Yes, Bloom Greens & Superfoods contains stevia
For anyone asking, "Is there stevia in Bloom?" the answer is a clear yes. The supplement, known for its mix of green superfoods, probiotics, and other blends, uses stevia leaf extract as a natural, calorie-free sweetener. The inclusion of stevia (often listed as 'Reb A') helps to mask the earthy, grassy flavor commonly associated with greens powders, making the product more palatable for consumers. The specific amount of stevia can vary by flavor, which might influence the sweetness level perceived by users. This sweetening strategy aligns with Bloom Nutrition's goal of creating health supplements that are not only high-quality but also enjoyable to consume.
What exactly is stevia?
Stevia is a natural sweetener derived from the leaves of the Stevia rebaudiana plant, which is native to South America. The sweet components, called steviol glycosides, are extracted and purified to be used as a high-intensity, zero-calorie sweetener. Steviol glycosides can be up to 350 times sweeter than regular sugar, so only a tiny amount is needed to achieve a significant sweet taste.
Characteristics of stevia:
- Zero calories: Stevia is a non-nutritive sweetener, meaning it provides sweetness without adding carbohydrates or calories to the diet.
- Plant-based origin: It comes from a natural source, which is appealing to many people seeking alternatives to artificial sweeteners.
- High purity: Major regulatory bodies, including the FDA in the United States, have approved high-purity stevia leaf extracts as 'Generally Recognized as Safe' (GRAS) for use in foods and beverages.
- Variable taste: The taste profile can be complex; while some find it to be a clean sweetness, others perceive a mild, licorice-like or bitter aftertaste, especially at higher concentrations.
- Impact on blood sugar: Because it does not contain sugar, stevia does not affect blood glucose levels, making it a suitable sweetener for people managing diabetes.
Stevia's role in the Bloom Greens formula
The addition of stevia to Bloom's formula is strategic. Greens powders, by nature, contain numerous plant-based ingredients that can have an unappealing taste on their own. Bloom uses stevia to enhance the flavor and create a more pleasant drinking experience. This is particularly important for a product that is intended for daily consumption to support consistent nutrient intake.
Potential pros and cons of stevia in greens powders
Using stevia in a daily supplement like Bloom comes with both benefits and drawbacks that consumers should consider.
Pros:
- Calorie reduction: By replacing sugar, stevia allows the greens powder to be virtually calorie-free, which is beneficial for weight management or low-calorie diets.
- Blood sugar control: As a non-glycemic sweetener, it prevents spikes in blood sugar, making it safe for individuals with diabetes.
- Pleasant taste: It makes the greens powder palatable and delicious, increasing the likelihood that users will consistently drink it.
- Natural origin: For those who prefer sweeteners from natural sources over synthetic alternatives, stevia is an attractive option.
Cons:
- Aftertaste: Some users are sensitive to the aftertaste of stevia, which they might find bitter or artificial.
- Digestive issues: Certain individuals report digestive discomfort such as bloating or gas, particularly with higher intake, which can sometimes be exacerbated by sugar alcohols mixed with stevia.
- Taste preference: Even with flavoring and stevia, some consumers still find the taste of greens powders unappealing, as taste is highly subjective.
- Masking effect: The intense sweetness can mask the true taste of the 'greens,' which may not be a concern for all users, but it's a difference to be aware of.
Comparison: Bloom Greens and other sweeteners
To understand the role of stevia, it's helpful to compare it to other common sweeteners found in supplements and foods.
| Feature | Stevia (in Bloom) | Refined Sugar (Sucrose) | Monk Fruit Extract | Artificial Sweeteners (e.g., Sucralose) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Source | Stevia leaf (natural) | Sugarcane/sugar beets (natural) | Monk fruit (natural) | Synthetically produced |
| Calories | Zero | ~4 calories per gram | Zero | Zero |
| Blood Sugar Impact | None | Spikes blood sugar | None | None |
| Taste | Intense sweetness, possible aftertaste | Classic sweet taste | Intense sweetness, no aftertaste for most | Intense sweetness, no aftertaste for most |
| Health Concerns | Generally safe; possible GI issues with some additives | Linked to obesity and diabetes risk | Generally safe | Safety debated, approved by FDA |
Conclusion
In summary, Bloom Greens & Superfoods uses stevia leaf extract as a zero-calorie, natural sweetener to improve the taste of its nutrient-dense powder. While it effectively masks the earthy flavors of the greens and aligns with a sugar-free approach, the perception of its taste and potential for minor digestive issues can vary among individuals. As with any dietary supplement, understanding the ingredients, including the type of sweetener, is key to making an informed choice for your personal nutrition diet. It is essential to remember that supplements like Bloom are intended to complement a healthy diet, not replace whole fruits and vegetables. For those with specific health conditions or sensitivities, consulting a healthcare provider before use is always recommended. For further reading, the National Institutes of Health (NIH) offers detailed information on the safety and use of stevia and other non-nutritive sweeteners.
