Evidence supporting the use of: Monkfruit
For the health condition: Sugar Cravings
Synopsis
Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2
Monk fruit (Siraitia grosvenorii) is primarily used as a natural, non-nutritive sweetener due to its intense sweetness (from mogrosides) and negligible caloric content. The rationale for its use in addressing sugar cravings is based on its ability to provide sweet taste without the metabolic and caloric impact of sugar. Some preliminary studies and clinical observations suggest that replacing sugar with monk fruit sweetener can help reduce overall sugar intake, which may, in turn, help individuals manage cravings for sugary foods. For example, research has shown that non-nutritive sweeteners, including monk fruit, can satisfy cravings for sweetness and reduce total caloric intake when used in place of sugar; however, some studies also caution that the long-term effects on craving regulation are mixed and may depend on individual differences and patterns of use. While monk fruit has a history of use in traditional Chinese medicine, this was mainly for cough relief and not specifically for cravings. Thus, the use of monk fruit to support or treat sugar cravings is primarily justified by emerging scientific reasoning rather than historical tradition, but the direct evidence—especially from rigorous human trials—remains limited. Therefore, while it is a reasonable substitute for sugar and may indirectly help with cravings, the strength of scientific evidence supporting its use specifically for reducing or controlling sugar cravings is moderate at best.
Other ingredients used for Sugar Cravings
5-Hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP)cassia bark
chicory
chromium
fenugreek
glucomannan
hydroxycitric acid
inulin
l-tryptophan
magnesium
monkfruit
relora® (proprietary)
stevia
sugar alcohol
zinc
kidney beans
1-deoxynojirimycin
aspartame
Apple Cider Vinegar
Berberis (unspecified)
Bitter principals
Carob
D-Pinitol
Erythritol
Vinegar
Products containing monkfruit
Designs For Health
Insomnitol™ Chewables
Klean Athlete
Klean Collagen+C™
Designs For Health
Vitamin B12 Lozenges