13/12/2024

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How Does Yacon Syrup Compare to Agave Syrup

How Does Yacon Syrup Compare to Agave Syrup

Yacon is syrup that is native to the Andean region of South America. Its name is derived from a plant that grows in the high attitudes valley of the Andes Mountains. It has huge leaves and is similar to potatoes where as its root system lounges in the ground. When digging up the root of the yacon the syrup is extracted from the root. The syrup is extracted from the root of the plant, this plant is called yacon and it is similar looking to the sweet potatoes that Americans are accustom to eating.

It is a sugar substitute because it is glucose-free, and does not increase blood sugar levels. Due to being glucose-free syrup is often recommended as a sweetener to those suffering from diabetes or at risk for becoming a diabetic. One of the big advantages is that yacon syrup does not hit your bloodstream as a high glycemic food, which means this does not impact your blood sugar levels. In comparison agave syrup acts similar to yacon because it too can be substituted for sugar and is easily digestible and doesn’t’ put blood sugars at risk.

Yacon looks similar to barley malt or brown rice syrup, but yacon taste more like molasses and has a thick consistency. Due to its consistency yacon syrup pairs well with peanut butter or any type of nut butter. It also compliments granola well. For anyone on a restricted diet it is recommended you use spelt (bread) topped with a teaspoon of yacon syrup. In comparison, agave syrup comes in two varieties light brown and dark amber. The light brown agave is similar in color to honey but has a lighter taste than honey and is recommended if you don’t prefer the after taster of honey. The dark brown agave is thicker and was heated longer in the extraction process but pairs well in dark desserts like fruit cake or brownies this particular agave has a more molasses like flavor and really resembles yacon syrup taste also. However for drinks such as teas or coffee the light agave syrup will compliment any drink.

Both yacon and agave syrup are a glucose free sugar substitute. They both make great sweeteners for individuals on a restriction diet or just trying to watch their sugar intake. However when deciding on the two yacon syrup is only available in natural health food stores, but agave syrup is now available in supermarkets and is more familiar. Most dieticians recommend agave syrup more because of its popularity and it is more available for use in foods. However yacon syrup is primarily used more by the vegan diet for gluten free recipes. The choice is up to you and the good part is that it is from nature and due to both yacon syrup and agave high fructose content means less is needed which is the most important factor of all. That means better sugar levels and a better opportunity of achieving optimum health.