Hives, mostly on my face

I was cutting back on sugar and started drinking a chocolate protein powder with stevia extract in it. I loved the stuff, but got hives on my face within a week. I cut out the powder and they went away, but it took awhile. A couple of months later I tried stevia again, this time in the stevia sweetened powder made by Celestial Seasonings iced tea. Same thing happened, only this time the hives were worse and took longer to go away. The hives seemed to be mostly on my face. I'm bummed because I think it's a great substitute and really loved the taste.

My skin got red bumps.

I made a very strong cup of tea and put three packets of stevia in the tea. During the night, I remember scratching at my face. This morning, I have a rash or red bumps around my mouth down to the jawline on both sides of my mouth. Stevia was the only different thing I consumed. There must be a relationship.

Red patches all over my body

by John W.
(Australia)

Yesterday was shocking, my whole body was full of red patches, the itching was horrible. After a night of bad sleep, it was a bit less. But after drinking a couple cups of tea with stevia, the itching started again. I'm not happy with the situation.

Swollen lips and tongue

by Lisa Krone
(Los Angeles, CA, USA)

I found out the hard way that I was allergic to Stevia. It was only by the process of elimination that I figured out what happened. Stevia is related to the ragweed family. I have terrible seasonal allergies and it's worse when ragweed is in the air. With Stevia, I ingested it. My lips and tongue began to swell and it stayed like that for a week. During the week, I took Benadryl plus my regular allergy medicine. Though big thick lips look sexy, especially in LA, I thought I looked like I had too much collagen injected and the pain was no picnic. Unfortunately, I had a Vitamin Water and I didn't know it was sweetened with Stevia. Now I'm going to look like a Hollywood wife for a week.

Started Swelling Up

I usually use Splenda, but decided to use stevia. I started swelling up, I couldn't move my arms very well due to the swelling. My throat started swelling so I took some antihistamine and that helped a lot. I think Ill go back to Splenda.

It makes me EXTREMELY TIRED, huge fatigue every time I have a stevia drink, Zevia sodas, and Zero vitamin waters.

by Lisa
(Boston, MA)

I'm a very healthy eater, no sugars, mainly vegetables and lean proteins. Stevia drinks are causing very, very extreme fatigue for me...not good.

Itchy body

by Cindy
(Texas)

I have been using Stevia to sweeten my tea and have been drinking the stevia soda. I love them, but I now have been itching all over my body, scalp, ears, arms, legs back, inside my mouth every part of my body. No rash. Could I be allergic to Stevia?

Staff comment: You could be allergic, Cindy. Try eliminating the stevia products from your diet and see if the symptoms go away.

Red, itchy, burning hives

by Sharon
(AL)

I was so excited to try my first package of Truvia. I put the sweetener over some fresh peaches. That excitement didn't last long because I broke out in hives on my face, chest, and back. They were huge on my chest and my face looked like I had a severe case of chicken pox. This rash was itchy and it burned.
Staff comment: Thanks for posting this, Sharon. I haven't used Truvia, but my research found that there are some questionable ingredients that could be causing your reaction. (It may not be the stevia.) For example, the "natural flavors" that are cited as the third ingredient could be MSG, which is a very common allergen. But the FDA doesn't require any further labeling beyond "natural flavors," so we don't know what those could be. My other concern with Truvia is how much they've altered the stevia molecule in order to patent it. Truvia's stevia may be very different from the "pure stevia extract" available online and in natural food stores.

Worst Asthma Attack EVER!

by kasidak
(North Carolina)

My son had the worst asthma attack ever after consuming sweet tea made with stevia. The tea was made by a friend so I am not aware of the exact brand used.

My son has allergic asthma and his symptoms are often delayed after exposure.

Five hours after drinking sweet tea made with stevia my son complained of an "itchy throat". One hour later he was wheezing and began the worst asthma attack of his life thus far. We rushed to the ER where he received breathing treatments on the hour for eight hours.

My son had not been in contact with any of his "normal" triggers that day. He has never complained of itchy throat before, and after doing some research I learned that individuals who have plant / weed/ pollen allergies it is not unusual for them to be allergic to stevia.

Red blotches on my back

by Tom
(Ohio)

I bought a product called "Go Greens" which is dehydrated vegetable powder you mix with water. The powder lists stevia as an ingredient (everything else is claimed to be just vegetables). After using it a few days I noticed I was feeling itchy all over. Then, in the bathroom mirror, I noticed my back was covered with large red blotches.

I gave up the "Go Greens" and problem solved. Too bad. The stuff tasted great.

I got hives on my forehead

by Amanda
(Missouri)

I bought the stevia packets and tried the first one in a cup of tea the first day I tried it. I noticed a half hour later that I had hives on my forehead. (That is a usual reaction for me when I accidentally ingest a dairy product.) I assumed it was from some cookies I had eaten the day before, and wasn't too concerned. The next morning, the hives were going away and I had more stevia in a strawberry sauce I made and poured the sauce over my pancakes. I started to get a headache after I finished eating and started to feel a bit nauseated and my pulse sped up quite a bit, even though I was sitting still. I started feeling itchy in my throat and on my forehead, and I once again had hives on my face.
I have avoided the stevia today and the hives are going away and the itchiness is gone.

Staff comment: Glad you discovered the source of your hives, Amanda. Most stevia packets contain maltodextrin, which is a corn derivative. You state that you are allergic to dairy, so you may also be allergic to corn (it is a common allergen). It may be that it is not the stevia causing this reaction but the maltodextrin. If you want to try stevia again, go for a product that says it's PURE stevia extract, with nothing else. The KAL brand makes a great product like this.

Hive...hives...hives...

by Patti B
(Queeens, NY)

I have already had severe allergic reactions to Equal & a slight reaction to Splenda, with no allergic reaction to Sweet & Low. I recently started to eat Bagel Thins, Sandwich Thins and other bread products that I see (after the purchase) contain stevia. Guess what...hives. Read the labels, manufacturers are adding stevia to products without making BOLD mention on packaging.

Truvia

by Susan
(Chicago)

I reacted to Truvia. Symptoms included initial itching of the palms. An intense itching spread to all - and I mean all - areas of my body. A red rash appeared all over and my tongue also felt swollen.

Raised, warm hives and swollen throat - difficult to breathe

by Denise
(Orlando, FL)

I was on a detox program that required an organic protein meal replacement (with stevia as the sweetener) in the morning. The first day and a half I was fine, and then on Sunday night during dinner I broke out in itchy, raised, warm hives and my throat became swollen. Took two Benadryl and ran for the ER. Tried a different organic protein powder (with stevia) and cut the detox stuff in half the next day - no hives, but swollen throat - more Benadryl. The next day I only tried the organic protein powder and NO detox oils - no hives, but swollen throat. I have been completely off the protein powder for 3 days now and my breathing and throat are finally back to normal.

Elena's comment: Wow--that sounds awful. But be careful of the other ingredients in the protein powder, as one of those may have caused your symptoms. Determining what caused an allergy symptom is tricky because it requires carefully eliminating each possible allergen.

Hives and Stevia?

by Greg
(Duluth, MN, Bear Island)

5 months ago I was diagnosed with type II diabetes. Started drinking Sobe zero and vitamin water zero, both sweetened with stevia. Started later using stevia in the raw in my baking and cereal, oatmeal, ice tea etc. Was also put on metformin, a drug for diabetics. Started to get hives which I had not had for 35 years, (I am 54). Hives got worse and scary, on lips, eye lids, everywhere... worse day there my best guess 120+. I a retired annalist, if you will allow me, a well paid one, good at finding root causes. Jumped to the metformin as the issue as it a side affect, doc and pharmacist agreed to take me off of the drug. 3 weeks later still covered in hives, not the drug. Looked up diabetes and hives on google...one blog, an older post, there the suggestion of stevia. I stopped using any stevia for three days, down to 6-7 or so. Started drinking a Sobe/vitamin water a night, one during the day...now back to 80 hives or so.

With my diabetes issues I have paid off my deductible for the year, going to an allergist for the scratch test on Thursday. Do they test for stevia, for metformin, can without doubt say no. It will be an added cost to your and my insurance premiums with no conclusive result.

The hives have been bad... not just with my comfort. I have locked my doors, not answered my phone, I looked like a leper, have talked like I impaired as I was with my lips so swollen.

I will not say it is the stevia, I will not say it is not. I will say I have not eliminated it like I have now done the diabetic drug metformin. I will reply to any and all about my allergy test and anything else.

Greg

Itchy Facial Skin

by Christine Tynes
(Virginia Beach, VA USA)

My intake of stevia has increased twofold because I am drinking more coffee. I find that on days when I have 4 packs or more, my facial skin becomes very itchy and dry. When I have one - two packs of stevia per day, I do not have that problem.

facial reddness

by Lara
(KY)

I have used the Only Sweet brand of stevia off and on and the last 2 days I drank a cup of tea, then coffee with stevia--broke out with itchy redness from my mouth down my neck. Took me a little while to figure the source, but this website helped. Thanks--too bad, I liked stevia!

Itchy skin and breaking out on my chest, tummy, and back.

by Susan
(Flagstaff, AZ, USA)

When I first started using Stevia, it was fine, then I started putting it in everything all day long. Now after I drink or eat something with Stevia in it, I itch all over. Head, face body, feet. I am breaking out in red bumps. I will try cutting down and it that doesn't work, eliminate it and go back to Sweet n' Low. It may be a question of quantity.

I am using KAL Pure Stevia Extract mostly and in the morning coffee I am adding SweetLeaf English Toffee that does not have alcohol in it.

I will try the elimination diet.

Two year old covered with red splotches

by Amy
(Woonsocket, RI)

My 2-year-old boy started with a red, hivey rash on his belly yesterday, a couple hours after breakfast. The only thing he had that was new to his diet was Trop50 juice which contains Purevia. 24 hours later and the rash has spread to his extremities. The belly and armpit area, where the rash started, is clearing. Otherwise he is red and blotchy everywhere. I am pretty confident that it was the Purevia. The other ingredients in the juice were not new to his diet. We have never used stevia or stevia products before however, so I'm not sure if he had a reaction to the stevia itself or the stevia-containing Purevia.

Elena's comment: I'm so sorry to hear that! I would stay away from anything other than pure stevia extract (like the KAL brand). Purevia contains a lot of other ingredients, many of which could cause an allergic reaction. But some people certainly are allergic to the stevia plant itself. Stevia is in the daisy family, which also includes ragweed, chrysanthemums, marigolds, and many other herbs. So if your son has an allergy to any of these plants, he may also be allergic to stevia itself.

Broke out with a rash that itched and burned

by Linda
(Iowa City, Iowa)

A few days after switching over to stevia and getting away from sugar, I started breaking out in a red, bumpy, itchy, and burning rash. The only thing that I had done differently was to use the white powered stevia to replace sugar in my diet. Going off stevia today and see if it makes a difference.

Elena's comment: Yes, definitely follow up with me and let me know if that's what caused your symptoms. Also, are there any other ingredients listed in the stevia product, or is it pure stevia?

Headache, then hives

I first tried stevia as I started on a candida diet to eliminate thrush. Very quickly afterward I had a terrible headache and felt quite ill. That evening my stomach and back were insanely itchy and I broke out in hives all over my torso. I have never had hives before. Elena's comment: That sounds awful. Although you may definitely be allergic to stevia (it is a member of the daisy family, which includes ragweed and chrysanthemums), check the stevia product's ingredients. Many stevia products contain allergy-causing ingredients other than stevia.

Itchy HUGE Hives, Stomach Pain

by Cindy
(Long Island, NY)

I've used stevia in the new Crystal Light with no ill effects (the label says "rebiana - a derivative of stevia"). Recently, I purchased and planted a stevia plant and just picked my first leaf Saturday. Made a smoothie with almost a whole leaf, first of all the smoothie was way too sweet, and within 6 hours I had huge hives all over my neck and shoulders. They were much worse the next morning and I needed a prednisone shot. Now, three days later I made a cup of tea and put a stevia leaf in as the sweetener (didn't actually eat the leaf this time). Woke up early this morning with the hives and itching, this time all over my neck, chest, and arms. Both times I've also experienced bad stomach pain, not cramps but actually pain and soreness. Since I've changed nothing else in my diet or lotion usage, I guess no more stevia for me but I am so bummed, I have this beautiful plant flourishing in my organic garden and now I have to give it away!

Hives & burning skin on chest, shoulders, face, behind ears; swollen tongue

by Hill
(Indiana)

I used 2 packets of Truvia (stevia) in otherwise black coffee (a brand of coffee I've had many times) before bed -- woke up an hour later with serious hives, burning skin, and swollen mouth and throat.

Be careful with this stuff if you have any plant allergies (ragweed, aloe, etc).

Arms itch like crazy...ears itch like crazy

Started using stevia...arms itch, ears itch...awful

Hard bumps from Truvia

I started using Truvia about 10 days ago. Three days in, I developed what I thought was terrible acne on my chin and upper lip. The fact that 5 of these spots showed up at the same time should have clued me in to a reaction (I'm prone to allergic reactions). After reading several of these posts, I'm convinced that my sore, red, blister-like bumps are a Truvia allergy - it is the only thing different in my environment in the last 10 days. Taking Zyrtec and stopping the Truvia!

Itchy mouth and throat

by Tess
(Baltimore)

I have been using Truvia as my sole replacement for my sugar in my tea or coffee and I noticed that it seemed that my mouth and tonsils were always itchy. It got so bad that I would take a toothbrush and brush the roof of my mouth to scratch and ended up bleeding. I thought I may be allergic to the other sweeteners in Truvia, so I switched to Stevia in the Raw and my reactions were as bad as ever. My toothpaste also had stevia in it so I replaced that. I had itchy eyes and congestion as well, so at first I thought it was seasonal allergies (which I have never had before) but I have been off of stevia for 12 hours and I feel great! Just sugar for me now!

Hives and red, itchy patches on arms and legs

by Lainey
(Twinsburg, Ohio, USA)

Continuing with my sugar-free diet, I began to use "Stevia in the Raw" as an alternative sweetener to decrease my gastric discomfort caused by my Splenda use. At first I didn't recognize my flu-like symptoms as abnormal due to my numerous food allergies that already persist, but as I began to eliminate wheat, dairy, and other common allergens, the stevia remained in my diet.

In the last two weeks, I have experienced extreme eczema with the increase in temperature, and today I have broken out in hives TWICE within 15 minutes of consuming the white powdered stevia. The reaction can only be calmed with the use of antihistamines. Stevia is next on the chopping block in my diet!

Major Rash

by Raelyn
(Wellington, CO USA)

Just a few days after starting to use stevia, I broke out in hives, welts, and hot itchy skin. Started on different parts of my body which then spread. The brand I used was "Stevia Extract in the Raw". Its ingredients were stevia extract and maltodextrin.

ITCHING OF ENTIRE BODY AND HIVES ON MY SCALP

by BEV
(EMERALD ISLE NC)

MY FIRST AND ONLY USE OF TRUVIA CAUSED ITCHING AND HIVES. I USED A SCANT TEASPOON IN MY TEA AND WITHIN AN HOUR I EXPERIENCED INTENSE ITCHING, FLUSHING, AND QUARTER-SIZE HIVES ON MY SCALP. I HAD A STEVENS-JOHNSON SYNDROME REACTION IN THE PAST AND AM AFRAID TO TRY STEVIA AGAIN.

Red 'angry' rash and intolerable itch

by Andrea
(Cairns QLD, Australia)

The "Stevia Sweet" was the only thing NEW that I could think of that I had added to my diet. I tried a teaspoon in my tea and a day later baked with it. I started with small red spots which looked like small insect bites, but they were only on my right calf. A few days later the rash had developed, red angry raised welts and VERY itchy. It covered the right and left legs from the ankle to the knee. Antihistamines and cortisone and steroid creams did not seem to help much. Then it developed on my right and left forearms, from the elbows to the wrists. It is now 2.5 weeks later and after 2 courses of chinese herbs the redness has subsided and the itch is easing. It helps to stay in the air conditioned room as well; heat makes the itch worse.

The itchies have now developed on my tummy and upper body but I am hoping it is only on the small scale of itchiness and redness.

The product I was using was "Hermesetas - Stevia Sweet". It consists of Maltodextrin 53%, Fructofibres (Inulin and Oligofructose) and Steviol Glycosides 5%.

I broke out in red bumps across chest, then sides, arms, and legs

by JZee
(Strathmere, NJ)

I took me weeks to isolate the source of my problem but it turned out to be the stevia sweetener packets I was putting in my coffee. Unfortunately I threw out the packaging so I can't give you the details but this is the white sweetener version of the product in individual packets that say "Stevia" on them. My allergic reaction was delayed and started out slow at first. My red spots didn't really fully bloom until week 3 or 4 using the stevia. Now, in addition to the red bumps, I've got fever blisters on my lower lip which is pretty typical for me when I have an allergic reaction to food. I ingested my last packet about 48 hours ago and the red spots have begun to fade and stopped spreading. Another unusual detail about my allergic reaction to the stevia is that my red bumps did not itch.

Elena's comment: Wow, JZee, those look awful. I'm glad you finally isolated the cause of those bumps, and that they are getting better now that you've stopped using this product. Quite often, those stevia packets include a filler such as maltodextrin, which is a corn derivative. There are many reports of allergic reactions to maltodextrin, and the people had very similar reactions to yours. Please keep us posted if you learn anything further about this reaction. Be well!

Severe swelling; had to take antihistamine!

(California)

Trying to cut back on sugar, I tried less than half a teaspoon of granulated stevia in my tea. My left hand and arm became stiff and numb, just as it did when bit by a wasp a few years ago. I took diphenhydramine (Benadryl), and it's subsiding, but now I can't drive anywhere for 8 hours.

Elena's comment: This sounds serious. I'm glad the Benadryl is working, though. If you feel any tightening in your throat, seek emergency care as soon as possible. When you're feeling better, can you provide more information on the product name plus any other ingredients that are listed on the label? That will help others avoid the same experience. Also, are you allergic to anything in the daisy/ragweed family? Stevia is a member of that plant family.

Itchy Rash on Back & Arms

by Jo Ann
(Racine, WI)

My entire back itches with a rash, and my arms have small, colorless, itchy bumps. The only new addition to my diet is stevia. I've been food-sensitivity tested before, but I've not ever had this symptom. I used Truvia brand stevia, so it could be an allergy to it OR reaction to an additive they use like erythritol or "natural" flavor. I stopped using Truvia, but then I started drinking Crystal Lite Fitness which uses rebiana (stevia) and got the same reaction. I just discovered they use Truvia brand. Now I'm going to try pure stevia, hoping my reaction is not to it but to an additive. Oh, the battle to consume healthy, safe, sweet food! Is it worth it?

Elena's comment: Yeah, it's definitely worth it. But you really have to stay away from the mass-produced, processed products that you find in a typical grocery store (like Truvia and Truvia-sweetened products). I highly recommend the KAL brand of pure stevia extract. Please let me know how you do with the pure stevia.

Throat swelling

I felt a burning on my tongue after just a tiny taste of stevia, thought it was just an aftertaste, but after eating the dessert I made with it my throat became swollen and I had difficulty swallowing.

Elena's comment: Wow--that sounds like anaphylactic shock, which can be life threatening. Are you allergic to anything in the daisy family? (Stevia is a member of the daisy family, which includes ragweed and chrysanthemums.) I hope you sought medical attention when you experienced these symptoms.

Members Mark Stevia

The first stevia product I used was from Trader Joe's. I loved it and had no side effects. When it ran out, I began using some Member's Mark brand stevia and within a few days I had itchiness over my entire body. I could feel some bumpiness, but mostly just an itchiness and some burning. I am going to discontinue using the stevia and see if the itching stops.

Nauseous and Weak

Each time I have stevia, I feel sick to my stomach and very weak. Through process of elimination, I'm sure it's the stevia, which is a big disappointment since it was definitely my favorite sugar substitute. :(

Panic Attacks and Digestive Disorders

by Rose
(Asheville, NC, USA)

I discovered an intolerance to stevia after using it for about a year. I was experiencing panic attacks, closing of my throat (plum pit syndrome), and general un-health. I went through a variety of ER visits with heart palpitations and suffered through a gastroscopy with a video tube down my throat. Once I put the pieces in place and felt great when I wasn't drinking coffee for about a week. No stevia, no panic attacks! This applies to the stevia with additives and pure stevia from health food stores. It's a fairly rare condition it appears.

Uncomfortable in My Own Skin!

by Christine Mooney
(Edmond, OK)

I started using stevia as a sweetener about two years ago, but only in coffee or tea, which for me, is pretty much only a weekend thing, so I had NO REACTION then.

My "itchy skin" experience happened a bit later...I had been a "diet coke in the morning" kind of gal for most of my life, but then eventually became better educated about food, and being new to my health/spiritual journey -- wanted OFF ASPARTAME for life, so I sought out Zevia SODA'S and started a new devoted addiction to them.

It was a beautiful relationship - at first. I'm telling ya, I had found my soda nirvana.

At last, I was able to get my diet coke "fix" only now, it was all safe and natural in every way, and I quickly ramped up from one a morning, to two and even sometimes three Zevia Cola's to start my day. I was in heaven and telling all my friends and family about it. I even talked my husband into seeing if he could purchase their stock! Of course, he couldn't, since they're not publicly traded.

Then, slowly began this itching...albeit it took a few months to really ramp up to the point that I started losing sleep over the intensity of it. But it is everywhere! My scalp, face, chin, neck, behind ears, inside ears, shoulder blades, chest, armpits, elbows, wrists, abdomen, waist, back, down my legs, thighs, behind the knees, ankles... As I said - everywhere.

I couldn't figure out what it was. I even became worried I had somehow contracted scabies! Although, I had no real rash anywhere. It was weird!

So, I did what any logical person does when their life is turned upside down due to itching. I went to see a dermatologist. The problem was - again- I had no real rash anywhere except a raised redness from all my self inflicted scratching. The Dr. thoroughly inspected my body's skin and quickly said, "It's NOT scabies, I don't see a rash, it's typical winter dry, itchy skin."

So, upon his advice, I started dead sea salt baths almost nightly, applying the prescribed lotion and hoped for the best. Nothing seemed to be helping. Days and weeks went by, and the itch continued on...

The only thing that would seem to help me sleep without ripping into myself scratching was taking Benadryl. This told me something! I was telling my immune system to calm down over something it clearly didn't like, and I didn't like the idea of deliberately "dumbing down" my body's innate wisdom with an antihistamine!

That's when I knew I had to find out what I had changed over the two to three month timespan of when this itchiness started and worsened...

The ONLY thing that I had changed (I'm a 42 year old creature of habit - so it was easy to spot!) was the Zevia SODA!

Believe me, I don't like pointing the finger at my new favorite morning beverage, but I have a very strong suspicion that it is the culprit. I am now going cold turkey off of this, and going to see if I feel better, and promise to post back in a week or so. I want my sleep back so bad, and I hope I have indeed identified the problem right, but I will be sad in a way too, to see my Zevia go IF I am correct in my assumptions. I had a feeling it was all too good to be true! ;(

I know I don't have solid proof yet, as I have not yet seen my itch subside, as I just found this thread and still need to test this theory. But allow me to just say, that I already put the two together in my head BEFORE finding evidence of others on the internet. That tells me something, and I have learned over the years to trust my gut hunches and intuition above a lot of things in life...

I sure hope this helps somebody else whose itching to death and can't figure out why. We all take the peaceful existence of being in our own skin for granted, until something comes along that disturbs us to such degree. I will never again take it for granted. ;)

As stated above...I promise to return with an honest account of what transpires....

Pain and swelling from ears to throat

I used liquid stevia for four days. About the third day I felt like I was getting a sore throat. It continued the fourth day, and I also got a lump feeling in my throat. The fifth day my ears also started hurting. I felt I was getting symptoms from my ears, glands around neck, throat, and upper esophagus. I quit the liquid stevia on day five and tried stevia packets on day 6. I had the same reaction. I quit using stevia and got better until about two weeks ago. I think it may have caused permanent damage.

Elena's comment: That experience sounds awful. Stevia is in the ragweed family, which many people are allergic to. Also, some people who are allergic to one thing may also have allergies to other things. So the continued symptoms that you're experiencing may be due to an allergy to some other food...you may want to consider having a food allergy test(s) done to rule that out.

Itchy, red patches

by Angela Miller
(Myrtle Beach SC)

Found on Web MD you can be allergic to stevia sweetener if you are allergic to ragweed. During the months of March and April I am sooooo allergic to the pollen that foods cause me to react as well. All I have had so far today is tea made with stevia and I am itching so bad I don't know what to do. I have already taken two Benadryls. Sometimes science isn't always right. I know from personal experience. I had the allergy tests done at a tune of $2,300. They came back I'm not allergic to anything, yet wheat, rice, peanuts, cranberries, and milk will send me to the ER with anaphylatic reactions. Trust your body, don't always assume those tests are right.

Hypersensitive skin, hives. Vitamin Water and SoBe zero calorie.

by Rhett Weber
(Westport, WA)

A couple days after my first SoBe, I developed a mild itch, but the slightest scratch from clothing or anything else would cause the area to welt and get hives. Pretty sure it is the stevia. I have not had any allergies since I was a child and had allergy shots to get rid of them.

Badly disappointed, really liked the sweetener. Fought about a month now to figure out if that was the problem. Very sure of it now, but it takes about a week for the symptoms to go away for me.

I will upload some pics if it flares again tonight, looks pretty awful but not super painful.

Eyes got red and itchy

by Sheri Baioa
(Milwaukee, Wisconsin)

I've been using liquid stevia for a couple months now and I noticed that after I drink coffee with the stevia in I would develop red puffy lumps under my eyes then they would begin to itch so much I had to take a Benadryl to stop the itching. Within a couple days, underneath my eyes would get calloused then begin to peel. This was happening 2-3 times a week. I stopped the stevia and the itchiness went away.

sinus/ migraine type headache, throat pain, ear ache

The next day after using Now brand certified organic stevia extract powder (other ingredients: none) in coffee I woke up with a sinus/migraine type headache, throat pain, and earache. I continued to use stevia for a week not thinking the symptoms could be linked to the stevia. After learning allergic response to using stevia could happen in people sensitive to ragweed, which I am, I discontinued use of stevia and took benadryl, replacing stevia again with Splenda. Symptoms are slowly going away and it has been 3 days since I stopped using stevia.

Stomachache, foggy-headed, weak

I put Stevia in my coffee, and realized (since when I'm out and Stevia isn't around I don't use it in my coffee and therefore don't have this sort of reaction) that I get nauseous, foggy-headed and weak, and my head hurts.

Burning sensation in throat

by TeaElf
(San Francisco)

I use SweetLeaf brand "stevia clear" liquid.

If I have stevia in baked goods, it's not a problem. But if I take it in tea, coffee, or lemonade (none of which are allergens to me), I get an uncomfortable burning sensation in my throat and on the back of my tongue. Obviously I stick to baked goods now. : )

Elena's comment: That's interesting, TeaElf. Perhaps the high heat of baking inactivates the compounds in stevia that cause an allergic reaction. It's great that you can still use stevia in baked goods! There may be some other alternatives you can try in your drinks, such as erythritol or lo han. Check out Vitacost.com or iHerb.com to see what they offer with either of these ingredients (at iHerb, use the code LEN208 to get $5 off your first order). I've also been using palm sugar for a while now (I'm allergic to cane sugar), and I love it. It has a really low glycemic index, and tastes great.

My throat tingles/itches and my ear canals started to hurt (like they do when I have seasonal allergies)

by Rene
(Millsap, TX)

I was so excited to finally have stevia extract powder available in my area. Now I'm glad I only bought a small box of packets.

I don't drink soda often. My beverage of choice is filtered water with a wedge of squeezed lemon and a packet of sweetener. I switched from Equal to a stevia brand. I have noticed over the 2 weeks that I've been using stevia, my throat feels a little swollen and irritated and my ear canals begin to hurt, like I have an ear infection or my airborne allergies are active.

I have discontinued use of stevia and returned to Equal and my symptoms have disappeared.

Hives

(Colorado)

I started using Spring Valley Stevia with maltodextrin several months ago thinking it more natural than Splenda. I went through a box of 100 packets with no problems. Suddenly, for the first time in my life, I started to break out in hives on my forehead, scalp, and upper shoulders. They itched and I looked terrible. I sneezed throughout the day and my eyes were slightly puffy.

My suspicion was it may be our dogs that were causing the reaction because, with winter temperatures, the windows were closed. I went so far as replacing some carpet with laminate thinking it would reduce the dander.

I then went on a business trip for a week and noticed my allergies went away. The hives also began to decrease albeit slowly. Yesterday I felt like I was finally getting over it. I made a pot of tea and added a pack of stevia. Last night the hives came back and my sinuses were nearly closed all night.

Woohoo! I am glad I figured it out. My wife would have killed me if we had got rid of her beloved dogs! Good bye Stevia.

Hives with "stevia in the raw"

Used stevia in the raw for 3 mornings and 4 cups of tea. Had hives erupt on my forehead and in my hair, and on both legs. Lasted for 4 days, and blasted with Benadryl. The rash on my legs was incredibly painful. After the hives on my head settled down, they peeled.

Swollen lips and tongue

by Janet
(Florida)

I tried Crystal Light Pure Fitness today and after about 15 minutes I got a headache, my tongue felt furry, and my lips swelled. I just took a Benadryl. I will not drink Crystal Light Pure Fitness again, that's for sure.

Elena's comment: Your symptoms sound really uncomfortable, Janet. There are many ingredients in Crystal Light Pure Fitness, so your symptoms may not be due to the stevia. According to the Crystal Light website, the following ingredients are in Crystal Light Pure Fitness:
EVAPORATED CANE JUICE, CITRIC ACID, CALCIUM LACTATE, SUGAR, CONTAINS LESS THAN 2% OF NATURAL FLAVOR, REBIANA (TRUVIA BRAND SWEETENER), POTASSIUM CITRATE, MAGNESIUM OXIDE, SODIUM CITRATE, SALT, OLEORESIN TURMERIC (FOR COLOR).
From my research about Truvia (the sweetener that contains stevia), there are some dubious ingredients that could very well be causing your allergic reaction. Specifically, the "natural flavors" that they cite as the third ingredient in Truvia could be monosodium glutamate (MSG), a very common allergen. But the FDA doesn't require any further labeling beyond "natural flavors," so we're left guessing what those could be. My other concern with Truvia is how much they've altered the stevia molecule in order to obtain their patent on it. The stevia in Truvia may be very different from the "pure stevia extract" available in health food stores.

On the other hand, your reaction may be a classic allergic reaction. Stevia is a member of the ragweed family, and many people are allergic to plants in this family.

Lupus outbreak on skin

by Peggy Gardiner
(Modesto, CA)

I have skin reactive lupus which is brought on by allergies I already have and stay away from. My latest outbreak occurred about four days after using the Stevia white powder in tea. After reading about Stevia it seems as if you have an allergy to ragweed you should not use it. I do have an allergy to ragweed. I must say for the first time I am experiencing a lot of itching and burning which I have not experienced before.

RED facial skin - break outs and styes!

I started off with just a small amount of stevia...being hypoglycemic since my teens, sugar is a big no-no. I started using more recently, as I had used up my Splenda. I got a stye in my left eye, then a second one. They did NOT go away, for over a month. My face started getting red, and redder, and then over the last month breaking out with it.
My clue finally came, when I developed hives in my palms. I knew, then, I was dealing with an allergy. After 2 days off of stevia, my eye is much improved, and my skin is not flushing and extremely dry. (I've always had oily skin so quite a surprise to dry out like a desert!) I would strongly urge others with any skin reactions, to discontinue use and see if this is the cause.

Rashes, blisters, sores

Used Pure Stevia Extract on my husband's cereal and fruits. He has developed an eczema problem, rashes, small blisters, and sores on arms and legs. Served him fruits today with drops of stevia and he started scratching his arm soon afterward.

Itchy Bumps on My Arms

My dermatologist told me the large pink bumps on my arms (only located in a small patch between my elbows and inner creases of arms) was definitely an allergic reaction to food or drink. By the process of elimination I found that stevia (brand name: Stevita) is the cause. I experimented and found out that right after consuming stevia (1/2 teaspoon in a cup of tea) my rash would itch intensely. I'm disappointed because I love stevia.

Well, never say never...I was admitted to the ER last night

by Me
(Calgary)

I have taken stevia liquid extract which contains some alcohol, and I have taken ECHINACEA from Webber naturals.

I swelled up like a balloon or lobster, had trouble breathing...so don't try it on / with sensitive persons like allergy prone people, kids or with the elderly without being prepared for the worst. Wanted to have it for my Grandpa who is diabetic, but thanks to this ER experience, no thanks after all.

Hives and migraines

by Karen
(IN)

I started using Stevia in the Raw as an alternative to Splenda. When I use it I have terrible migraines and break out in hives all over. When I stop it they all go away. Too bad too, I really like stevia, but I just can't tolerate it.

Triggered a migraine

That about covers it. Starbucks really ought to list when they sweeten things with Stevia instead of cane sugar.

Elena's comment: I completely agree. Based on the nutrition information on their website, they do provide information about common allergens in their products, but they don't consider stevia a common allergen. I called customer service, and they said that the Lite Frappuccino base does contain stevia, but that is the only drink that contains it. I'm sorry that you experienced a migraine, but I appreciate you noting this on my website, in the hopes that others can avoid the same experience.

Itchy head at first and then hives on different parts of body almost every night

by Natalia
(Los Angeles, CA)

I have been using Stevia liquid for a long time - at least several years in my hot tea, and I drink a lot of green tea - about 5 cups a day. Never noticed anything bad until I believe I started using sweet leaf stevia powder which is crazily concentrated and you only need a tiny amount to sweeten a beverage. I attributed the hives and itchiness to a lots of stress but now the stress is gone and I still have no relief from the itchiness on different parts of the body and hives and red itchy bumps when I epilate my legs (which never happened before). I stopped Stevia today and I really miss the taste of it in my tea. I really want the itch to go away - I guess we suddenly can develop allergy to something that we have been using for several years. I hope that I have found the culprit - i really don't want to live with the itch like this - i don't feel normal in my skin. Pls comment if you have a similar experience. Thanks.

Extreme Fatigue

I had green leaf stevia for the first time today. Shortly afterward I got extremely tired, and didn't even have enough energy to stand. I had a class to go to, and instead had to stay home and rest in bed for a few hours. The brand I used was Nativas Naturals. It was organic and 100% stevia.

I got welts on my face that are pretty hard and red.

by Irma
(Suffolk, VA)

I believe I am allergic to Truvia. I had my first packet in coffee this morning and a little while later I felt a hard welt on my face. I went and looked in the mirror and my face had several places. I had one spot on my chest. I got some Benadryl and it is helping.

Elena's comment: Thanks for posting this, Irma. I haven't tried Truvia yet, but from my research, there are some dubious ingredients that could very well be causing your allergic reaction. So it may NOT be the stevia that's causing your reaction. First of all, the "natural flavors" that they cite as the third ingredient could be MSG, a very common allergen. But since the FDA doesn't require any further labeling beyond "natural flavors," we're left guessing what those could be. The second concern with Truvia is how much they've altered the stevia molecule in order to patent it. The stevia in Truvia may be very different from the "pure stevia extract" available in health food stores.

Rash on hands, burning rash and swelling on face, eyes, and neck

by Mom
(Rochester, NY)

While boiling water for tea last night, my 16 year old son opened a packet of Truvia I had bought recently and poured it directly into his mouth. He has never had it before.

This morning he woke up with a SEVERELY swollen face, neck, and hands. I had to keep him home from school. He complains that it feels itchy and hot and he is terribly uncomfortable. He looks like a monster! Poor guy! We've been giving him Benadryl all day but it isn't working too well. Also gave him an Rx anti-inflammatory and sitz baths with baking soda, and also he's been putting hydrocortisone cream on it. We changed his sheets and made him prop up in bed to allow the edema to drain from his face. It still looks pretty bad and it's been all day. I can't give him any more Benadryl until tomorrow.

My son is gluten intolerant and he eats pretty much the same diet every single day. We talked through his entire day to figure out the culprit. He did not try anything different yesterday, other than the late night Truvia packet. We are convinced that it is the Truvia.

Diarrhea

When I drink Zevia I get watery diarrhea. Why?

Elena's comment: That's your body telling you that it doesn't like Zevia, so listen to your body and stop consuming it. Zevia sodas contain stevia, to which some people are allergic (the diarrhea could be a symptom of allergy). Zevia sodas also contain erythritol, a sugar alcohol that's similar to the better-known xylitol. Sugar alcohols can cause bloating, gas, and diarrhea in some people.