Stevia: can be healthy, can be confusing!

My mom recently came to visit and, as we were sharing a can of Zevia, alerted me to the "pregnancy risks" of stevia, a sweetener I love.  I had never heard that the herb is used as a birth control, so my interest was piqued.

Trying to find information on the web was a bit ridiculous, as are most subject matters when it comes to health, food, and pregnancy.  Finally, I emailed the makers of Zevia, since their soda is probably my biggest source of stevia.  In the quotes below are some of the salient points from their email.  I really appreciate their attention to this matter and hope it helps if you are searching for some clarification on these possible risks.

Spoiler spoiler: Zevia is safe to drink when pregnant!

"First and foremost, Zevia is safe. However, we would suggest you consult with your physician if there are any specific concerns about an ingredient or daily serving quantities. Always better to be safe! 

The stevia used in Zevia has not changed for over 2 years, since the FDA granted “Generally Recognized as Safe” status (aka GRAS) to a high-purity form of stevia extract called Rebaudioside A (aka “Reb A” or “rebiana”) – extracted from the stevia leaf – after extensive studies. Any food or beverage manufacturer who wishes to legally sell a product that is not classified as a ‘supplement’ must use a GRAS-approved form of high-purity stevia extract. 

We recently changed the words describing our stevia ingredient on our cans to clarify this ingredient to our consumers, and to better align with FDA regulations.  

The supplier of our stevia is an expert in natural processing methods to generate high-purity, great-tasting Reb A, and we are happy to pass the benefit of the deep expertise on to our consumers!

We would definitely recommend Zevia Ginger Ale and Ginger Root Beer, made with real Ginger Extract, to calm and soothe any upset tummies. ... In fact, 10 of our 15 flavors are caffeine free, giving you a little something for every craving.

A few of the distinguishing factors that make Zevia a smarter choice for expectant mothers include:

• Zevia is all natural, zero calories, and sweetened with stevia. 

• Zevia contains no artificial sweeteners.

• Stevia was FDA Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) certified in February 2008 and consumption is growing rapidly. 

• Stevia and Erythritol have no caloric value or effect on blood glucose levels. Very important for anyone trying to watch their sugar intake. Erythritol’s high digestive tolerance distinguishes it from other polyols.

• Zevia soda contains no phosphoric acid, a typical preservative used in mainstream carbonated soft drinks and has been known to deplete calcium from bones and teeth. Instead, Zevia use’s only natural acids - tartaric acid found in grapes and fumaric acid found in mushrooms. In addition to providing a natural preservative, both have additional positive properties such as containing a variety of antioxidants.

For more information pregnancy and the use of sweeteners please click on the following link: http://americanpregnancy.org/pregnancyhealth/artificialsweetener.html "