A Natural, Health-Boosting Sweetener
At XO Jacqui, we carefully select ingredients that not only complement the taste and texture of our powders but also enhance the overall health benefits for women. But why did we choose monk fruit over other popular sweeteners like stevia?
The History and Science Behind Monk Fruit
Monk fruit, also known as Swingle fruit or lo han guo, is a small, melon-like fruit native to southern China. It’s named after the Buddhist monks who first cultivated it hundreds of years ago. Historically, monk fruit was used for its medicinal properties in Eastern cultures, particularly for treating intestinal issues and the common cold. Its use as a sweetener, however, is relatively recent.
What makes monk fruit so sweet is its natural compounds called mogrosides, which are antioxidants found in the fruit. These mogrosides are reported to be 100 to 250 times sweeter than regular sugar, allowing you to use only a tiny amount to achieve the desired sweetness. This means fewer calories without compromising on taste.
Monk fruit is processed in a way that preserves its natural sweetness while maintaining its health benefits:
- The fruit is crushed to release its juice.
- The juice is mixed with hot water and filtered.
- The sweet infusion is then dried to create monk fruit sugar.
Monk Fruit and Women’s Health in Menopause
For women, blood sugar regulation, and inflammation are critical factors to manage. Monk fruit does the trick
1. Blood Sugar Balance and Hormone Health
One of the most significant advantages of monk fruit is that it does not spike blood sugar levels. This is especially important for women in perimenopause and post-menopause, as fluctuating hormones can often lead to blood sugar imbalances. Research has shown that the mogrosides in monk fruit can help regulate insulin levels and improve insulin sensitivity, making it an ideal sweetener for women focused on maintaining healthy hormone levels.
2. Anti-Inflammatory Benefits
Monk fruit is not just about sweetness—it also boasts antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties due to the mogrosides. Chronic inflammation is a common issue as we age, contributing to joint pain, cardiovascular problems, and metabolic changes. By incorporating monk fruit, you’re not only avoiding the inflammatory effects of sugar but actively reducing inflammation in the body.
3. Supports Weight Management
For those concerned about weight gain during menopause, monk fruit is a fantastic option. It contains zero calories, carbohydrates, or fat, making it a great tool for weight management. Since it's so much sweeter than sugar, you need only a small amount, which helps cut down overall caloric intake while still satisfying your sweet cravings.
Monk Fruit vs. Stevia: Why We Prefer It
You might be wondering why we chose monk fruit over another popular natural sweetener, stevia. Stevia has gained popularity in recent years, but it doesn’t work for everyone. Alexis, for example, has never been a fan of stevia due to its distinct, lingering aftertaste. Stevia’s sweetness often comes with an artificial or somewhat bitter note that some people, including Alexis, find hard to ignore.
Stevia’s aftertaste can be attributed to its chemical structure and the way it interacts with taste receptors. While some people may not notice it, for others, like Alexis, the aftertaste is too pronounced. Monk fruit, on the other hand, offers a clean, natural sweetness without that lingering, bitter flavor. It’s smooth, tastes like sugar, and doesn’t leave any unwelcome aftertastes behind.
Dispelling Monk Fruit Myths
Despite its growing popularity, there are still some common misconceptions about monk fruit. One of the most persistent myths is that monk fruit sweeteners are “artificial” or processed heavily, stripping the fruit of its natural benefits. In reality, the process of making monk fruit sweetener involves minimal steps: crushing the fruit, extracting the juice, and drying it to create a fine powder. This allows the natural antioxidants and nutrients to stay intact.
Another rumor is that monk fruit is “too sweet” and can’t be used in everyday foods. While it’s true that monk fruit is significantly sweeter than sugar, that’s actually one of its strengths. You only need a small amount to sweeten anything from your morning smoothie to a baked treat, which means fewer calories and less sugar intake overall.
Monk Fruit: A Powerful Ally in Menopause Health
For women going through menopause, every dietary choice counts. With its hormone-balancing properties, anti-inflammatory benefits, and weight management support, monk fruit is a natural fit for our protein powders. Whether you’re in perimenopause, menopause, or post-menopause, monk fruit can support your health goals without the unwanted side effects of traditional sugar or artificial sweeteners.
At XO Jacqui, we’re committed to offering products that work with your body—not against it. Monk fruit helps us deliver a delicious, health-conscious protein powder that fits seamlessly into your lifestyle, helping you feel your best during every phase of menopause.