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Monk
Also known as: Siraitia grosvenorii, Luo Han Guo, Monk Fruit Extract, Siraitia extract
Monk fruit powder is a natural sweetener derived from Siraitia grosvenorii that contains mogrosides, compounds estimated to be 150–250 times sweeter than sucrose with negligible calories. Limited clinical evidence exists on potential metabolic or health benefits beyond its use as a sugar substitute.
Primary uses
- Natural sweetener alternative
- Sugar substitute for blood sugar management
- Antioxidant support
- Natural sweetening agent
- Sugar substitute for diabetes management
- Calorie-free flavoring
How it works
- Mogrosides bind to taste receptors providing sweetness without glucose metabolism
- Potential antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects from polyphenol content (limited evidence)
Dosage
- Typical range
- 1-2 grams daily (varies by product concentration and mogroside content)
- Timing
- As needed for sweetening beverages or foods
- With food
- Not applicable; typically used as food/beverage ingredient
- Duration
- Safe for long-term use as a sweetener replacement
- Special populations
- Generally recognized as safe in pregnancy and lactation; appropriate for pediatric use as a sweetener
Forms
- Powder· 70/100
- Liquid extract· 70/100
- Concentrated extract· 70/100
- Blended with other sweeteners· 70/100
Safety
Common side effects
- Generally well-tolerated
- Rare reports of mild gastrointestinal effects in sensitive individuals
Evidence notes
Monk fruit is recognized as safe by regulatory agencies and has traditional use history. However, human clinical trials demonstrating specific health benefits are sparse. Most evidence is limited to in vitro studies or animal models; human efficacy data for metabolic claims is preliminary.
Grade C: Mostly observational or small trials; mechanism is plausible but unproven at scale.
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