Sci Vitaminol (Tokyo) 1995;41:105-13. Studies using rat embryos have established that stevia did not affect pregnancy or fertility outcomes and was non-toxic to fetal tissues. Stevia sweeteners are broken down by bacteria in the large intestine, but gastrointestinal symptoms like bloating and diarrhea haven't been reported in studies. View abstract. Effect of Stevia rebaudiana on glucose tolerance in normal adult humans. Can diet help improve depression symptoms? GRN No. It also may raise your risk of serious health problems, such as diabetes and heart disease. The following are few of the asserted side effects or dangers of stevia: 1. Stevia is a sugar substitute made from the leaves of the stevia plant. Artificial sweeteners and other sugar substitutes. That includes soft drinks, candy and baked goods. Any use of this site constitutes your agreement to the Terms and Conditions and Privacy Policy linked below. National Cancer Institute. Many sugar substitutes taste sweeter than sugar. Metabolism 2003;52(3):372-378. And while the study published in December 2015 in Physiology & Behavior also investigated whether stevia can impair gut flora in the digestive tract, more research is needed to solidify the link. DOI: Zeratsky K. (2018). A pinch of stevia powder is equal to about one teaspoon of table sugar. That makes sugar-free sweeteners popular among people with diabetes, who need to monitor blood sugar levels closely. Stevia: Nature's Zero-Calorie, Sustainable Sweetener. While most people will not experience any side effects from consuming it, stevia blends containing sugar alcohols may cause gastrointestinal symptoms in people with sugar alcohol sensitivity. High blood pressure may also increase the risk of heart attacks. View abstract. information highlighted below and resubmit the form. J Agric Food Chem 2008;56:3777-84. This article discusses the different forms of stevia and the side effects of this sugar alternative. You can bake with stevia, although it may give cakes and cookies a licorice aftertaste.