If you're attempting to - or already have - ditched sugar, you'll be pleased to know there are a range of sugar alternatives that will give you a sweet hit. However, not all sweeteners are created equal. In this article we put agave syrup under the microscope.
The Controversy
Google ‘agave syrup' and you are bound to come across bundles of websites with pages entitled ‘the truth about agave' or ‘agave syrup is not so healthy'. You see, agave syrup is not without controversy.
Also known as agave nectar, the sweet syrup has been heralded as a super sugar alternative. It's even been recommended for diabetics.
However, several natural health advocates including Wellness Warrior Jessica Ainscough and Dr Joseoph Mercola, agave syrup may not be all it's cracked up to be.
Mercola has said that the syrup is a manufactured sweeter, 97 per cent of which is fructose: the very ingredient sugar quitters have been told to avoid. He goes on to say that agave syrup is “devoid of virtually all nutrient value, and offering you metabolic misfortune in its place.”
How is Agave Syrup Sourced?
Agave syrup is made from plant sap, which has been used medicinally in Mexico for eons. It is now found in a range of products including chocolate, soft drinks and snacks.
How is Agave Syrup Made?
Some manufacturers dismiss the claims that all agave syrup is unhealthy. Loving Earth has come out recently and said that their agave products are vacuum evaporated at the source and organically processed. They've also had Australian Certified Organic assess the Loving Earth agave range and declare it pure and free from genetic modification.
That being said, some manufacturers may use chemicals in the production of their agave syrup. As with everything, it pays to do your research and make a decision based on your individual health goals.
A naturopath or nutritionist can advise you on artificial sweeteners and whether or not to incorporate them into your diet.
