What are the uses of Agave angustifolia?
Agave angustifolia is a xerophytic species widely used in Mexico as an ingredient in sweet food and fermented beverages; it is also used in traditional medicine to treat wound pain and rheumatic damage, and as a remedy for psoriasis. Sweetener: Agave But while that’s true, agave can be up to 90 percent fructose, which has been linked to insulin resistance and higher bad (LDL) cholesterol, so use it sparingly. Like white sugar, agave may increase your risk for heart disease if you use a lot of it.Agave nectar will not raise blood glucose levels as rapidly as table sugar, but even the American Diabetes Association says that agave is still sugar; it will still raise blood glucose levels and is far from a healthy choice. Whether sugar, agave, honey, maple syrup or others, simply use less!Agave americana has several toxic compounds, not all of which have been positively identified. It contains the incrediby irritating calcium oxylate raphides (microscopic daggers of crystaline oxylate) as well as some other really irritating oils in the sap.It Can Increase Risk Of Serious Illness Cording shares that some of agave’s fructose is “converted into triglycerides,” a type of fat linked to “increased risk of diabetes, heart disease, and metabolic syndrome. So to be clear, you’re not exactly helping your body by swapping in agave for other sweeteners.In fact, individuals that eat agave nectar on a regular basis are at risk for elevated triglycerides, metabolic changes, and weight gain. All of these effects can lead to a great risk of heart disease.
What is agave used to treat?
The juice and sap of the Agave plant can be used to treat intestinal gas, constipation, upset stomach, weak digestion, malicious gut bacteria, stomach inflammation, and ulcer. It’s a gut-health powerhouse, and it’s an excellent nutrient-rich supplement to any diet. Honey contains roughly 40 percent fructose and 30 percent glucose, while agave contains 55 to 90 percent fructose with the remaining 10 to 40 percent being glucose (depending on how it is processed). Agave received a lot of hype due to its low glycemic index, which results from the higher levels of fructose.Agave is not a healthful replacement for table sugar. While it is less harmful and more natural, people who are closely managing blood glucose should avoid agave. The high fructose content can reduce insulin sensitivity and may worsen liver health. Agave is also a higher-calorie sweetener than table sugar.Derived from the agave plant, agave nectar does contain trace amounts of specific vitamins like vitamins C and B, as well as minerals, including potassium, calcium and selenium. However, because the amount of these nutrients is so small, they are unlikely to provide much of a benefit.Potential Risks of Agave It can also impact your health in a number of ways. Too much fructose has been shown to: Increase your risk of type 2 diabetes and insulin resistance. Damage your liver, causing nonalcoholic fatty liver disease.Agave is generally safe and well-tolerated. The most common side effects of agave inulin are gastrointestinal issues, particularly gas and bloating. These are common side effects that can occur when increasing your fiber intake.