On Tue, 26 Sep 2000 01:40:28 -0700 Mike MacLeod <[log in to unmask]> writes: > Well, there's stevia. I read on the net that there is considerable variation in the taste of commercial preparations. That's good news, because the stuff I got at Whole Foods is pretty bad. Not only is it bitter, but I detest the alcohol reek. Can you recommend another > brand?A simple experiment of cooking a bit with butter and maple flavoring and vanilla and ground pecans yielded a couple of tablespoons of a wonderfully rich, nutty treat. But whatever else it does, it caused a moderate insulin release after I ate it, either from the sympathetic reaction mentioned by the Drs. Eades, or from innate Frankensugarness.>> For stevia, the best I have found so far is in bulk white powder. I actually mix mine with splenda. It is much cheaper in bulk as well. Basically, no nmae brand. Stay away from NOW brand. tastes nasty. Now if you just want to sweeten tea or coffee............ I buy the green chopped leaves, make a pouch out of a coffee filter or cheese cloth and place in with my pitcher of tea or coffee. As for your insulin reaction, that I feel is due to the sweetness alone of Splenda. In Anchell's book, it states any kind of sweetener will slow down weightloss. He also states he does not know why. In theory alone, I think it is due to a trickery of the body. If the body TASTES something sweet, insulin is released. Just like some people react to the smell alone of sweets or breads and such. Any takers on my thoughts? I am far from an expert. BTW, I used to buy my splenda via internet, at http://splenda.com or sucralose.com under $20 for 6 boxes including postage. ......... Now I can get it at Smart & Final for $3 a box. I still use it for my kids and hubby to make cookies and such. *cookies made with almond flour* =o] Trish