What Are the Benefits of Agave Sweetener?
Agave sweetener, more commonly known as agave nectar or agave syrup,
is harvested from the pineapple-shaped heart of the agave plant native to Mexico. Agave sweetener's advantages include its taste, versatility, nutrition and possible health benefits.
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Culinary Benefits
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From 2003 to 2007, the number of commercial food products using agave sweetener tripled, and as of 2009 that number was still growing. Agave sweetener's culinary popularity is partly owed to its taste, which is milder than honey, and its high potency. In many recipes that call for sugar, a lesser amount of agave sweetener can be substituted.
Diabetic Benefits
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Agave sweetener can contain up to 90 percent fructose, depending on how it is processed. Some varieties of agave sweetener are recommended for diabetics concerned with other sweeteners' high glycemic indexes. However, agave's increased safety for diabetics is not yet supported by conclusive research, and some agave sweeteners contain only 55 percent fructose, the same amount as high-fructose corn syrup.
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Weight Loss Benefits
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According to author and physician Dr. Ray Sahelian, agave contains fructans, which are credited for reducing cholesterol and inhibiting fat absorption in the intestines. However, scientists warn that insufficient study has taken place, and agave sweetener's weight loss benefits are disputed.
Nutrition
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At about 16 calories per teaspoon, agave sweetener has the same amount of calories as sugar. However, some agave sweeteners' high fructose levels bring higher fiber content, and trace amounts of magnesium, calcium, potassium and iron give a slight boost to agave's nutrition.
Fun Fact
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The blue agave plant, which also produces agave sweetener, is integral in the production of tequila.
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References
- Photo Credit Image by Flickr.com, courtesy of Zest-pk
