We chose agave nectar because it has the lowest glycemic index of all the natural sweeteners.We're not alone. According to Mark Kern, Ph.D., R.D., CSSD, Professor, School of Exercise and Nutritional Sciences at San Diego State University, "Our preliminary research using an animal model showed improved blood sugar and insulin responses in mice fed agave nectar compared to equal amounts of cane sugar."

The glycemic index (GI) measures the release of glucose into the bloodstream over the two hours after eating, with pure glucose being 100, all for the same number of calories. An index less than 55 is considered low glycemic, meaning it won’t spike blood sugar. Over 70 is considered high. Honey and refined sugar have a glycemic indices from 72 to 89, and will spike blood sugar.

For comparison, some high GI foods—70 and up—are:

• Mashed potato: 70
• Plain bagel: 72
• French fries: 75
• Corn flakes: 83
• French baguette: 95 (close to pure glucose, which is 100, by definition)
• Maltose: 105

Some in the medium range—56 to 69—are:

• Raisins: 65
• Green pea soup: 66

In the low range—55 or less—are:

• Prunes: 15
• Cherries: 22
• Grapefruit: 25
• Whole milk: 30
• Organic agave nectar: 29 to 39 (as tested for the agave salmiana in Zing Bars)
• Navy beans: 38
• Microwave popcorn: 55

Zing Bars are the low range between whole milk and navy beans.

The agave in Zing Bars is also certified organic and non-GMO, does not contain additives and is never heated above 190° F.