Q: Can Stevia be used by diabetics? What are its advantages?

A:Stevia is a sweetener that in effect is similar to saccharine and can be used in the same way as other artificial sugar substitutes. The advantage of stevia is that it has a natural source and it seems to be non-toxic. It is surprising that it is not used more frequently in view of its safety. It has not gained recognition in the USA although experience in Japan is very favourable. It is worth trying with careful monitoring of the response in patients with diabetes.