While alcohol is widely known to harm health, California-based gastroenterologist Dr. Saurabh Sethi has pinpointed tequila as a surprisingly healthier choice for drinkers, the New York Post reported.
Made from the agave plant, tequila is low in sugar and carbs and naturally gluten-free, setting it apart from other liquors that are often distilled from grains. The agave’s unique composition may help tequila impact blood sugar less severely, which could make it friendlier to those watching their intake.
Studies suggest agave’s non-digestible compounds can positively affect digestion.
Mexican researchers found that agave functions as a prebiotic, which supports gut health by feeding beneficial bacteria. Some research even indicates that blue agave, the primary plant used in tequila production, creates a protective barrier around certain medications in the gut, potentially enhancing their effectiveness.
One key factor in alcohol’s damaging effects is acetaldehyde, a toxin produced when the body metabolizes alcohol. Tequila, however, is processed into acetaldehyde more slowly than many other spirits.
This slower breakdown might explain why some drinkers report milder hangovers after tequila compared to darker liquors like whiskey, which contain more congeners, compounds linked to hangovers.
Pure tequila made from 100% blue agave also contains fewer of these congeners than many other distilled spirits, further reducing hangover risk.
The New York Post reported dieticians like Tanya Zuckerbrot recommend tequila to clients for its relatively low calorie content—only about 64 calories per shot, compared to vodka’s 96.
Its naturally sweet taste can also reduce the need for sugary mixers, which are often high in calories and carbs.
Still, experts caution that tequila’s potential health benefits apply only to pure, high-quality versions, with no sugary mixers. Mixing tequila with other ingredients often negates its advantages, adding extra sugars and calories that can harm health.
Despite tequila’s comparative health perks, Dr. Sethi underscores that complete abstinence from alcohol remains the healthiest choice. For those who choose to drink, however, opting for high-quality tequila in moderation may provide a less harmful experience.
Written with assistance from artificial intelligence.