Agave syrup is a sweetener made from the heart of the agave plant native to Mexico, the same plant that is used in tequila production. It has thinner texture than honey and a sweet, mild taste that makes it great for baking, a perfect topping for hot cereal, and ideal for sweetening drinks.
What are the benefits of using it? It happens to have about a third of the calories per serving compared to white granulated sugar and has the added benefit of tasting sweeter. It also ranks lower on the glycemic index, creating less of a spike with blood sugar, critical for maintaining a healthy heart and a stable weight.
It’s easy to use and has an excellent shelf-life. I like to use it the same way I would use honey, to add a light sweetness to my oatmeal or to create moist, low-sugar cookies. While agave syrup, sometimes called agave nectar, is lower on the glycemic index, and happens to have less calories, indulge in moderation just as you would with any sweetener or any sugary dessert. Just a spoonful will do!
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I love agave nectar. It is very tasty drizzled over 0% fat greek yogurt with some almond slivers. YUM!
Jill, I make the same thing but with pomegranate seeds instead of almonds. I do often wonder about 0% fat Greek yogurt…it just tastes too good to be fat free!
Startcooking – What a great idea! I’m always open to new ways to incorporate pomegranate into my diet.