The surprising health benefits of monk fruit.

Monk fruit is not only famous for its naturally sweet and refreshing taste, but is also known for its amazing health benefits.

For a long time, monk fruit has been considered the "fruit of longevity" due to its high antioxidant content and anti-inflammatory effects - Illustration image

According to Dr. Nguyen Thuy Ngan from the Vietnam Institute for Research and Development of Traditional Medicine, monk fruit (also known as luo han guo) has long been considered a "longevity fruit" due to its high antioxidant content and anti-inflammatory effects.

Throughout history, it has been used in traditional medicine as an expectorant, cough suppressant, laxative, and as a cooling agent for the body.

Today, experts consider natural plant-derived sweeteners, such as stevia and monk fruit, to be attractive alternatives to sugar. The benefits of monk fruit include:

Contains antioxidants to fight free radicals.

Mogrosides in monk fruit are the compounds responsible for its rich sweetness and are also powerful antioxidants. Studies have shown that mogrosides "significantly inhibit reactive oxygen species and oxidative DNA damage" in animals.

The fact that the same monk fruit component that provides antioxidants also provides a calorie-free sweetener makes it an excellent sugar substitute.

It may help reduce the risk of obesity and diabetes.

A 2017 study published in the journal Obesity stated: "Replacing artificial sweeteners with non-nutritional sweeteners (NNS) may support glycemic control and weight management."

In this study, non-nutritive sweeteners, including aspartame, monk fruit, and stevia, were found to contribute significantly less to total daily energy intake, postprandial glucose release, and insulin release compared to sucrose-sweetened beverages.

According to studies, monk fruit can improve insulin response and does not affect blood sugar. This means it can provide the sweet taste we crave without harmful side effects.

Studies suggest that using monk fruit as a sweetener may help prevent the worsening of obesity and diabetes in individuals.

It has anti-inflammatory effects.

Ancient Chinese people used this fruit to cool the body and help with ailments such as fever and heatstroke. It was also used to soothe sore throats.

This method is effective because of the mogrosides found in monk fruit, which have natural anti-inflammatory properties.

Although monk fruit is very good for health, caution should still be exercised when consuming it in large quantities - Illustration image

It may help fight against the development of cancer.

There is evidence that the seeds and extracts from this fruit have anti-cancer effects. Monk fruit extracts have shown the ability to inhibit tumor growth in the skin and breast, providing proteins with potential anti-cancer properties.

While other sweeteners have been shown to increase the risk of cancer, monk fruit sweetener may help reduce this risk.

An opportunity to help fight infection.

Monk fruit has been shown to inhibit the growth of certain types of bacteria, particularly those in the mouth that cause cavities and periodontal disease.

These studies also show the fruit's ability to combat certain forms of Candida symptoms and overgrowth, such as oral thrush, which, if left untreated, can affect many other systems in the body.

Additionally, monk fruit has been shown to act as a prebiotic and regulate gut microbiota to improve gut health. This may also help protect against infections.

Combat fatigue

In a study on mice, monk fruit extract was successful in reducing fatigue in exercising mice. The study was able to replicate the results and demonstrate that mice given the extract had longer exercise durations.

The research provides evidence explaining why monk fruit has long been called the "fruit of longevity".

Suitable for people with diabetes and those on a low-glycemic diet.

This fruit has been used by the Chinese as an anti-diabetic remedy for centuries. Besides being a proven anti-hyperglycemic agent, animal studies have also shown its antioxidant properties targeting pancreatic cells, allowing for better insulin secretion in the body.

The antidiabetic properties of monk fruit are linked to its high mogroside content, as demonstrated in mice.

As a low glycemic index sweetener, it's also a way for people struggling with diabetes to enjoy a sweet taste without worrying about affecting or worsening their condition. For the same reason, monk fruit is a good choice for those following keto diets or other low-carbohydrate diets.

Acts as a natural antihistamine.

Extracts from monk fruit, when used repeatedly, have also shown the ability to combat allergic reactions.

In a study with mice, monk fruit was repeatedly administered to mice exhibiting nasal itching and scratching due to histamine. The study showed that "both monk fruit extract and glycoside inhibited histamine release" in the test subjects.

Source: https://tuoitre.vn/loi-ich-suc-khoe-dang-ngac-nhien-cua-qua-la-han-20250306084204621.htm