Sweetener from Tequila Plant May Benefit Diabetes & Weight Loss
Photo by Erol Ahmed on Unsplash
For diabetics, there is often an endless battle to keep sugar levels at a manageable level and continue living a normal life. For years, sugar substitutes have been a crucial part of a diabetic’s nutritional regimen. Recently, though, a new study suggested that the natural sugars found in the agave plant known as “agavins” may reduce glucose levels, as well as trigger insulin production in the body. The downside? Agavins don’t taste as sweet as the typical sugar substitutes.
What to Know About Type-2-Diabete by Richard Walker, Jr., MD
What is Diabetes?
Diabetes is a group of diseases marked by high levels of blood sugar resulting from defects in insulin production, insulin action, or both. The most common form, Type 2 diabetes, is the fastest growing disease in the world in number of new cases. It is a major contributor to mortality and morbidity and is a direct result of the pandemic rise of obesity. However, Type 2 diabetes, through life style changes, can be avoided; and for those of you with Type 2 diabetes, you can take steps to control the disease and lower the risk of complications.
It’s essential to manage your weight and eat a healthy diet with plenty of low fat protein and complex carbohydrates. Get rid of the sugary, hi-calorie, hi-carb foods and – get your body moving!
Agave, Tequila Plant
Tequila, which is also derived from the agave plant, contains natural sugars that spike the body’s insulin level. Agavins are non-digestible, and they may act as a dietary fiber instead of a sugar that raises blood glucose levels. This research was presented at the 247th National Meeting of the American Chemical Society. This could be a major breakthrough for diabetics who desire an alternative to sugar that’s more healthy than the artificial sweeteners on the market right now.
Understanding Diabetes by Dr. Alan Pressman
GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) is a hormone that essentially reduces the rate that your stomach empties food, which begins insulin production in your body. As far as the research shows right now, agavins are mostly made up of fructose and have very few known side effects.
Would you try this Tequila Plant agave alternative? Let us know in the comments!
