by 
The Curious Bag
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The next time you reach for the artificial sweetener or sugar for your food or beverage, consider using agave sweetener as an alternative. Sold in most health food stores, agave sweetener is similar to honey in taste but has a smoother texture.
Identification
Also known as agave nectar or agave syrup, this natural sweetener is derived from the sap of the Blue Agave plant (the same plant that produces tequila), and may offer several benefits for those who use it.
Fun Fact
Agave is a preferred sweetener among many vegans, who generally do not use honey.
Expert Insight
Agave may aid in the delivery process of certain drugs to the colon, to the benefit of those who suffer from irritable bowel syndrome and Crohn's disease, according to Ray Sahelian, M.D., author of "Mind Boosters."
Considerations
Substituting agave for sugar may assist in weight loss. Agave is a natural sweetener and less of it is needed to achieve the same sweetness as sugar.
Theories/Speculation
Some health experts believe agave is low on the glycemic index, although research is still being done to support these claims. If true, agave could be included in diets such as the South Beach Diet and NutriSystem, both of which are based on achieving a low glycemic index as a means of losing weight.
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