Monk fruits, obtained from a small green vine-cake from a gourd family, are native to the hills of Southeast Asia.
Over the years, there has been a visible change towards a healthy lifestyle. From entire grains to superfoods, various traditional food items have found their way into our kitchen. Along with this, the demand for the option of sugar has increased, and the way the monk is fruit sweetener. A natural sugar option, monk fruit extracts are called 150–250 times sweet compared to regular sugar, yet there is no calorie or carbohydrate. In this article, we look closely on monk fruits and many of its benefits. read on.
What is a monk fruit?
Monk fruits, obtained from a small green vine-cake from a gourd family, are native to the hills of Southeast Asia. It is also known as swingle fruit (Sirratia Grosvenori) or Lo Han Guo. Although this is a relatively new concept globally, the fruit has been part of traditional Chinese medicine for centuries.
The monk fruit is rarely consumed with raw. After cooking, it is dehydrated and processed in a granular powder or syrup, which is later used to sweeten various types of foods and drinks. According to experts, the sweetness of the monk fruit comes from the antioxidant stored within the fruit.
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What is the nutrition profile of monk fruit?
According to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), the monk fruit has very little nutrition profile. It contains mogroSide, a compound known for antioxidants and anti -inflammatory properties. The USDA data shows that the monk provides a serving (0.8G) of the fruit sweetener:
- Zero calorie
- Zero gram protein
- 0.8 grams carbohydrate
- Fat
- No fiber
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Can a monk fruit help to promote weight loss?
Lifestyle coach Digvijay Singh shared that the monk fruit is highly versatile and can be used in any sweet recipe of your choice – including tea, coffee, shake, pastry and even Indian desserts. Since it is sweet compared to sugar, a small amount is required. He explains that this natural sweetener is an ideal option for those on weight loss or fat loss trip. “It helps reduce overall calorie intake,” he says.
Is monk fruit safe for diabetic patients?
Since monk fruits do not have any calories or carbohydrates, it is considered a low glycemic index (GI) food. It suddenly prevents spikes in blood sugar levels, making it a healthy sweetener option for people managing diabetes. However, it is always advisable to consult a healthcare specialist before adding it to your routine.
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Is the monk fruit sweetener safe for daily consumption?
The United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has classified a recognized monk fruit as usually safe (GRAS). This shows that monk fruits can be safely consumed by all including pregnant women and children. However, it is important to be cautious about the commercial or artificial mixtures found in the packed monk fruit sweetness.
Tackway
Monk fruit sweetener can be a great option for those who want to enjoy sweet dishes without feeling guilty. It provides zero calories, no glycemic effects and antioxidant benefits. However, with everything, moderation is necessary.
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About Somdutt SahaExplorer- This is what Somdutt likes to call himself. It is in the context of food, people or places, she craves for everyone, which is to know the unknown. An ordinary Agloan Olio Pasta or Dal-rice and a good film can make his day.