tequila!

netscape.com

Is tequila the newest weight loss aid? Initial scientific studies show that the juice from the blue agave plant, which is best known in its distilled form as tequila, may help us lose weight and lower our cholesterol, according to researchers from the University of Guadalajara. The bad news? When the blue agave is distilled into alcohol it loses these magic properties. You can't get drunk AND lose weight. Still, tequila's agave plant does seem to have almost magical slimming powers.

Reuters reports that the spiky agave plants, which are part of Mexico's history and mythology, have been cultivated on the country's arid central highlands for thousands of years. Spanish invaders called it "tequila wine" because that's what they made with the plant. Now a team of 20 Guadalajara scientists think the plant's powers may extend well beyond its well-known potential for euphoric alcoholic highs to helping us lose weight and lower our cholesterol.

"The structure of agave contains, among other things, substances known as fructans," Dr. Jorge Segura, who is leading the investigation, told Reuters. "Fructans reduce cholesterol (and) alter the absorption of fat in the intestine, at least in animals." Next step: An 18-month research project using humans to see if the agave plant has the same effect on men and women as it does on animals in the laboratory.

The magic ingredient is a type of fructan called inulin that some scientists think may aid weight loss. This carbohydrate is actually found in many other plants, including asparagus. Obviously, the Guadalajara researchers hope their study will open new markets for the thousands of Mexican agave farmers, who have suffered from a price collapse in recent years as supply outstrips demand, reports Reuters.