Monk Fruit vs. Stevia: Why Monk Fruit Might Be the Sweetest Choice for Kids

When it comes to sweetening foods and beverages for children, parents often seek healthier alternatives to traditional sugar. Two popular options are stevia and monk fruit. Both offer a low-calorie, natural alternative to sugar, but they have unique characteristics that can influence their suitability for kids.

Monk Fruit: The Sweet Advantage

What is Monk Fruit?

Monk fruit, or luo han guo, is a small, round fruit native to southern China. It's been used for centuries in traditional Chinese medicine and more recently as a natural sweetener. Monk fruit extract is created by removing the seeds and skin, crushing the fruit, and collecting the juice, which is intensely sweet but contains zero calories.

Advantages of Monk Fruit for Kids:

1. Natural Sweetness without the Aftertaste:
• Unlike stevia, which some people find to have a bitter or licorice-like aftertaste, monk fruit is praised for its clean, pure sweetness. This makes it more palatable for children, who can be especially sensitive to taste.
• Because monk fruit sweetener blends well with most flavors, it’s an excellent choice for baking or sweetening beverages without altering the flavor profile.
2. Zero Calories and Carbohydrates:
• Monk fruit sweetener contains zero calories and carbohydrates, making it a great choice for reducing sugar and calorie intake. This is particularly beneficial for kids who are managing their weight or for those with dietary restrictions.
• Unlike sugar, monk fruit does not cause a spike in blood glucose levels, which is important for children with diabetes or those at risk of developing it.
3. Safe for Most Diets:
• Monk fruit is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA and is suitable for children on various diets, including ketogenic, paleo, and low-carb diets.
• Since monk fruit is naturally derived and contains no artificial ingredients, it aligns well with parents seeking wholesome, natural products.
4. Rich in Antioxidants:
• Monk fruit contains antioxidants called mogrosides, which are not only responsible for its sweetness but also have potential health benefits, such as reducing inflammation and supporting immune health. This added benefit can be an attractive option for parents looking to boost their child's diet.
5. Versatile Usage:
• Monk fruit can be used in a wide variety of recipes, from beverages and smoothies to baked goods and sauces. Its heat stability makes it ideal for cooking and baking, where other sweeteners might lose their potency or develop an off-flavor.

Comparing Stevia:

What is Stevia?

Stevia is another natural sweetener derived from the leaves of the Stevia rebaudiana plant. It is much sweeter than sugar, meaning only a small amount is needed to achieve the desired sweetness.

Advantages of Stevia for Kids:

1. Calorie-Free Sweetness:
• Like monk fruit, stevia is also calorie-free and does not contribute to tooth decay, making it a good option for children’s dental health.
• It’s ideal for managing blood sugar levels as it doesn’t cause insulin spikes, similar to monk fruit.
2. Widely Available and Cost-Effective:
• Stevia is often more widely available in grocery stores and can be more affordable than monk fruit, making it a more accessible choice for families on a budget.

Why Choose Monk Fruit Over Stevia for Kids?

• Taste Profile: The primary advantage of monk fruit over stevia is its taste. Monk fruit is often favored for its clean, sweet taste without the bitterness or aftertaste that some people experience with stevia. For kids, this can make a big difference, as they may be more particular about flavors.
• Less Likely to Cause Digestive Issues: Stevia, especially in large amounts or in certain formulations (like those mixed with sugar alcohols), can sometimes cause digestive discomfort in children, such as bloating or gas. Monk fruit is generally gentler on the stomach, making it a safer choice for kids who may have sensitive digestion.
• Antioxidant Benefits: The mogrosides in monk fruit not only provide sweetness but also offer antioxidant benefits, potentially boosting immune health and providing additional protection against oxidative stress—something that stevia does not offer.

Fun and Easy Monk Fruit Treats for Kids

1. Monk Fruit Chocolate Chip Cookies

Ingredients:

• 1 cup almond flour
• 1/4 cup coconut flour
• 1/2 cup unsweetened chocolate chips
• 1/2 cup monk fruit sweetener
• 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted
• 1 large egg
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• Pinch of salt

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, mix almond flour, coconut flour, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the monk fruit sweetener, melted coconut oil, egg, and vanilla extract until smooth.
4. Combine the wet and dry ingredients until a dough forms, then fold in the chocolate chips.
5. Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough onto the baking sheet, flattening them slightly.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are golden.
7. Let cool before serving. Enjoy a guilt-free cookie that's crispy on the outside and chewy on the inside!

2. Hydrant Hydration Gummies

Ingredients:

• 1 packet Hydrant Fruit Punch 
• 1 cup water
• 1 tbsp monk fruit sweetener
• 3 tbsp unflavored gelatin

Instructions:

1. Heat the water in a small saucepan over low heat. Add the Hydrant Fruit Punch Mix and monk fruit sweetener, stirring until fully dissolved.
2. Slowly sprinkle the gelatin into the mixture while whisking continuously to prevent clumps.
3. Pour the mixture into silicone molds of fun shapes.
4. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until the gummies are firm.
5. Pop them out and enjoy a chewy, hydrating snack!

These gummies are not only fun to eat but also provide essential electrolytes and hydration, thanks to Hydrant’s balanced mix.

Conclusion: The Monk Fruit Advantage

While both stevia and monk fruit are excellent natural sweeteners that provide sweetness without the calories and without impacting blood sugar levels, monk fruit holds a slight edge for children. Its neutral taste, lack of aftertaste, and added health benefits make it a preferable choice for picky eaters and parents seeking a nutritious, natural sweetener.

Ultimately, the best choice will depend on your child's taste preferences, dietary needs, and any potential sensitivities. However, with its unique benefits, monk fruit stands out as a top contender for a kid-friendly sweetener.

If you’re ready to make the switch to monk fruit or want to explore more natural sweeteners for your family, consult with a nutritionist or try a variety of products to see what works best for your needs. Happy sweetening!