Guide To Sugar Substitutes

Agave Nectar

Agave nectar is extracted from the agave plant that grows in the southern United States and Central and South America. The nectar is eighty-five percent fructose, and it has a very low glycemic index. Since it does not elevate blood glucose or insulin levels over the short-term, agave nectar is marketed as a healthy alternative sweetener for diabetes patients. An animal study conducted in mice compared agave nectar with sucrose (table sugar). The mice that were given agave nectar had lower blood glucose and insulin readings and gained less weight than the mice that received sucrose. However, since agave nectar is even higher in fructose than regular table sugar, some scientists urge patients to limit their intake of this nectar. Patients interested in adding agave nectar to their diets might wish to consult with a nutritionist before doing so, particularly if they have diabetes or other risk factors for cardiovascular disease or metabolic syndrome.

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