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Lo Han Fruit Extract

Also known as: Lo Han Fruit, Monk Fruit, Luo Han Guo, Siraitia grosvenorii

Overview

Lo Han Fruit Extract, derived from *Siraitia grosvenorii*, is a natural sweetener traditionally used in Chinese medicine. It is primarily used as a low-calorie sweetener due to its intense sweetness, which is attributed to its main component, mogroside V. The extract is also studied for potential health benefits, including anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. The research maturity level is moderate, with more studies needed to fully understand its effects on human health. The quality of available evidence varies, with some studies showing promising results but often lacking in rigorous methodology. It is available in powder and liquid forms.

Benefits

Lo Han Fruit Extract is primarily recognized for its sweetness without contributing calories, making it a popular choice for weight management. While some studies suggest potential anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, these are not well-quantified in human trials. No specific population benefits have been well-documented in high-quality studies. Due to the lack of robust clinical trials, effect sizes and clinical significance are not well established. The time course of benefits is also not clearly defined due to limited long-term studies. More research is needed to confirm these potential benefits.

How it works

Mogroside V, the main active component, interacts with sweet taste receptors on the tongue, providing sweetness without calories. Its systemic bioavailability suggests potential interactions with metabolic pathways, but these are not well understood. While mogroside V is absorbed and bioavailable, its interaction with body systems beyond taste perception is not fully elucidated. The primary molecular target is the sweet taste receptor. Mogroside V is absorbed to some extent and is systemically bioavailable, but detailed pharmacokinetics are not well-studied.

Side effects

Lo Han Fruit Extract is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by regulatory agencies like the FDA, with no major adverse effects reported in human studies at typical consumption levels. Common side effects are not well-documented due to limited adverse effect reporting. Potential gastrointestinal upset is an uncommon side effect, though not frequently reported. No specific rare side effects are documented. No significant drug interactions have been reported, and no contraindications are established. No specific warnings exist for pregnant women, children, or elderly populations, but caution is advised due to limited data.

Dosage

Typically, Lo Han Fruit Extract is used as a sweetener, with intake levels far below toxicological thresholds. The minimum effective dose is not established for health benefits beyond sweetness. Estimated dietary intakes are below 2.2 mg/kg BW/day for mogroside V, with no adverse effects observed at much higher doses in animal studies. There are no specific timing recommendations. It is available in powder or liquid forms for use as a sweetener. Bioavailability is not well-studied, and no required cofactors are established.

FAQs

How is Lo Han Fruit Extract used?

It is used as a low-calorie sweetener and can be added to foods and beverages to provide sweetness without adding calories.

Is Lo Han Fruit Extract safe?

It is generally considered safe, but long-term effects are not well-studied. It has been granted GRAS status by the FDA.

When should I take Lo Han Fruit Extract?

No specific timing is recommended. It can be used any time a sweetener is desired.

What are the expected results from using Lo Han Fruit Extract?

It provides sweetness without calories, making it a suitable alternative to sugar for those managing their caloric intake.

Does Lo Han Fruit Extract have significant health benefits beyond sweetness?

Some believe it has significant health benefits, but evidence is limited. More research is needed to confirm any additional health benefits.

Research Sources

https://www.fda.gov/media/98476/download – The FDA has determined Lo Han Fruit Extract to be generally recognized as safe (GRAS) for use as a sweetener. This determination is based on its history of safe use and toxicological studies showing no adverse effects at typical consumption levels.
https://www.efsa.europa.eu/en/efsajournal/pub/5921 – The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has noted that while Monk fruit extract is generally safe, more data are needed to fully assess its safety as a food additive. This is particularly regarding potential genotoxic effects of its metabolites.
https://www.huachengbio.com/collegedetail/Everything-You-Need-To-Know-Ab – Animal studies have shown no significant adverse effects at high doses of Lo Han Fruit Extract, supporting its safety profile. These studies contribute to the overall understanding of its safety when consumed as a sweetener.
https://tnsroindia.org.in/JOURNAL/issue85/ISSUE%2085%20-%20AUG%202024%20-%20FULL%20TEXT%20PART%2003.pdf – This document discusses the potential health benefits of Lo Han Fruit Extract, including its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. However, it also emphasizes the need for more comprehensive research to validate these claims and understand the underlying mechanisms.
https://www.liebertpub.com/doi/full/10.1089/jicm.2023.29122.abstracts – This abstract highlights the growing interest in Lo Han Fruit Extract as a natural sweetener and its potential therapeutic applications. It underscores the importance of further research to fully elucidate its benefits and safety profile.