Wish I'd learned about stevia years ago. I always avoided sugary sodas but drank lots of diet soda. Eventually I realized that aspartame and sucralose had nasty side effects. My soft drink of choice these days is a packet of True Lemon or True Lime in a glass of water, lightly sweetened with stevia. It's completely natural, zero calories, tasty, and refreshing. And I can keep a supply in my desk at work or in a bowl on the counter at home.
True Lemon/Lime are packets of crystallized juice.
There's a woman that makes the best vegan videos I have seen on YT, she's very balanced, and she says not to go for the crystallized kind, because that's refined like white sugar. But there are plenty of other forms. I'm going to try this, and thanks for the video, great stuff.
Yes, she's right: white stevia powder is an extract and is refined.
It's not like refined sugar, however. It has no effect whatsoever on blood sugar.
So far as I have been able to discover, no-one has found any ill-effects of consuming ordinary doses. The only negative studies involve vast doses force-fed to laboratory animals, or heating stevia extract to a high enough temperature that chemical changes are induced to produce carcinogens. Used normally, the powder seems to be harmless.
Yes, she's right: white stevia powder is an extract and is refined.
It's not like refined sugar, however. It has no effect whatsoever on blood sugar.
So far as I have been able to discover, no-one has found any ill-effects of consuming ordinary doses. The only negative studies involve vast doses force-fed to laboratory animals, or heating stevia extract to a high enough temperature that chemical changes are induced to produce carcinogens. Used normally, the powder seems to be harmless.
Very nice, healthy choice chocolate recipe, thank you. Also, thank you for pointing out Tropical Traditions, they go the extra mile in explaining precisely "how & what" goes into their coconut products. This speaks volumes toward the products a company sells.
One in vitro study suggesting a potential negative effect of stevia on male fertility in rats was later debunked based on in vivo research on the topic (Aritajat et al. 2000).
It's hard for us to wrap our minds around the fact that people will lie to us, isn't it? But that debunked study is still being cited as "truth" in many places on the net.
There are commercial interests who are threatened by stevia, you understand. It's in their interests to spew disinformation all day long.
@Urgelt Thank you Urgelt. Often, I don't know what to believe and what not. It is very difficult to find the right and true sources. After all I rather believe in the things that yoz say and write than those from any internet source. Since I first watched your videos, you have become a real "guru" for me, if you can call it that.
However, sorry for my crappy English and thank you for your informative and helping work.
Sugarless root beer is even more toxic. Artificial sweeteners are damaging to human health. Google 'aspartame' for an example. It breaks down into formaldehyde and other scrumptious chemicals.
That isn't a fringe viewpoint. It's science. The fringe viewpoint is that soft drinks are safe to consume, which is a viewpoint unsupported by science.
It's supported by advertising, though. Which tells you how people get their information.
@Urgelt yes ok that makes scense and i did google that...but i really like rot beer is there sonthing healthy that i can replace it with? do you have eny suggestions
What works for me is herbal and green teas (mostly herbal).
My problem for years was that I didn't much like the flat, slightly bitter taste of most teas. But now that I use stevia to sweeten tea, it satisfies the part of my brain that used to crave soft drinks.
There are dozens of different varieties of herbal teas to try. Some of them you might like.
I use an 18-oz mug, one tea bag, a wee pinch of stevia extract powder, and almost-boiling water. I like the result hot or cold.
Has the stevia in your video been processed to appear white? I bought some in plant form at my local farmers market, dried it out in my dehydrator and used it in my tea but it remained green. What sort of processing does it undergo to become white like regular(bad for you) sugar?
I vaguely know that extracts are obtained from vegetable matter through use of a solvent, then evaporating the solvent. Which solvent is used for stevia production, I don't know. Alcohol, maybe.
Normally I recommend food be obtained in its natural state, unprocessed. I make an exception for stevia for my convenience. The extract powder has a very long shelf life. And I'm consuming so little that I don't think of it as a source of nutrition, but a flavoring.
ahhh, ok. I posted on another channel asking if it wasn't good to use it as I have and was told that it is toxic (???) I guess that was just some smart @#$ remark from a lonely internet surfer looking for attention...hahaha
There are a very small number of studies which accuse stevia extract of toxicity.
These studies were funded by the food and chemical industries, and they used a trick: high temperature cooking. Then they harvested carcinogenic toxins out of the resulting sludge and published.
Thing is, you can do that with any organic substance. Cook it long enough and you'll have carcinogenic toxins.
Or they force-fed rats ridiculously vast quantities, and noted physiological effects. But you know, anything in large enough doses can be toxic - even plain water.
At the doses you will need for sweetening, which are quite small, stevia has no known harmful effects. It may even be slightly beneficial - some studies have found a reduction in mouth bacteria and improved insulin sensitivity after consuming it.
I suppose there might be something we don't yet know about the toxicity of stevia. But stevia has been used for decades, and so far, nothing has come up that can't be traced to cooked science paid for by corporations with a vested interest in protecting their current profit streams.
I wish the stevia extract wasn't made to resemble regular sugar. It makes me quite hesitant to use it in that form. I would like to find how the extract compares to the actual plant (dried and milled to a powder). Do you know of any sources that might have links to this type of study?
I have read information on the plain water statement you make. Hard to believe, but very true. I have even read somewhere that a study was done on frogs who had been put into regular tap water. The male frogs began to develop female characteristics on a physiological level. Have you heard of anything like that?
I agree with you on the carcinogenic toxins statement. As for the funding of studies, it is my belief that "the powers that be" have been purposely feeding the entire human population false information for several millennia.
Stevia is all the range in the "health community" these days... But, Urgelt was telling us about it years ago. Urgelt - aren't you going to post any more videos? I miss them....
Understand. Thank you so much for your reply. We should teach our kids don't be addicted to sweeters. I like your videos. Keep posting. Happy new year!
It's not an aftertaste. It's a "bitter component." I haven't noticed much of an aftertaste, like you get with some artificial sweeteners.
There are three things you can do to minimize the bitterness. First, use little. Stevia, used correctly, yields a mild sweetness and almost no bitterness. Don't go for something as sweet as honey, though, or the bitterness will be pronounced.
Second, use it with things where bitterness makes sense - like chocolate or tea, where a little bite is good.
Avoid, unless you don't mind making yourself sick.
Already reports of serious side-effects are accumulating.
Cargill, the manufacturer, claims Truvia is somehow connected to stevia. It isn't. There is no natural stevia in the product. Truvia is just another patented chemical sweetener - the latest in a long list of them, none of which has proven to be safe for consumers.
i just found out that stevie is illegal in my hometown germany becouse the goverment says they dont know enough about the plant bla bla typical german bullshit =(
I think it's important for you to find out exactly what the law says, Reedeema. Does it criminalize possession? Is it against the law to buy it from a foreign source for your own personal use? Or is it only illegal for manufacturers to put into products?
Once you figure out exactly what the law says... hey, music is a great medium for protest. You're a musician and songwriter. Write a song. :-)
Moderate consumption of chocolate, of which cocoa butter is a component, has been found in studies to offer health benefits. How many of those benefits are due to the cocoa butter, I don't know. But like coconut oil, cocoa butter is a tropical food rich in saturated fats. My hunch is it's good nutrition.
If we can avoid the sugar and, possibly worse, artificial sweeteners that manufacturers put in chocolate, it ought to be a good food to include in our diets. That's where stevia comes in.
Thanks for the recipe Urgelt! These videos are wonderful. Thanks for making them. I just made some of the "chocolate" that you described, and I just want to let people know that what you say about the Stevia is very true, a little goes a long way. So, watch out!
Also, I found that the cocoa and coconut cream mixture didn't mix as smoothly as I thought it should. Perhaps I'm using a different coconut cream. Anyways, I found heating it in a saucepan helped make everything smooth. Thanks again.
I admit, everything about this "recipe" requires experimentation. Fortunately, we can always resort to a saucepan, as you did, if we encounter blending problems with the ingredients we select.
One of these days I think I"ll use cocoa butter instead of coconut cream, and make "genuine" stevia chocolate. That will require a sauce pan, I'm pretty sure.
I think that the big multi-million dollar sugar companies have paid the FDA to not aprove stevia as a sweetener, because the sugar companies know that if more people knew about stevia and it was approved, they would loose alot of money.
Thank you very much Urgelt for the valuable information about stevia. I think stevia could give alot of people hope who are struggling with there diets.
It's not just sugar manufacturers who have an interest. The non-calorie sweetener industry would be harmed the most if stevia were approved.
I don't assert that anyone "pays the FDA not to approve stevia." The corruption is a bit more subtle. The food industry gains influence through political contributions. Its executives are then appointed to the FDA (quid pro quo), and those executives see to it that the food industry's tame experts are hired by the FDA to serve on advisory boards.
Being a natural plant; it would no doubt cut into the corporate sales of Splenda®, Nutrasweet® and Sweet&Low®. Meaning, Im gonna try it as soon as I can..;-)
Hello from the UK - I also came across your videos whilst research Oolong Tea. This was to be used as a dietry aid. I had never heard of Stevia but I am convinced of its advantageous ingredients. So I am going down this line. I can get the tea from the US or even in the UK Stevia is very difficult to purchase unless you go to the internet So with diet,exercise and the aforementioned I do hope I have found the holy Grail !! I really enjoy your videos and your laid back style.
Heh, I doubt I've found the Holy Grail of nutrition. There's just too much yet to be understood, and of what is known, I only know a part.
The stevia market is steadily growing in the US, in spite of opposition by agribusiness and its allies in government and the media. It's readily available on the net. Shipping costs don't really amount to much, since a kilo would last you a long, long time.
Hello - Stevia is a definite No, No, in the UK but never-the-less I have some coming from the US. I have on order your ingredients for the chocolate., these I can get from the UK. I am diabetic (Type 2)with a sweet tooth, not a good combination but I think your recipe will be OK ?
I would be interested in your background as you appear to a font of knowledge on many subject or is it just many hours of research before you publish ?
Again thank you for your output - so far 6lbs lost in a week ?
Until recently I didn't realise just how bad sugar is. Apart from what's commonly known, it also causes "silent" inflammation in the body and accelerates the aging process.
I stumbled across this video when googling 'Stevia'.
Im going to watch some of your other videos now, just wanted to let you know that you come across to me as a easy friendly person to listen too and your video is great, with no bullshit for once, hard to come by on 'YouTube'.
Stevia powder is so expensive here in New Zealand, I was actually looking to see if I can grow the plant instead and use the boiling technique, Il sort it out somehow, ive only since known about....
If you're an investor, you might want to check out Sunwin International Nutraceuticals (SUWN). They are a Chinese stevia producer that is expanding into North America. They are already experiencing a lot of demand for their products that will only increase once Coke & Cargill get the FDA to approve stevia as a sweetener.
I want some stevia now... Nice videos! I'm skinny, but I need to have a diet change. I have been living on fast food for the past two monthes. Is there any deals you found on the internet on coconut products? Thanks!
Ordinary people don't have passions about something they barely know exists. I suppose such threats must arise from special interests who feel threatened by stevia.
There might be one or two in 2008, but I make no promises. My interests are broad, and which subject I will tackle next is usually a mystery even to me.
To tide you over, check out usemedstudent's videos. He has presented quite a lot of information worth knowing.
Be careful of licorice root.. its an adrenal stimulant,a laxative and can also neutralize your stomach acids.I became very ill taking licorice supplements and my mother was hospitalized after eating candy flavored with licorice root.Use caution.
Aspartame causes cancer in monkeys, and they're genetically similar to us, yet the food industry relies heavily on aspartame as a sweetener because only a small amount of it produces a very sweet taste. If stevia produces the same sweetness in small quantities, why isn't the food industry using this as a safe alternative to aspartame? There seems to be no reason at all.
Very nice video. there is one catch with stevia-you have to be careful of the brand and type you choose. Anyway, this apply with any other product. Things like, the type of stevia they use (organic or not), the manufacturing process and more. The FDA only serve the clients (big industries) they dont want stevia to take over sweetener market. In japan about 70% of sweetener used is stevia for couple of decades, even in soft drinks.
Agreed, brand is important. I'm fond of the taste of Herbal Advantage's stevia (I'm not paid to say this). They cultivate their own strain.
I'm afraid you are right about the FDA. I'd like to see it change, but it can't happen until we elect uncorrupted politicians - something the US has had difficulty with for a long time.
I agree about brand. I have tried many brands, powders and liquids and the best tasting to me (lacking after tastes) is the KAL powder form.
By the way, I hear that CocaCola is patenting some stevia extracts so as soon as the industry can privatize a natural substance and make money from it, it will be available as a sweetener. The FDA is a bunch of corporate scumbags.
I hear there are several patents so they are possibly doing just that. Substituting molecules most likely. The garbage Splenda is a normal sucrose molecule with a bunch of Hydrogen molecules substituted by Chlorine, that is all. New artificial monstrosity born.
I wouldn't take those "health benefits" too awfully seriously; they are small at best. But after reviewing scientific studies about it, I'm pretty sure it's not harmful, unlike artificial sweeteners.
Unless you have an odd allergy, of course. There's always someone out there who is allergic to any substance you can name.
The coconut cream is a replacement for cocoa butter. The oil - it takes very little - just softens the mixture so it's easy to mix, the coconut cream I buy is awfully thick.
If I were to experiment with cocoa butter, I would mix it with coconut cream and try to find the best-tasting ratio. I'm really sold on coconut cream as both pleasing to taste and helping to satisfy cravings.
I've seen nothing in the scientific literature on cancer suggesting that sugar *causes* cancer. But it does seem that it may accelerate some cancer types.
Consuming excess sugar can cause the body to produce, not only more insulin, but also human growth factor hormones. Those hormones may speed the growth of some hormone-sensitive cancers.
That said, I've yet to see anything that would rule out your hypothesis. I think it likely that we do not yet know all the ways that junk food and excessive sweets can harm us.
But we know some of the ways they can harm us, and that's enough information for us to make good personal choices about our diet, I think.
Since you were talking about soda, I think I should point out that a new soda company in Seattle has started making all-natural sodas made with stevia. No artificial flavorings, sweeteners, or any other bad stuff. And it tastes great.
(part II)They assumed that since most folks liked smoked pork, that would sell better. But sales of the glazed hams was something like triple that of smoked. Long story short, over the years food companies realized that adding sugar to anything creates higher sales because sugar is basially addictive.
Here's another reason sugar is everywhere. A little over a century ago, when mass canning was just getting underway, one of the big meat packers (Cudahy or Hormel) sent two types of canned ham into the marketplace: Smoked and glazed. (part I)
About stevia: Here in Europe stevia is forbidden, not possible to get anywhere. The European union banded stevia and explained the decision with need of proof that stevia is harmless. But some professors and other experts over here, are working to make "EU" reverse this decision, some of them have received threats.
I have heard of stevia myself. Great on celery and in tea for sure. I just wanted to say that your chocolate recipe works great for me. Totally cures the "sugar cravings". Excellent video.
Chocolate already has a slight bitter undertaste, so stevia seems to harmonize with it. If you can't seem to get the right bitter/sweet ratio, though, you might want to look specifically for a low-bitterness source for your stevia. I've given a source elsewhere in these comments.
I'm very happy with the stevia sold by Herbal Advantage; Google it. The bitter taste I've run into from other sources is less with the plant they've cultivated. I use the powdered form.
My opinion is that getting to 70-75 or so successfully is pretty much a function of diet, toxin and infectious disease avoidance and moderate exercise for most people. Beyond that, our genes tell the body to begin to fail. Genetic research may eventually hold some answers for true life extension (past 85-90 years). I'm skeptical of any other agenda.
The video on Stevia (# 4 in the series) won't play. It starts but 'freezes'. All of the other videos in this series seem to work fine and YouTube generally seems to be working. Just a head's-up
I just now played it all the way through, flameburns623, and it never hesitated. Sometimes YouTube messes up, though, and I have to hit the reload button on a video to get it to play.
I find this so weird to watch!! I'm a walking furnace (it seems) I've weighed the same for 15 years, so I don't really pay attention to what goes in. The chocolate receipy was excellent! Recently I find sweets only taste of sugar so this will be a great alternative
Since I just found out about it, it'll take a while till I get round to (I guess). But I hope I will be able to grow it myself. I'll be looking into whether that works in southern europe.
Yes, also chocolate liqueur, other natural flavorings, healthy nuts like walnuts and almonds, vanilla (not vanillin)... the possibilities are nearly endless.
Mint is perfectly safe and even has medicinal qualities. Just be carefull that there are no artificial additives to the mint extract, like artificial colors. Beware if you see the word "natural flavors" in the ingredients, because that usually means there is some sort of processed additive.
"In 1991, at the request of an anonymous complaint, the United States Food and Drug Administration labeled stevia as an "unsafe food additive" and restricted its import." I guess there would be an economical motive behind that anonymous complaint...
I love stevia and I have some growing in my back yard. Stevia also helps control insulin levels, so it's great for diabetics. Have you ever tried agave nectar? This is also a great one for diabetics because the body does not see it as a sugar. Very yummy almost like honey but way thinner and is filled with many antioxidants...if I remember correctly.
Yes stevia is awesome, I sold it all the time when working at the vitamin shoppe. But they only sold it in little packets for coffee not bulk. I will order from the internet next since I don't work at VS anymore
You are so right about getting sick from articificial sweetners. I became very ill from eating Neutrasweet and Splenda. Thank you so much for the video. It is very helpful. I have tried stevia before, however when I tried it I found it to be rather bitter. I called the company and they advised me to mix it correctly..which I was..I will need to look for some that is less bitter. But thanks again!
Thanks for commenting, Vanessa. Read the comments on this video, there's a source mentioned for a brand of stevia that's very low in steviosides (the bitter agent). It's never going to be as purely sweet as sugar, but it's close.
I wondered if anyone would ask about that. Go here for cola tea: http://www.island-rose.com/ and look for Long Island Tea. They've got some other good teas. Like Rum Vanilla black tea. Mmm.
Ah, your videos have gotten the wrong comments, but believe me, I watched them all thoroughly and in order, YouTube just wouldn't let me comment them chronologically.
stevia has a funky taste. I have trouble getting used to it. I have some liquid stevia and it's sitting in my cabinet. It's full of vitamin C and it helps when I get colds though.
Urgelt.. I just started watching your videos and I'm very interested in purchasing this stevia sweetener. You just said to buy the powder form, but I noticed there's a white extract powder on here as well. Your powder stevia looked very white, is this the one I should purchase? Thank you so much for this tip.
I buy the white extract powder. It's very concentrated, a little goes a long way. But I think all the different forms are good if they're low in steviosides, as is the case with Herbal Advantage.
Tonight, I made a fresh batch of stevia coconut cream dark chocolate, and this time added natural raspberry flavoring. Mmm. Delicious!
I only drink water in summer and tea in winter (And some coffee ;) ). Never really got into that softdrink thing, maybe because my parents always had some at home, so it wasn't exiting to drink them. I don't use sweeteners in my tea, but I think I'm gonna try that chocolate-recipe, so thanks for sharing.
Kenny brought up chocolate liquor as a flavor enhancer. I remember now that chocolate liquor is used in most commercial chocolates. Probably it would be good to add to the ingredients I mentioned.
Try just one cup with a tiny bit of stevia. Just try it. :-)
I'll have to do some research on the value of coconut and it's oil. I use Extra Virgin Olive Oil on veggies, sweet potatoes and white potatoes. I also make a homemade pizza with ground flax seeds, avocado, tomato paste and ground garlic on Oat Bran bread. It's possible to eat healthy while still enjoying delicious meals!
Wish I'd learned about stevia years ago. I always avoided sugary sodas but drank lots of diet soda. Eventually I realized that aspartame and sucralose had nasty side effects. My soft drink of choice these days is a packet of True Lemon or True Lime in a glass of water, lightly sweetened with stevia. It's completely natural, zero calories, tasty, and refreshing. And I can keep a supply in my desk at work or in a bowl on the counter at home.
True Lemon/Lime are packets of crystallized juice.
Spargemeister 3 months ago
Thanks for sharing your tip, Sparge. :-)
Urgelt 3 months ago
There's a woman that makes the best vegan videos I have seen on YT, she's very balanced, and she says not to go for the crystallized kind, because that's refined like white sugar. But there are plenty of other forms. I'm going to try this, and thanks for the video, great stuff.
boobootoob 4 months ago
Yes, she's right: white stevia powder is an extract and is refined.
It's not like refined sugar, however. It has no effect whatsoever on blood sugar.
So far as I have been able to discover, no-one has found any ill-effects of consuming ordinary doses. The only negative studies involve vast doses force-fed to laboratory animals, or heating stevia extract to a high enough temperature that chemical changes are induced to produce carcinogens. Used normally, the powder seems to be harmless.
Urgelt 4 months ago
Yes, she's right: white stevia powder is an extract and is refined.
It's not like refined sugar, however. It has no effect whatsoever on blood sugar.
So far as I have been able to discover, no-one has found any ill-effects of consuming ordinary doses. The only negative studies involve vast doses force-fed to laboratory animals, or heating stevia extract to a high enough temperature that chemical changes are induced to produce carcinogens. Used normally, the powder seems to be harmless.
Urgelt 4 months ago
Very nice, healthy choice chocolate recipe, thank you. Also, thank you for pointing out Tropical Traditions, they go the extra mile in explaining precisely "how & what" goes into their coconut products. This speaks volumes toward the products a company sells.
Regards
sowhtttt 9 months ago
I just read: Stevia damages / lowers male fertility.
Perscriptions 10 months ago
One in vitro study suggesting a potential negative effect of stevia on male fertility in rats was later debunked based on in vivo research on the topic (Aritajat et al. 2000).
It's hard for us to wrap our minds around the fact that people will lie to us, isn't it? But that debunked study is still being cited as "truth" in many places on the net.
There are commercial interests who are threatened by stevia, you understand. It's in their interests to spew disinformation all day long.
Urgelt 10 months ago 2
@Urgelt Thank you Urgelt. Often, I don't know what to believe and what not. It is very difficult to find the right and true sources. After all I rather believe in the things that yoz say and write than those from any internet source. Since I first watched your videos, you have become a real "guru" for me, if you can call it that.
However, sorry for my crappy English and thank you for your informative and helping work.
Perscriptions 10 months ago
what about root beer?
iggymydog 1 year ago
Sugar, toxic preservatives and toxic coloring.
Sugarless root beer is even more toxic. Artificial sweeteners are damaging to human health. Google 'aspartame' for an example. It breaks down into formaldehyde and other scrumptious chemicals.
That isn't a fringe viewpoint. It's science. The fringe viewpoint is that soft drinks are safe to consume, which is a viewpoint unsupported by science.
It's supported by advertising, though. Which tells you how people get their information.
Urgelt 1 year ago
@Urgelt yes ok that makes scense and i did google that...but i really like rot beer is there sonthing healthy that i can replace it with? do you have eny suggestions
iggymydog 1 year ago
What works for me is herbal and green teas (mostly herbal).
My problem for years was that I didn't much like the flat, slightly bitter taste of most teas. But now that I use stevia to sweeten tea, it satisfies the part of my brain that used to crave soft drinks.
There are dozens of different varieties of herbal teas to try. Some of them you might like.
I use an 18-oz mug, one tea bag, a wee pinch of stevia extract powder, and almost-boiling water. I like the result hot or cold.
Urgelt 1 year ago
I hate the background noise
magicidiot12345 1 year ago
Has the stevia in your video been processed to appear white? I bought some in plant form at my local farmers market, dried it out in my dehydrator and used it in my tea but it remained green. What sort of processing does it undergo to become white like regular(bad for you) sugar?
313HealthyMe 1 year ago
I'm using white extract powder.
I vaguely know that extracts are obtained from vegetable matter through use of a solvent, then evaporating the solvent. Which solvent is used for stevia production, I don't know. Alcohol, maybe.
Normally I recommend food be obtained in its natural state, unprocessed. I make an exception for stevia for my convenience. The extract powder has a very long shelf life. And I'm consuming so little that I don't think of it as a source of nutrition, but a flavoring.
Urgelt 1 year ago
ahhh, ok. I posted on another channel asking if it wasn't good to use it as I have and was told that it is toxic (???) I guess that was just some smart @#$ remark from a lonely internet surfer looking for attention...hahaha
313HealthyMe 1 year ago
There are a very small number of studies which accuse stevia extract of toxicity.
These studies were funded by the food and chemical industries, and they used a trick: high temperature cooking. Then they harvested carcinogenic toxins out of the resulting sludge and published.
Thing is, you can do that with any organic substance. Cook it long enough and you'll have carcinogenic toxins.
Urgelt 1 year ago
Or they force-fed rats ridiculously vast quantities, and noted physiological effects. But you know, anything in large enough doses can be toxic - even plain water.
At the doses you will need for sweetening, which are quite small, stevia has no known harmful effects. It may even be slightly beneficial - some studies have found a reduction in mouth bacteria and improved insulin sensitivity after consuming it.
Urgelt 1 year ago
I suppose there might be something we don't yet know about the toxicity of stevia. But stevia has been used for decades, and so far, nothing has come up that can't be traced to cooked science paid for by corporations with a vested interest in protecting their current profit streams.
Urgelt 1 year ago
I wish the stevia extract wasn't made to resemble regular sugar. It makes me quite hesitant to use it in that form. I would like to find how the extract compares to the actual plant (dried and milled to a powder). Do you know of any sources that might have links to this type of study?
313HealthyMe 1 year ago
I have read information on the plain water statement you make. Hard to believe, but very true. I have even read somewhere that a study was done on frogs who had been put into regular tap water. The male frogs began to develop female characteristics on a physiological level. Have you heard of anything like that?
313HealthyMe 1 year ago
I agree with you on the carcinogenic toxins statement. As for the funding of studies, it is my belief that "the powers that be" have been purposely feeding the entire human population false information for several millennia.
313HealthyMe 1 year ago
Stevia is all the range in the "health community" these days... But, Urgelt was telling us about it years ago. Urgelt - aren't you going to post any more videos? I miss them....
manfredoxyz 1 year ago
just one question: Why we need something taste sweet?!
pcuncle 2 years ago
Not everyone does. But many of us have a vulnerability for sweets and find it difficult to do without.
If you enjoy sweets, and can indulge without harming yourself... why not?
That's why stevia is useful. No calories, no toxic effects as with artificial sweeteners, and it satisfies a craving many of us have.
Urgelt 2 years ago
Understand. Thank you so much for your reply. We should teach our kids don't be addicted to sweeters. I like your videos. Keep posting. Happy new year!
pcuncle 2 years ago
I am in love with you! Thank you for your straightforwardness and honesty. Jodie Silbaugh
electricfemale 2 years ago
Thanks for the option Urgelt!
kurtnils 2 years ago
I've read that some people think stevia has a bitter aftertaste? What would you say it tastes like?
AwesomeFlotsam 2 years ago
It's not an aftertaste. It's a "bitter component." I haven't noticed much of an aftertaste, like you get with some artificial sweeteners.
There are three things you can do to minimize the bitterness. First, use little. Stevia, used correctly, yields a mild sweetness and almost no bitterness. Don't go for something as sweet as honey, though, or the bitterness will be pronounced.
Second, use it with things where bitterness makes sense - like chocolate or tea, where a little bite is good.
Urgelt 2 years ago
Third, choose your brand carefully. Not all brands are equal in bitterness. Write to me if you wish me to recommend a brand
Urgelt 2 years ago
Any thoughts on the Truvia brand sweetener?
AwesomeFlotsam 1 year ago
Avoid, unless you don't mind making yourself sick.
Already reports of serious side-effects are accumulating.
Cargill, the manufacturer, claims Truvia is somehow connected to stevia. It isn't. There is no natural stevia in the product. Truvia is just another patented chemical sweetener - the latest in a long list of them, none of which has proven to be safe for consumers.
Urgelt 1 year ago
What a kind, soft spoken man, with tremendous will to share his knowledge.
Simirial 2 years ago
thanks alot for this i Just got my first plants
TnWormsCastings 2 years ago
Good to hear, TnWC. I hope you'll enjoy them.
Urgelt 2 years ago
hi urgelt
i just found out that stevie is illegal in my hometown germany becouse the goverment says they dont know enough about the plant bla bla typical german bullshit =(
reedeema 2 years ago
I think it's important for you to find out exactly what the law says, Reedeema. Does it criminalize possession? Is it against the law to buy it from a foreign source for your own personal use? Or is it only illegal for manufacturers to put into products?
Once you figure out exactly what the law says... hey, music is a great medium for protest. You're a musician and songwriter. Write a song. :-)
Urgelt 2 years ago
hehe good idea ^^
reedeema 2 years ago
Sugar industry propaganda. They've tried to demonize stevia for a looooong time now.
InSaneTK 2 years ago
Thank you.
I cant waite to make this healthy recipe.
Sallyakerti 2 years ago
Welcome, and enjoy, Sally.
Urgelt 2 years ago
I made a killer Meat sauce with some stevia and hot sauce. Stevia has replaced at least half of my sugar intake. I love the stuff.
PhilloBaggins 2 years ago
Sounds delicious!
Urgelt 2 years ago
Is cocoa butter a healthy substitute for coconut cream?
dylanzwick 2 years ago
Moderate consumption of chocolate, of which cocoa butter is a component, has been found in studies to offer health benefits. How many of those benefits are due to the cocoa butter, I don't know. But like coconut oil, cocoa butter is a tropical food rich in saturated fats. My hunch is it's good nutrition.
If we can avoid the sugar and, possibly worse, artificial sweeteners that manufacturers put in chocolate, it ought to be a good food to include in our diets. That's where stevia comes in.
Urgelt 2 years ago
Thanks for the recipe Urgelt! These videos are wonderful. Thanks for making them. I just made some of the "chocolate" that you described, and I just want to let people know that what you say about the Stevia is very true, a little goes a long way. So, watch out!
Also, I found that the cocoa and coconut cream mixture didn't mix as smoothly as I thought it should. Perhaps I'm using a different coconut cream. Anyways, I found heating it in a saucepan helped make everything smooth. Thanks again.
dylanzwick 2 years ago
I admit, everything about this "recipe" requires experimentation. Fortunately, we can always resort to a saucepan, as you did, if we encounter blending problems with the ingredients we select.
One of these days I think I"ll use cocoa butter instead of coconut cream, and make "genuine" stevia chocolate. That will require a sauce pan, I'm pretty sure.
Urgelt 2 years ago
Thank you for the video. At Herbal Advantage online, i cant find the 3lbs bag, you shown in the video.
pbatrader 2 years ago
Hmm, they might have changed their product lineup around some. Might want to drop them an e-mail and ask them about it.
I've used that bag of stevia every day since making this video, gave some of it to a neighbor - and I've still got at least a third of it left.
Urgelt 2 years ago
I gotta get this stuff!
airdreamlove 3 years ago
how old are u
justpooped17 3 years ago
Thankyou!
TheTwoEducators 3 years ago
Stevia is now such a pillar in my life that I tend to forget, it takes practice to learn to use it. Expect to do some experimenting.
Urgelt 3 years ago
I think that the big multi-million dollar sugar companies have paid the FDA to not aprove stevia as a sweetener, because the sugar companies know that if more people knew about stevia and it was approved, they would loose alot of money.
Thank you very much Urgelt for the valuable information about stevia. I think stevia could give alot of people hope who are struggling with there diets.
ficus50 3 years ago
It's not just sugar manufacturers who have an interest. The non-calorie sweetener industry would be harmed the most if stevia were approved.
I don't assert that anyone "pays the FDA not to approve stevia." The corruption is a bit more subtle. The food industry gains influence through political contributions. Its executives are then appointed to the FDA (quid pro quo), and those executives see to it that the food industry's tame experts are hired by the FDA to serve on advisory boards.
Urgelt 3 years ago
oh, thats for the reply :)
say, what site do you buy your stevia from?
ficus50 3 years ago
Herbal Advantage. I like their stuff. (I'm not compensated for saying that, and have no interest in the company.)
Urgelt 3 years ago
Thanks Urgelt! from another enthusiastic new user from The Netherlands. ;-)
panthera50 3 years ago
Most welcome, P50.
Urgelt 3 years ago
Being a natural plant; it would no doubt cut into the corporate sales of Splenda®, Nutrasweet® and Sweet&Low®. Meaning, Im gonna try it as soon as I can..;-)
newmac 3 years ago
Yes, stevia has the big food conglomerates nervous. It's not patentable; anyone can grow it.
Lobbying and corruption are the only way to explain why stevia is not approved as an alternative sweetener by the FDA, far as I can see.
Urgelt 3 years ago
Hello from the UK - I also came across your videos whilst research Oolong Tea. This was to be used as a dietry aid. I had never heard of Stevia but I am convinced of its advantageous ingredients. So I am going down this line. I can get the tea from the US or even in the UK Stevia is very difficult to purchase unless you go to the internet So with diet,exercise and the aforementioned I do hope I have found the holy Grail !! I really enjoy your videos and your laid back style.
brian0587yendell 3 years ago
Heh, I doubt I've found the Holy Grail of nutrition. There's just too much yet to be understood, and of what is known, I only know a part.
The stevia market is steadily growing in the US, in spite of opposition by agribusiness and its allies in government and the media. It's readily available on the net. Shipping costs don't really amount to much, since a kilo would last you a long, long time.
Urgelt 3 years ago
Hello - Stevia is a definite No, No, in the UK but never-the-less I have some coming from the US. I have on order your ingredients for the chocolate., these I can get from the UK. I am diabetic (Type 2)with a sweet tooth, not a good combination but I think your recipe will be OK ?
I would be interested in your background as you appear to a font of knowledge on many subject or is it just many hours of research before you publish ?
Again thank you for your output - so far 6lbs lost in a week ?
brian0587yendell 3 years ago
Until recently I didn't realise just how bad sugar is. Apart from what's commonly known, it also causes "silent" inflammation in the body and accelerates the aging process.
capricious71 3 years ago
Yes, it's bad. We need to spread the word; I see no reason future generations should be kept as ignorant as mine was.
Urgelt 3 years ago
Hi there Sir,
I stumbled across this video when googling 'Stevia'.
Im going to watch some of your other videos now, just wanted to let you know that you come across to me as a easy friendly person to listen too and your video is great, with no bullshit for once, hard to come by on 'YouTube'.
Stevia powder is so expensive here in New Zealand, I was actually looking to see if I can grow the plant instead and use the boiling technique, Il sort it out somehow, ive only since known about....
JwakNZ 4 years ago
'Stevia' for the past 45mins.
Thanks for your video.
JwakNZ 4 years ago
I've heard it's a fairly easy plant to grow. I'm pretty sure you can buy what you need on the net, I'll send you a link.
Urgelt 4 years ago
if stevia has no calories then stavia isn't an actual sugar, it just gives u the taste of sugar without being a sugar itself lol
Psionicman2000 4 years ago
If you're an investor, you might want to check out Sunwin International Nutraceuticals (SUWN). They are a Chinese stevia producer that is expanding into North America. They are already experiencing a lot of demand for their products that will only increase once Coke & Cargill get the FDA to approve stevia as a sweetener.
eeirkgeing 4 years ago
The stevia market is growing, yes - in spite of opposition from the FDA and powerful special interests.
I would advise my readers to be extremely skeptical of anonymous investment advice found in a YouTube comment.
Urgelt 4 years ago
I would too. Always do your own due dilligence!
eeirkgeing 4 years ago
what are the effects of Stevia on teeth?
Thanks urgelt
Alanna x
alanna4858 4 years ago
Stevia doesn't have any calories, so it doesn't encourage mouth bacteria at all.
In Japan, stevia is used to sweeten toothpaste in lieu of the carcinogenic sweeteners used in the Unites States.
Urgelt 4 years ago
Carginogenic? in toothpaste? really? :O :O :O
alanna4858 4 years ago
I want some stevia now... Nice videos! I'm skinny, but I need to have a diet change. I have been living on fast food for the past two monthes. Is there any deals you found on the internet on coconut products? Thanks!
FARTYPANTS30 4 years ago
The supplier I use is organic, adheres to fair trade practices, and has excellent quality control. So the price isn't the best. No deals there.
Urgelt 4 years ago
man. your are the coolest.
great vids.
Zerophoenix1 4 years ago
Thanks, Niko. Hope you enjoy trying some stevia.
Urgelt 4 years ago
Did you know that a Norwegian woman anonym resewed death treats for spreading the information about STEVIA. No why does not that surprise me!
dreamshooter90 4 years ago
Death threats? Really? Huh.
Ordinary people don't have passions about something they barely know exists. I suppose such threats must arise from special interests who feel threatened by stevia.
Urgelt 4 years ago
It is 300 times sweater than sugar
dreamshooter90 4 years ago
Some say 250, some 300, some 350. Perhaps I'll just say "it's very sweet" and leave it at that. :-)
Urgelt 4 years ago
You should be a teacher!!
deviantgirl86 4 years ago
I sort of am! At least I play one on YouTube. :P
Urgelt 4 years ago
There might be one or two in 2008, but I make no promises. My interests are broad, and which subject I will tackle next is usually a mystery even to me.
To tide you over, check out usemedstudent's videos. He has presented quite a lot of information worth knowing.
Urgelt 4 years ago
Be careful of licorice root.. its an adrenal stimulant,a laxative and can also neutralize your stomach acids.I became very ill taking licorice supplements and my mother was hospitalized after eating candy flavored with licorice root.Use caution.
namniekib 4 years ago
Aspartame causes cancer in monkeys, and they're genetically similar to us, yet the food industry relies heavily on aspartame as a sweetener because only a small amount of it produces a very sweet taste. If stevia produces the same sweetness in small quantities, why isn't the food industry using this as a safe alternative to aspartame? There seems to be no reason at all.
Duchova 4 years ago
Aspartame is owned and produced by Monsanto, a huge corporation with tremendous influence in government and throughout the food industry.
A natural sweetener that anyone can grow on a few acres is obviously a threat to Monsanto's profits.
Urgelt 4 years ago
it was very good to listen to your talk. :)
hardipe 4 years ago
Thanks, hardipe.
Urgelt 4 years ago
Very nice video. there is one catch with stevia-you have to be careful of the brand and type you choose. Anyway, this apply with any other product. Things like, the type of stevia they use (organic or not), the manufacturing process and more. The FDA only serve the clients (big industries) they dont want stevia to take over sweetener market. In japan about 70% of sweetener used is stevia for couple of decades, even in soft drinks.
omoshiroii 4 years ago
Agreed, brand is important. I'm fond of the taste of Herbal Advantage's stevia (I'm not paid to say this). They cultivate their own strain.
I'm afraid you are right about the FDA. I'd like to see it change, but it can't happen until we elect uncorrupted politicians - something the US has had difficulty with for a long time.
Urgelt 4 years ago
I agree about brand. I have tried many brands, powders and liquids and the best tasting to me (lacking after tastes) is the KAL powder form.
By the way, I hear that CocaCola is patenting some stevia extracts so as soon as the industry can privatize a natural substance and make money from it, it will be available as a sweetener. The FDA is a bunch of corporate scumbags.
oneyaker 4 years ago
Yeah.
The only way Coca-Cola can patent it is to chemically alter it and produce something new.
A substance with no safety track record - unlike natural stevia, which has been used and studied for decades.
Urgelt 4 years ago
I hear there are several patents so they are possibly doing just that. Substituting molecules most likely. The garbage Splenda is a normal sucrose molecule with a bunch of Hydrogen molecules substituted by Chlorine, that is all. New artificial monstrosity born.
Love your videos.
oneyaker 4 years ago
About Splenda - agreed. Dangerous stuff.
Thanks for your comments, Oneyaker, much appreciated.
Urgelt 4 years ago
Fresh Shores Extra Virgin Coconut Oil is one of the best
omoshiroii 4 years ago
I wouldn't take those "health benefits" too awfully seriously; they are small at best. But after reviewing scientific studies about it, I'm pretty sure it's not harmful, unlike artificial sweeteners.
Unless you have an odd allergy, of course. There's always someone out there who is allergic to any substance you can name.
Urgelt 4 years ago
I've been buying it from Herbal Advantage - Google them.
I'm very satisfied with the product. They have cultivated their own stevia strain that is very low in bitter aftertaste.
Stevia doesn't work in all recipes, but as a sweetener for tea or chocolate, it's terrific.
Urgelt 4 years ago
Good stuff! Stevia chocolate sounds interesting.
I found sources sayng "real" (dark) chocolate should consist of cocoa, sugar, cocoa butter, emulgator and vanilla.
Milk chocolate should have milk powder in it as well.
I get the understanding that the cocoa butter is one of the ingredients that should not be replaced.
Trying to figure out how to make the optimal chocolate with stevia and would like to hear your toughts.
herrlillo 4 years ago
I'd love to try making it with cocoa butter, just haven't gotten around to finding a good source for it.
The last batch I made did include some vanilla.
I prefer dark chocolate, so I haven't been tempted to include milk powder.
If you do some experimenting with ingredients, I hope you'll let us know how it turned out.
Urgelt 4 years ago
I surely will! I will try these coconut products as well. Is it the oil or the cream replacing the cocoa butter?
Here in Norway, I believe cocoa butter is found at healthfood stores.
Did you get that 3lb bag from Herbal Advantage? Looks like they are only selling 1lb bags at the web site.
herrlillo 4 years ago
The coconut cream is a replacement for cocoa butter. The oil - it takes very little - just softens the mixture so it's easy to mix, the coconut cream I buy is awfully thick.
If I were to experiment with cocoa butter, I would mix it with coconut cream and try to find the best-tasting ratio. I'm really sold on coconut cream as both pleasing to taste and helping to satisfy cravings.
Urgelt 4 years ago
How do I know that Stevia is not just another poison like Asparame?
izeman458 4 years ago
Picked up a box of stevia at the wholefoods in my area
Love it!
Last year I lost a friend to cancer of the belly. He was always super skinny and ate candy so much that we dubbed him "the candy man."
Once diagnosed with cancer the first thing the Dr told him sugar has been found to grow cancer like wildfire.
It's my belief that candy caused his cancer or at least made it impossible for him to counter it in time.
Sugar feeds cancer like gasoline feeds fire.
DominickBlack 4 years ago
I've seen nothing in the scientific literature on cancer suggesting that sugar *causes* cancer. But it does seem that it may accelerate some cancer types.
Consuming excess sugar can cause the body to produce, not only more insulin, but also human growth factor hormones. Those hormones may speed the growth of some hormone-sensitive cancers.
Urgelt 4 years ago
That said, I've yet to see anything that would rule out your hypothesis. I think it likely that we do not yet know all the ways that junk food and excessive sweets can harm us.
But we know some of the ways they can harm us, and that's enough information for us to make good personal choices about our diet, I think.
Urgelt 4 years ago
I will keep watching. 5 stars
DominickBlack 4 years ago
Thank you, Dominick.
I do keep track of comments on these older videos, so if something moves you to speak, it will not fall on deaf ears.
Urgelt 4 years ago
sugars are not completely bad plz dont completely kill sugars. they are found naturally in all foods and u really cant get around that.
keyblade9314 4 years ago
Of course. But you get plenty of what your body requires from healthy foods. It's sugar added to industrial foods that is the problem.
Urgelt 4 years ago
Since you were talking about soda, I think I should point out that a new soda company in Seattle has started making all-natural sodas made with stevia. No artificial flavorings, sweeteners, or any other bad stuff. And it tastes great.
Check out Zevia . com
conmanxxx 4 years ago
Wow. These guys are defying the FDA. Hope they get away with it.
Urgelt 4 years ago
Wow... now that's soda I would buy. I just might have to get it soon in case they get caught.
dragonspellz 4 years ago
Thank you Urgelt, for a great video. I've been looking for good info on stevia, and you've been a great help. :)
dragonspellz 4 years ago
I'm glad you found out what you wanted to know, Dragonspellz.
Urgelt 4 years ago
(part II)They assumed that since most folks liked smoked pork, that would sell better. But sales of the glazed hams was something like triple that of smoked. Long story short, over the years food companies realized that adding sugar to anything creates higher sales because sugar is basially addictive.
robtran 4 years ago
Interesting, Robtran. I'm glad you posted this. Sometimes a little historical perspective can clarify a lot. Thanks!
Urgelt 4 years ago
Here's another reason sugar is everywhere. A little over a century ago, when mass canning was just getting underway, one of the big meat packers (Cudahy or Hormel) sent two types of canned ham into the marketplace: Smoked and glazed. (part I)
robtran 4 years ago
Hi, great videos you have.
About stevia: Here in Europe stevia is forbidden, not possible to get anywhere. The European union banded stevia and explained the decision with need of proof that stevia is harmless. But some professors and other experts over here, are working to make "EU" reverse this decision, some of them have received threats.
gemini3534563 4 years ago
Yes. This anti-stevia thing seems to be evidence of broad corruption in governments.
A great deal of money is at stake, of course. Stevia can't be monopolized. Anyone can grow it.
Urgelt 4 years ago
This is great, had to rewatch it.
Pocketafro 4 years ago
Glad you enjoyed it, Pocketafro. Thanks for commenting.
Urgelt 4 years ago
I have heard of stevia myself. Great on celery and in tea for sure. I just wanted to say that your chocolate recipe works great for me. Totally cures the "sugar cravings". Excellent video.
pokerlogic86 4 years ago
I'm very pleased that it worked for you, PL86. Thanks for your comment. :-)
Urgelt 4 years ago
Chocolate more over employs children, frequently without paying them. What a deterioation from the original aims of British Quaker chocolate firms.
MrLMULES 4 years ago
I don't disagree, but it's possible to over-generalize. There are exceptions. Google "fair trade chocolate" and you'll see what I mean.
Urgelt 4 years ago
Thanks.
MrLMULES 4 years ago
sound delicious, Amazing I already have stevia, in liquid drop form
enzyme20056 4 years ago
Chocolate already has a slight bitter undertaste, so stevia seems to harmonize with it. If you can't seem to get the right bitter/sweet ratio, though, you might want to look specifically for a low-bitterness source for your stevia. I've given a source elsewhere in these comments.
Urgelt 4 years ago
you recipe is great! thank you
RyhthmDefined 4 years ago
Glad you liked it!
Urgelt 4 years ago
nice video but could i ask where do you buy your stevia?
cupidkilla 5 years ago
I'm very happy with the stevia sold by Herbal Advantage; Google it. The bitter taste I've run into from other sources is less with the plant they've cultivated. I use the powdered form.
Urgelt 5 years ago
hmmmm i like your tip on making chocolate.
TheREALBoris 5 years ago
I can't believe you were thinking about Stevia! I can get it in my natural health food store locally.
guardrailgirl 5 years ago
Why are you on YouTube? You should have a tv show! By the way, what is your opinion of the Life Extension Foundation?
ThaliumX 5 years ago
My opinion is that getting to 70-75 or so successfully is pretty much a function of diet, toxin and infectious disease avoidance and moderate exercise for most people. Beyond that, our genes tell the body to begin to fail. Genetic research may eventually hold some answers for true life extension (past 85-90 years). I'm skeptical of any other agenda.
Urgelt 5 years ago
The video on Stevia (# 4 in the series) won't play. It starts but 'freezes'. All of the other videos in this series seem to work fine and YouTube generally seems to be working. Just a head's-up
flameburns623 5 years ago
I just now played it all the way through, flameburns623, and it never hesitated. Sometimes YouTube messes up, though, and I have to hit the reload button on a video to get it to play.
Urgelt 5 years ago
I find this so weird to watch!! I'm a walking furnace (it seems) I've weighed the same for 15 years, so I don't really pay attention to what goes in. The chocolate receipy was excellent! Recently I find sweets only taste of sugar so this will be a great alternative
slackdave 5 years ago
I'm glad you're interested, Dave. Perhaps you can let us know how your experience with stevia goes? :-)
Urgelt 5 years ago
Since I just found out about it, it'll take a while till I get round to (I guess). But I hope I will be able to grow it myself. I'll be looking into whether that works in southern europe.
slackdave 5 years ago
ok, I just found out (@ one of fresh & wild's shops) that stevia is illegal to sell in the UK.. some do anyway
slackdave 5 years ago
I've heard it's illegal for stores to sell it in the EU. I'm not sure if it's illegal to import it or possess it.
You might want to check up and see exactly what the law says. It may be legal for you to order some for personal use.
Urgelt 5 years ago
Would adding mint extract to the chocolate recipe be safe you think?
psycofloyd 5 years ago
Yes, also chocolate liqueur, other natural flavorings, healthy nuts like walnuts and almonds, vanilla (not vanillin)... the possibilities are nearly endless.
Urgelt 5 years ago
Mint is perfectly safe and even has medicinal qualities. Just be carefull that there are no artificial additives to the mint extract, like artificial colors. Beware if you see the word "natural flavors" in the ingredients, because that usually means there is some sort of processed additive.
Sorinphyre 5 years ago
Hi there
believe it or not Stevia is illegel in Ireland! I must say, I like what you say about it. I guess I am into healthy eating. Great video.
manudofr 5 years ago
"In 1991, at the request of an anonymous complaint, the United States Food and Drug Administration labeled stevia as an "unsafe food additive" and restricted its import." I guess there would be an economical motive behind that anonymous complaint...
slackdave 5 years ago
I love stevia and I have some growing in my back yard. Stevia also helps control insulin levels, so it's great for diabetics. Have you ever tried agave nectar? This is also a great one for diabetics because the body does not see it as a sugar. Very yummy almost like honey but way thinner and is filled with many antioxidants...if I remember correctly.
claushah 5 years ago
I have *not* tried agave nectar. You've just sent me on a Google hunt. Thanks!
Urgelt 5 years ago
Yes stevia is awesome, I sold it all the time when working at the vitamin shoppe. But they only sold it in little packets for coffee not bulk. I will order from the internet next since I don't work at VS anymore
bangstun 5 years ago
Practice moderation, but enjoy. :-)
Urgelt 5 years ago
damn i was searching so long for that name! Stevia :)
as i have seen a documentation about this plant but i forgot that damn name! i would like to thank u for every information u share with us
u r so cool :)
Justmedoinnothin 5 years ago
I sense "cool" has taken on new meaning, if it now refers to guys as old and geeky as I am. :P
Urgelt 5 years ago
you are great I love this. I'm watching the whole series (so far) FIGHT NOW) IM on #5
thumperings 5 years ago
Thanks, thumperings, and welcome. Holler if you have questions or ideas to share.
Urgelt 5 years ago
umm I meant "right now" sorry laf*
thumperings 5 years ago
You are so right about getting sick from articificial sweetners. I became very ill from eating Neutrasweet and Splenda. Thank you so much for the video. It is very helpful. I have tried stevia before, however when I tried it I found it to be rather bitter. I called the company and they advised me to mix it correctly..which I was..I will need to look for some that is less bitter. But thanks again!
Vanessa :)
vrhodes1982 5 years ago
Thanks for commenting, Vanessa. Read the comments on this video, there's a source mentioned for a brand of stevia that's very low in steviosides (the bitter agent). It's never going to be as purely sweet as sugar, but it's close.
Urgelt 5 years ago
Cola flavored tea... wha?? You sir, are my new hero. I can't wait to try this stevia stuff.
donkeyjune 5 years ago
I wondered if anyone would ask about that. Go here for cola tea: http://www.island-rose.com/ and look for Long Island Tea. They've got some other good teas. Like Rum Vanilla black tea. Mmm.
Urgelt 5 years ago
Ah, your videos have gotten the wrong comments, but believe me, I watched them all thoroughly and in order, YouTube just wouldn't let me comment them chronologically.
PrinceZeris 5 years ago
stevia has a funky taste. I have trouble getting used to it. I have some liquid stevia and it's sitting in my cabinet. It's full of vitamin C and it helps when I get colds though.
shebitch 5 years ago
Try some stevia from here:
http://www.herbaladvantage.com/showproducts.cfm?UUID=CFED5CAC-3048-110B-3BD49BA894CADA3A.08022006&AID=1&CategoryID=1&Ltr=A-Z
It's very low in steviosides, which are responsible for the bitter taste. Buy the powder form.
Urgelt 5 years ago
aaahhhh! Thank you!
shebitch 5 years ago
Urgelt.. I just started watching your videos and I'm very interested in purchasing this stevia sweetener. You just said to buy the powder form, but I noticed there's a white extract powder on here as well. Your powder stevia looked very white, is this the one I should purchase? Thank you so much for this tip.
kynxster 5 years ago
I buy the white extract powder. It's very concentrated, a little goes a long way. But I think all the different forms are good if they're low in steviosides, as is the case with Herbal Advantage.
Tonight, I made a fresh batch of stevia coconut cream dark chocolate, and this time added natural raspberry flavoring. Mmm. Delicious!
Urgelt 5 years ago
Thank you for the very prompt reply, Urgelt! I'm getting quite the (free) education from your videos. I'm very grateful
kynxster 5 years ago
Stevia comes in convenient packets so you can take them with you wherever you go.
healthywater4less 5 years ago
I only drink water in summer and tea in winter (And some coffee ;) ). Never really got into that softdrink thing, maybe because my parents always had some at home, so it wasn't exiting to drink them. I don't use sweeteners in my tea, but I think I'm gonna try that chocolate-recipe, so thanks for sharing.
muserine 5 years ago
Kenny brought up chocolate liquor as a flavor enhancer. I remember now that chocolate liquor is used in most commercial chocolates. Probably it would be good to add to the ingredients I mentioned.
Try just one cup with a tiny bit of stevia. Just try it. :-)
Urgelt 5 years ago
I'll have to do some research on the value of coconut and it's oil. I use Extra Virgin Olive Oil on veggies, sweet potatoes and white potatoes. I also make a homemade pizza with ground flax seeds, avocado, tomato paste and ground garlic on Oat Bran bread. It's possible to eat healthy while still enjoying delicious meals!
KennyWrites 5 years ago