Ingredient
Monk fruit / steviol glycosides
What is Monk fruit / steviol glycosides?
Monk fruit and steviol glycosides are natural sweeteners derived from the monk fruit plant and the stevia plant, respectively. Both are processed into extracts that are hundreds of times sweeter than sugar, allowing them to be used in small quantities.
These sweeteners are used as sugar alternatives, providing sweetness without the calories. They are often found in products marketed for low-calorie, low-sugar diets. Scientific evidence on their health impact is generally positive, with some research suggesting they may help in reducing calorie intake and managing blood sugar levels.
When you see monk fruit or steviol glycosides on a label, it typically indicates that the product may have reduced sugar content. They are popular in keto and diabetic diets due to their minimal impact on blood glucose.
Commonly found in: Beverages, Desserts, Baked Goods, Snacks, Condiments, Ice Cream
What to watch
- Some individuals may experience digestive discomfort from steviol glycosides.
Benefits
- Monk fruit and steviol glycosides provide sweetness without adding calories.
- They have a negligible impact on blood sugar levels, making them suitable for diabetics.
Both monk fruit and steviol glycosides are recognized as Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) by the FDA.
Research indicates these sweeteners can be beneficial for reducing sugar intake, but individual responses, particularly to steviol glycosides, can vary.
Neither monk fruit nor steviol glycosides are derived from animals and are considered vegan-friendly.
Scout's take
Natural non-nutritive sweeteners.
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