The bone health secret in the exotic agave plant

I’ve got good news and bad news for a very specific demographic: tequila drinkers concerned about bone health…

First the good news: The agave plant, which is the raw material used to make tequila, contains fructans, non- digestible carbohydrates that help the body absorb calcium and magnesium.

Studies have already shown that fructans promote growth of good bacteria in the intestines, prompting better absorption of minerals such as calcium and magnesium. And in a follow up study, researchers found that mice fed agave absorbed more calcium and significantly increased the levels of a protein that marks new bone tissue growth.

Now for the bad news: Before you order an extra pitcher of Margaritas, you should know that fructans don’t survive the tequila distilling process. So drink all you want (in moderation, of course), but don’t expect bone health benefits.

Agave may be easy to come by if you live in the Southwest,. For the rest of us, other sources of fructans include artichokes, onions, and garlic.

Source:
“Tequila Plant–More Than Margaritas” Ivanhoe Newswire, 3/24/10, ivanhoe.com