Tequila Plant May Help Shed Pounds, Lower Cholesterol 35891

Tequila Plant May Help Shed Pounds, Lower Cholesterol

JALISCO, Mexico--The blue agave plant, which is distilled to maketequila, shows great potential for both weight loss and cholesterol reduction,according to scientists from the University of Guadalajara, which is locatedamid the tequila-making region of Mexico. While tequila itself is devoid ofthese specific health benefits, the juice extracted from blue agave containsfructans, including inulin. Fructans reduce cholesterol and alter absorptionof fat in the intestine--at least in animals, said Jorge Segura Ortega, M.D.,research leader. His team of 20 researchers has begun an 18-month study ofagave, aiming to find similar results of these health benefits. Segura Ortegareported positive results from this study would not only help consumers, but itwould also help thousands of Mexican agave farmers who have suffered collapsedmaterial prices in recent years.