Agave is not a good alternative to sugar. The reason agave ranks relatively low on the glycemic index is because it has a high content of fructose. Fructose does not raise blood sugar (glucose) levels because it is a different kind of sugar. In the end, using products with high amounts of fructose may be worse than regular sugar. Research suggests that excessive fructose consumption deranges liver function and promotes obesity. The less fructose you consume, the better. Fructose is metabolized in the liver using the same pathways as alcohol - therefore it is actually contributing to non-alcoholic fatty liver disease which can progress to cirrhosis.  As it turns out, agave has a higher fructose content than any other common sweetener, more even than high fructose corn syrup (HFCS) - 85% to 50% respectively. It is highly processed. Because of its reputation as a “natural” sweetener, it is now widely used in products claiming to be good for health – from teas to nutrition bars and energy drinks. Do not be fooled.  The only sweetener out there that I am unaware of that doesn't raise glucose levels and has no negative side effects is stevia leaf extract. The only negative report I came across tried to link it to cancer but it was a very poorly done study and it's funding had links to those who had reason to find something negative. Use caution and read labels carefully. Many manufacturers use dextrose as the main ingredient - the green packets. Make sure the product is 100% stevia extract. Organic is best. The powder works with hot liquids and the liquid can be used with cold beverages.