Fructose is controversial, as some studies have shown a link to insulin resistance, fatty liver, and high cholesterol. It is converted to glucose or stored as fat if consumed in excess. Fructose is not absorbed directly into the blood stream like glucose instead, it travels to the liver to be digested. It is essential, and our bodies can make it if needed. There are differences between glucose and fructose: glucose is the molecule measured in blood sugar, and is the preferred energy source for cells in the body. This benefit is already built into whole fruit, which is high in fiber when sugars are extracted from natural sources, we single out the least beneficial nutrient to consume on its own. By slowing digestion, sharp blood sugar spikes and falls can be avoided. Fiber affects the rate of digestion, and therefore the rate of absorption of sugar. But keep in mind that when we consume these naturally occurring sugars in fruit, they are delivered into the gut with many other nutrients like fiber that aren't present when you use a processed concentrated sweetener. When we think of it as fruit sugar, fructose seems benign. Table sugar is about half glucose and half fructose, while agave is closer to 70% fructose and 30% glucose, depending on the brand.įructose is commonly referred to as "fruit sugar," because fructose is found in fruit and other plant foods. These are the same molecules that make up sucrose (or table sugar), but in a different ratio. The end product is a processed syrup, instead of a minimally processed sweetener.Īgave syrup is made up of two carbohydrate molecules: glucose and fructose. Today, however, it is processed and refined by treating the sugars with heat and enzymes, which can destroy the beneficial effects of the plant. It was boiled down into thick syrup in a process similar to the method used to make maple syrup. Agave nectar has been heralded as a natural alternative to sugar, but is it a better option to use in your food?Īlso called agave syrup, this sweet nectar is derived of sap from the agave plant.
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