If you drink in moderation, a few tequila shots could improve your health. The agavins in tequila have a molecular structure that doesn’t cause the sugar spike you see in other drinks and foods. Those same agavins also stimulate probiotics that help the gut. So grab a bottle of your favorite and check out these surprising health benefits of craft tequila:
It’s Good for Your Heart
While drinking any alcoholic beverage in excess can be detrimental to your health, drinking the right amount of alcohol in moderation can have some health benefits. For example, since tequila is a clear liquor, it typically has less sugar and calories than other spirits (like vodka). This may make it a slightly healthier choice for those looking to reduce their booze intake. While you can get your tequila fix with the classic margarita, opting for a cold craft cocktail like this tequila spritzer with clementine, triple sec, and a sprig of marjoram is much more nutritious. This cocktail is a refreshing and delicious twist on your traditional margarita, a great winter option.
In addition, a shot of tequila could help with digestion because the agave plant contains inulin, which helps feed the good bacteria in your digestive system. So sip a small picture of tequila before dinner as an aperitif to stimulate your metabolism, or follow a meal with a shot to aid digestion. To choose the best tequila, look for brands that use high-quality ingredients and are dedicated to their community. Unlike the big commercial brands, smaller brands tend to invest in their product more to ensure you’re getting a quality drink that supports local business. Look for tequila distilled in small batches to provide the highest quality and carefully handle every production step.
It’s Good for Your Skin
It may be hard to believe when you’re staring down a tray of lime, salt and shots (maybe not if you’re a celebrity), but craft tequila has some health benefits. As a rule, tequila isn’t as high in sugar as other popular alcoholic beverages like beer and margaritas so it can be a healthier option for those with diabetes. In addition to being low in sugar, tequila is a natural astringent that can help tighten pores and reduce excess oil and impurities in the skin. It also contains vitamin C, boosting collagen production and making the skin look more radiant. However, your tequila could contain unhealthy additives that take away the health benefits if you’re not careful. For example, many manufacturers add more sugar to their tequila to keep up with demand and speed up production. Unfortunately, that other sugar is often high-fructose corn syrup—linked to several health issues, including fatty liver disease and abdominal obesity. To avoid this, look for tequila labeled as being made with 100% agave and no added sugars. A simple-looking bottle reflects this, as craft brands prioritize focusing on the actual liquid and educating consumers about the history and traditions of tequila-making.
It’s Good for Your Gut
Many people think tequila isn’t a healthy drink because it has alcohol in it, but the truth is that it’s surprisingly good for you. This is because tequila has very low amounts of calories and sugar and is gluten-free so it can be a good choice for those on diets. The agave fructans found in tequila are prebiotics that encourage the growth of gut-healthy bacteria. These healthy bacteria help to maintain immune and bodily functions, so it’s important to have a good supply of them. In addition, tequila contains vitamin A, which is an antioxidant that helps to protect your cells from damage. Tequila also has a lot of fiber, which can help improve digestion and prevent constipation. And finally, tequila has a small amount of magnesium and potassium, minerals necessary for bone health. Overall, tequila is an excellent choice for those who want to boost their digestive health. Be sure to drink it in moderation, as excessive alcohol can cause many health issues, including liver disease, cirrhosis, and heart problems. The agave syrups in tequila contain natural probiotics and prebiotics, so they’re better for your body than other sweeteners. That means tequila is also a good choice for vegan people.
It’s Good for Your Sleep
Although drinking in excess can be bad for your health, when you consume alcohol in moderation, it has some benefits. A recent study shows moderate drinkers have a lower risk of dementia later in life. If you drink any alcohol, it should be in a spirit low in calories and carbohydrates (like tequila). This helps keep your body from overproducing fats and keeps your metabolism running smoothly. Unlike other spirits, tequila does not cause hangovers. The reason for this is because tequila has fewer congeners in it. These substances are produced during the distillation and aging process of other spirits, such as whiskey, wine and brandy. Since tequila is made only from 100% blue agave, it does not have these harmful congeners. There is also a growing belief that tequila may help you sleep better. This is because tequila has a natural chemical that suppresses appetite, reduces high blood sugar levels and increases metabolic rate. However, the results of this research are still being researched. Tequila can be a healthy cocktail with juice or other low-calorie mixers. Just remember that no alcoholic beverage is completely guilt-free, so it’s important to limit your consumption.
