Master Clease Diet With Agave

The Master Cleanse diet is a form of a juice fast. It was developed in 1976 by alternative-health practitioner Stanley Burroughs. The original Master Cleanse diet calls for grade-B maple syrup to be used as a sweetener and nutrient. But some variations call for using agave as the sweetening agent. The Master Cleanse is often touted as a detox diet, but there is limited to no scientific evidence supporting this claim. Before starting any fast or cleanse, you should consult with your doctor. She can advise you of any health problems you may develop if you undertake this fast.

Agave Nectar

Agave nectar is a processed liquid sweetener that is made from the agave plant, a type of cactus. The sap from the catctus is pressed out and reduced to produce a light or dark syrup. Agave contains the same number of calories as sugar, but it is significantly sweeter, so less is required. It is also a low glycemic-index food, so it has less of an effect on overall blood-sugar levels.

Master Cleanse Diet

The Master Cleanse diet is an extended juice fast that's based on fresh lemon juice, maple syrup, cayenne pepper and water. The mixture is drunk throughout the day. Water is also allowed, but nothing else. Burroughs claimed that the lemon juice drink provides sufficient nutrients for maintaining basic body functions, while allowing the digestive system to relax and the body to expel toxins. Scientific evidence to support these claims is limited, and any restricted-calorie diet or fast should be undertaken only with the approval of a medical professional.

Benefits

The original Master Cleanse permitted substituting other sweeteners for the maple syrup, and some people choose to use it because of its lower glycemic-index value. According to "Organic Lifestyle" magazine, agave syrup has a glycemic index value of 15 to 30, depending on the degree of processing. Maple syrup has a glycemic index of 54, according to the magazine. At the same time, agave syrup is also 90 percent fructose, which makes it sweeter than maple syrup. Less syrup may be required for the Master Cleanse mix to achieve a similar level of sweetness in the juice.

Side Effects

Because of its low-glycemic index value many very health-conscious people choose agave as a sweetener. It is also the recommended sweetener for many diabetic diets, as it will not cause the same kind of spike in blood sugar that other sweeteners cause. But agave syrup is still considered an added sugar, and should only be consumed in limited amounts. Agave syrup should not be eaten if you're pregnant, because some types could lead to miscarriage. And if you have diabetes, do not undertake this diet -- whether you use agave or not -- without speaking with your doctor.