Monk fruit sweetener is a natural sweetener that is 100 to 250 times sweeter than sugar. It contains zero calories and is thought to have antioxidant properties.
Monk fruit sweetener, or monk fruit extract, has been around for decades but has recently grown in popularity since it’s become more readily available.
Read on for more information about what monk fruit sweetener is, the possible health benefits, and whether it is safe.
Monk fruit sweetener is extracted from monk fruit.
The monk fruit is also known as luo han guo or “Buddha fruit.” It’s a small, round fruit grown in Southeast Asia.
This fruit has been used for centuries in traditional Chinese medicine, and it
The sweetener is created by removing the seeds and skin of the fruit and crushing it to collect the juice, which is then dried into a concentrated powder.
However, unlike in most fruits, the natural sugars in monk fruit aren’t responsible for its sweetness. Instead, it gets its intense sweetness from unique antioxidants called mogrosides.
During processing, mogrosides are separated from the fresh-pressed juice. Therefore, monk fruit sweetener does not contain fructose or glucose.
Because this extract may be
Monk fruit extract is suitable for use as:
- a sweetener
- an ingredient in food and drinks
- a flavor enhancer
- a component of sweetener blends
Monk fruit sweetener has been claimed to aid weight loss.
Since it contains zero calories, many people suggest that it can reduce your total calorie intake. However, it’s relatively new to the market, and no studies have assessed its effects on weight.
However,
Studies show that mogrosides, which are the main components of monk fruit, have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
For these reasons, they may offer various health benefits.
Antioxidant effects
Mogroside extracts have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, as they inhibit certain harmful molecules and help prevent damage to your DNA.
That said, no human studies have confirmed these benefits.
Anticancer properties
Some research suggests that mogrosides inhibit cancer cell growth.
A 2022 study with mice found that the mogrosides suppressed lung cancer cell growth. However, human-based studies are necessary to better understand this.
Antidiabetes properties
Since monk fruit sweetener has zero calories or carbs, it will not raise blood sugar levels. Therefore, it may be a good option for people with diabetes.
A rat study from 2019 found that mogroside V, the main mogroside in monk fruit extract, improved fasting glucose and insulin sensitivity. Studies in humans are necessary to better understand this potential.
As monk fruit extract is often mixed with other sweeteners, you should carefully examine product labels before making a purchase.
Monk fruit sweetener is relatively new to the market, it doesn’t have many studies examining its effects.
While there are currently no known side effects of monk fruit sweetener, it is best to consume it in moderation.
Speak with a doctor for advice on the safety of monk fruit sweetener based on your individual circumstances.
Monk fruit sweetener is derived from the juice of monk fruit. It is around 100 to 250 times sweeter than sugar.
Monk fruit sweetener may help with weight management, and it also has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Although mogroside extracts from monk fruit may have some health benefits, more research is necessary.
It’s currently not clear what dosage you would need to experience any of these health benefits.
Speak with a doctor for more information about monk fruit sweetener and other alternatives to sugar.
