You may have noticed monk fruit popping up on food labels or on your favourite health blogs. Also known as luo-han-guo, this 100% natural sweetener is made from the ripe fruits of Siraitia grosvenorii and has been used for centuries in Asian countries.16 17 18 Monk fruit contains antioxidant plant components called mogrosides which are 300 times sweeter than sugar and calorie-free.19 20 Because such a small amount is needed to sweeten foods, monk fruit is ideal to cut back or reduce sugar and calorie intake – without sacrificing taste.BENEFITS:● Less unwanted sugar and ‘empty’ calories.● Natural alternative to artificial sweeteners.● Zero GI (glycaemic index).21● Alternative to sugar alcohols such as xylitol, maltitol and sorbitol. Widely used in foods as sweeteners and thickeners, these can cause gas and bloating.22