Minimally processed agave (pronounced u-gar-vey) provides vitamins, minerals and enzymes that are not found in other processed sweeteners. Agave is available light or dark, which simply means that the light agave has been filtered. The unfiltered dark agave syrup has a wide spectrum of minerals and phytonutrients.
This Agave Nectar is harvested from the Wild Maguey species by the Aztecs in the Ixmiquilpan region of Mexico. The Wild Maguey is central to their culture and they have been harvesting it for thousands of years. The Agave is processed below 40ºC. Agave Syrup has a low Glycemic Index (<30). As a replacement for sugar, use 25% less Agave Syrup than you would normally use of sugar. The dark unfiltered Agave has more minerals than the light filtered version and a richer, wilder flavour.
Health Benefits
There has been controversy regarding the use and promotion of Agave Syrup as a health food. Agave Nectar - The high fructose health fraud, an article written by Rami Nagel and Beware of the Agave Nectar Health Food Hype by Dr Mercola are the sources of the confusion. Both Authors have presented some valid information regarding conventionally grown and processed Blue Webber Agave. However, the information presented is not an accurate representation of Loving Earth's Agave products. Minimally processed agave provides vitamins, minerals and enzymes that are not found in other processed sweeteners.
Loving Earth’s unfiltered Dark Agave syrup has a wide spectrum of minerals and phytonutrients. Dr Mercola is erroneous when he states that dark agave is burnt. The light and clear varieties of Agave have undergone filtration, which is why they are lighter in colour. The Dark agave is unfiltered and richer in minerals, this results in its darker colour.
Unlike high fructose corn syrup that stores its energy as starch, Agave Syrup stores its energy as Inulin, also known as Fructans or Levulose. Inulin is typically found in roots or rhizomes. There is no starch in Agave Syrup. Inulin bypasses digestion in the stomach and small intestine and is actually digested in the large intestine. Inulin actually feeds the probiotic bacteria in our digestive system. This is absorbed slowly into the bloodstream giving it a low glycemic index and is therefore diabetic friendly. It is also the perfect sweetener for children as it does not significantly raise blood sugar levels, preventing the highs and lows associated with sugar intake and instead provides a sustained, steady source of energy.
Agave syrup is a concentrated Cactus Juice. Like all concentrated foods agave should be consumed in moderation. We believe that Agave Syrup is a healthier sweetener alternative compared to cane sugar. When used respectfully Agave syrup does have health promoting properties. Overconsumption and inappropriately using Agave is what leads to health issues and puts our bodies out of balance. Agave should be used as part of a balanced diet.
Doctor Mercola states that "Agave Nectar as a final product is mostly chemically refined fructose". The sugars in our agave nectar come from the breakdown of the inulin molecule through the introduction of the certified vegan enzyme. It is in no way chemically refined, there are no chemicals involved in any part of the production or packaging process. The growers do not use any chemicals, Ionic resins, Sulphuric/hydrochloric acid, dicalite, clarimex in the manufacturing of Loving Earth’s Agave Syrup. Australian Certified Organic have audited the harvesting and processing of Loving Earth’s agave syrup. They have verified that the agave syrup is pure and that no chemicals or genetically modified organisms are used. They have also verified that it is harvested sustainably. It is refined only as much as the excess moisture is removed from the juice of the plant to prevent fermentation.
