Agavins from the Agave plant are non-digestible and can act as a dietary fiber.
March 14/Mexico City/Biotechnology and Biochemistry Irapuato -- A group of researchers in Mexico found that agavins from the Agave plant are non-digestible and can act as a dietary fiber. The natural form of sugar is found in the plant used to make tequila, and the researchers contend it could promote weight loss and help lower blood glucose levels in people with type 2 diabetes or those at high risk of the disease.
Mercedes G. López, Ph.D., from the Biotechnology and Biochemistry Irapuato in Guanajuato, Mexico, and colleagues examined the effects of agavins on laboratory mice. One group of mice were fed a standard diet; others were given a standard diet plus water supplemented with either glucose, fructose, sucrose, agave syrup, agavins or aspartame.