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Written by Navneet Kaur, M.Sc. Nutrition & Dietetics
Diet
Monk Fruit, a natural sweetener derived from a Southeast Asian fruit, and artificial sweeteners, which are chemically synthesized, represent two distinct choices for those looking to satisfy their sweet cravings without the added calories.
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Monk Fruit is a natural sweetener derived from the Monk Fruit plant, while artificial sweeteners like Sucralose & Aspartame are chemically synthesized compounds created to mimic the sweetness of sugar.
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Monk Fruit is a zero-calorie sweetener, meaning it provides sweetness without contributing to daily caloric intake. Artificial sweeteners are also low or zero-calorie, depending on the type.
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Monk Fruit has a negligible effect on blood sugar levels, making it a suitable choice for individuals with diabetes or those looking to manage blood sugar. Artificial sweeteners are also considered safe for diabetics due to their minimal impact on blood glucose levels.
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Monk Fruit extract is estimated to be up to 250 times sweeter than sugar, whereas artificial sweeteners can be hundreds to thousands of times sweeter than sugar, requiring smaller quantities for sweetness.
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Monk Fruit is known for its clean, natural taste without any bitter or unpleasant aftertaste. Some artificial sweeteners may leave a slight aftertaste, which varies depending on the type and individual taste perception.
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Pure Monk Fruit sweeteners typically contain no additional additives or fillers, whereas some artificial sweeteners might include bulking agents or other substances to enhance texture or volume.
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Monk Fruit retains its sweetness at high temperatures, making it suitable for cooking and baking. Some artificial sweeteners may lose sweetness when exposed to heat, limiting their applications in certain recipes.
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Monk Fruit has been used for centuries in traditional Chinese medicine, adding to its credibility and historical safety. Artificial sweeteners are relatively new, and their long-term effects are still being studied.
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Both Monk Fruit and artificial sweeteners are available in various forms, such as liquid, granules, and powdered, providing consumers with a range of options for their culinary needs.
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The ongoing debate between Monk Fruit and artificial sweeteners boils down to the pursuit of a healthier, guilt-free sweetness. Monk Fruit, with its natural origin and zero calories, presents itself as a compelling option. Artificial sweeteners, which provide calorie-free sweetness, have raised concerns regarding long-term health effects and impact on metabolism.
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