Agave nectar is a pure sweetener created from numerous forms of cactus vegetation native to Mexico, much like the blue agave plant from which we get tequila. Fortuitously, or sadly (you select), it would not have the identical alcoholic properties of its cocktail cousin.

First launched into the well being meals trade within the 1990’s, agave nectar’s recognition is steadily rising. It’s marketed as a low glycemic different to subtle white sugar that doesn’t spike blood sugar ranges to the identical extent as refined sugars. It’s a syrup in type with a barely thinner and fewer sticky consistency than honey or maple syrup, and dissolves simply in scorching or chilly liquids.

Though agave nectar has the identical caloric content material as sugar, it’s sweeter so you need to use much less. It may be utilized in cooking wherever you’d use sugar or honey, slicing the quantity by about one-quarter to one-third due to the elevated sweetness of the agave. Many individuals use agave nectar in desserts, cookies and brownies by changing the sugar with agave nectar (lowered to three-quarters of the quantity known as for within the recipe), reducing the quantity of liquid within the recipe by one-quarter and decreasing the oven temperature by 25 levels.

Is there a spot in your weight-reduction plan for agave nectar? Fairly probably. Agave nectar just isn’t one thing that it’s essential to have in your weight-reduction plan however it may be a step in upgrading it.  In case you are at present utilizing refined white sugar and are wanting to chop again (and who is not), you would attempt it to see if it lessens the sugar rush you expertise. Additionally, see if you will get by on a smaller amount and avoid wasting energy. In case you are at present an enormous person of synthetic sweeteners and are involved with the horrors of their chemical content material, agave nectar is a particular chance for you.

There continues to be a whirlwind of web controversy in regards to the professionals and cons of agave nectar, with Dr. Andrew Weil nonetheless recommending it however solely sparsely, and Dr. Joseph Mercola advocating full elimination out of your weight-reduction plan since it’s a fructose sugar which research are starting to point out as very dangerous.  Dr. Mercola claims it’s even worse than excessive fructose corn syrup, contributing to weight achieve and metabolic syndrome.

If you wish to attempt agave nectar, follow natural variations and respected producers.  Nevertheless, as with most sweetening brokers, it’s nonetheless a easy sugar and needs to be used sparingly. Do not get caught within the entice of pondering that if it is pure, extra should be higher.

Not restricted to well being meals shops and the web, agave nectar goes mainstream and could be discovered at Complete Meals and Dealer Joe’s in addition to many conventional grocery store chains. With out the advantage of authorities subsidies, it is pricier than sugar however nonetheless value a attempt.

Margie King is an authorized holistic well being coach, Wharton M.B.A. and former company lawyer. Margie leads workshops on vitamin, conducts wholesome cooking courses, and presents particular person and group well being and vitamin teaching to girls and busy professionals.

For extra info and to entry her free webinars, take a look at Margie’s web site: Clase Azul Tequila For Sale