Monk Fruit vs Stevia: Which Is Better?

For those following a low-carb or keto diet, or simply looking to reduce their sugar intake, monk fruit and stevia extracts are excellent sugar substitutes. They offer a way to sweeten foods without the added carbs and calories that come with traditional sugar.

We all know the negative effects of consuming too much added sugar, which can lead to various health complications. However, completely giving up sweets can be difficult. That's where monk fruit and stevia come in as great alternatives, as they have little to no calories and do not impact blood sugar levels significantly.

Certified nutritionist Anju Mobin explains that these sweeteners can be beneficial for weight management and maintaining healthy blood sugar levels.

But when it comes to choosing between monk fruit and stevia, which one is better? Let's explore the benefits of each.

Benefits of Monk Fruit Extract

Monk fruit extract, also known as luo han guo extract, is a natural sweetener derived from a South Asian fruit. Some benefits of monk fruit extract include:

1. Being 100 to 250 times sweeter than regular sugar.


2. Having little to no calories, carbs, and sugar.


3. Being safe for consumption in Asian cultures for centuries.


4. Being keto-friendly.

Benefits of Stevia Extract

Stevia, a sweetener originating from South America, is derived from the stevia plant and is available in powder and liquid forms. Some benefits of stevia extract include:

1. Being 50 to 400 times sweeter than table sugar.


2. Having little to no calories, carbs, and sugar.


3. Being widely available in most grocery stores and budget-friendly.


4. Being keto-friendly.

Cons of Monk Fruit Extract

1. Availability may be limited as it is not commonly found in standard supermarkets.


2. It can be more expensive due to its specialty status.


3. Some people may not enjoy the taste or aftertaste of monk fruit.


4. Manufacturers may add other ingredients, such as artificial sweeteners or additives.

Cons of Stevia Extract

1. May cause mild side effects like nausea or bloating in some individuals.


2. Some may find the taste or aftertaste unpleasant.

Choosing Between Stevia and Monk Fruit Extract

Both sweeteners offer similar benefits, so the choice between them often comes down to personal preference. Factors such as taste, cost, and availability should be considered when making your decision.

While monk fruit may be more expensive and harder to find, stevia is more readily available and budget-friendly. Online options can provide access to monk fruit for those interested.

Where to Buy Monk Fruit Extract

If you're looking to purchase monk fruit extract, options can be found online or at specialty stores like Whole Foods. Be cautious of blends with other sweeteners and additives when making your selection.

• Monk Fruit in The Raw (Amazon)


• Julian Bakery Pure Monk (Amazon)


• Organic Monk Fruit Zero Calorie Liquid Sweetener (fruitfulyield.com)


• Lakanto Classic Monkfruit Sweetener (Whole Foods)

Where to Buy Stevia Extract

Stevia extract is more widely available and can be found in most grocery stores, Target, and online retailers. Look for pure stevia options to avoid blends with other sweeteners.

• Stevia in the Raw (Amazon)


• Stevia Select Stevia Organic Powder (Amazon)

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