This might be shocking but Agave is actually bad for you. For years Agave was marketed as a healthy natural sweetener and the best sugar substitute. Unfortunately, this is not the case. In fact, agave nectar has more concentrated fructose in it than high fructose corn syrup. Now, let’s take a closer look.
6Optimized.webp)
HOW IS AGAVE PRODUCED
In order to produce the Agave nectar, inulin, a soluble fiber, is extracted. Once the inulin is extracted, it is converted to the Agave nectar. This extract is then filtered, heated and subjected to hydrolysis which often utilizes genetically modified enzymes in order to convert most of the carbohydrate into fructose. The process resembles the production of HFCS (high fructose corn syrup).
AGAVE IS MADE UP OF ALMOST 90% FRUCTOSE
When you consume fructose, it is converted to fat by the liver which increases triglyceride levels. Because agave syrup is much higher in fructose than regular sugar, it has higher chances to cause various health issues.
AGAVE SYRUP HAS AS MUCH FRUCTOSE AS HIGH FRUCTOSE CORN SYRUP
- High levels of fructose can increase belly fat and raise the levels of oxidized LDL in your bloodstream.
- Fructose inhibits leptin levels — the hormone that tells your body you’re full. It contributes to weight gain, and makes you gain the most dangerous kind of fat.
- Fructose raises blood triglyceride levels, a predictor of heart disease .
- Fructose metabolism begins with fructose phosphorylation by fructose kinase in the liver, and the process is not feedback regulated.
Additionally, to produce Agave a large amount of chemicals and pesticides are used.