In October, we discovered that having just one glass of red wine each day with a meal could be beneficial to glucose levels in the blood, although more than one glass of wine could counteract that effect. The research has shown that consuming excess levels of red wine does not have the same benefits as having just one glass of wine per day with a meal and that excess levels of red wine could potentially have an adverse effect on glucose levels in the blood, rather than being beneficial.
Tequila, Good For Diabetics?
New research in Mexico shows that it may not just be red wine which is beneficial in this respect. The research shows that Tequila may also have similar beneficial properties when consumed in moderate amounts, the reason being that Tequila contains a sweetener called agavin which comes from the Blue Agaves that are most often found in the volcanic soils of Southern Mexico, the same place where agave nectar originates. However, unlike agave nectar, agavin contains no calories and is a fructan which is a naturally occurring form of fructose that is chemically different from agave nectar.
Due to the fact that agavin consists of long chains of individual sugar molecules, this means that agavin cannot be digested by the human body therefore it cannot be broken down into blood glucose. However, it still has a sweet taste, although it may not be as sweet as agave nectar, which is why people rarely comment on Tequila by saying how sweet it tastes.
According to the Center De Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados in Mexico, agavin is most likely more beneficial to those who suffer with type 2 diabetes.
The Medical Benefits
Research into agavin was carried out on two different groups of mice, with one group being given agavin in their water and the other group of mice being given just water. The results of the research showed that the mice who had been given agavin displayed higher insulin levels and lower blood glucose levels than the mice who were given just water.
According to lead author, Mercedes G. Lopez:
“We have found that since agavins reduce glucose levels and increase GLP-1, they also increase the amount of insulin. Agavins are not expensive and they have no known side effects, except for those few people who cannot tolerate them.”
Of course, this is the only study which has reached such conclusions so far and we must therefore remain aware that the dangers of consuming alcohol when suffering with diabetes still remain. The results of this study should not be seen as encouragement to drink loads of Tequila in the hopes of lowering your blood glucose levels.
It does, however, suggest that agavin may have some beneficial medical properties where blood glucose levels are concerned, although further studies are needed. Until then, at least we know we have a new low-carb option with potential medical benefits whenever we visit the bar.
