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In 2023, a few superfoods are anticipated to grow in popularity. Other nutrient-dense and functional foods will also become more popular as people prioritise their health and wellness. Monk fruit is one of those that has attracted a lot of people's attention. It is a calorie-free addition that does not meddle with the body's sugar counts or shoot them up. Monk fruit does not influence blood glucose levels despite being about 250 times sweeter than table sugar. Both low-carbohydrate and high-carbohydrate diets can make use of it. As a natural sugar alternative, its use is anticipated to rise.
What is monk fruit?
Lo han guo is another name for monk fruit. It's a little green melon endemic to south China. It was named for the monks who were instrumental in its early cultivation centuries ago. Its health benefits are valued by traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). Monk fruit extract used to make sweeteners comes from dried fruit. The extract has no calories or carbs, is 150–250 times sweeter than table sugar, and does not cause blood sugar levels to rise. Artificial sweeteners can have adverse side effects, such as bloating, gas, or allergic responses. Controversial artificial sweeteners include Equal and Splenda. There are no known negative consequences from monk fruit sweeteners.
Keeps weight under check
Monk fruit is an excellent alternative for those watching their weight because it has no calories, carbohydrates, or fat. You can significantly reduce your calorie and carb intake by replacing table sugar daily with monk fruit sweetener. Only consume monk fruit products free of added sugars. Weight watchers who are looking for refined sugar replacement can consider it. Monk fruit is better than stevia. According to research, the mogrosides in monk fruit extract have substantially more potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant capabilities.
Monk fruits growing on vines, Image Source: 123rf
Diabetes-friendly
Monk fruit is safe as a sweetener. Mogrosides, a type of naturally occurring chemical, give monk fruit its sweetness. Since it doesn't raise blood sugar, people with diabetes can normally use it without risk. However, foods and beverages sweetened with monk fruit might also contain added sugars and other substances that raise the number of calories and carbs or impair insulin sensitivity. Read the labels of products using monk fruits.
Anti-inflammatory
Monk fruit has been utilised in TCM for generations, according to a 2011 study. This use mainly aimed to prepare hot beverages that soothe sore throats and lessen phlegm. According to claims, the mogrosides in the fruit are anti-inflammatory, may help prevent cancer, and maintain stable blood sugar levels.
Ripe and dried monk fruits, Image Source: Shutterstock
Fights infection
It may be difficult for doctors to treat an infection brought on by microbes that are resistant to common medications. One of the causes of these diseases is the abuse of antibiotics. Monk fruit may have antibacterial capabilities, according to studies. Likewise, many claims that monk fruit can combat candidiasis. Other physiological systems, such as the digestive system, may also be impacted by this yeast, which can cause painful oral thrush.
In 2023, add Monk fruit to your diet if you want to lose weight, keep blood sugar levels under control and inflammation at bay. It is also a boon for diabetics.
