LETTER TO THE EDITOR Stevia: It's Not Just About Calories
نویسندگان
چکیده
The recent review of Stevia [1] contributes to furthering the scientific database of stevia (leaf and extract), steviol glycosides, and steviol and their applications in food and beverages. The article discussed these compounds in relation to perceived pharmacological activity, their potential use as therapeutic agents, and available toxicological and clinical evidence to support safety. While the overall conclusions that steviol glycosides specifically are safe for use in food applications are appropriate, the authors did not adequately differentiate between the results of studies relating to the toxicological, biochemical and pharmacological profiles of uncharacterized stevioside/steviol glycoside preparations (e.g., stevia leaf extracts or stevia leaf preparations) and those from studies conducted on purified preparations of stevioside/steviol glycosides and steviol. Also, the authors cited the conclusions of regulatory authorities with respect to characterized preparations of steviol glycosides to support the safety of stevia extracts/leaf preparations. Finally, the authors do not include the latest positions of regulatory authorities regarding human safety of steviol glycosides.
منابع مشابه
Stevia: It’s Not Just About Calories
Objective: Although stevia leaf extract is an accepted sugar substitute that can contribute to improved caloric management and weight control, it also may enhance other aspects of human health. The effectiveness and safety of stevia leaf extract in these additional roles was evaluated. Methods: A detailed literature review was conducted and summarized. Results: An extract of the leaf of the her...
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