4 Reasons Tequila May Be the Healthy Spirit Option

First, let’s shout it from the rooftops: We’re not saying drinking alcohol is profoundly healthy, and this sure isn’t medical advice. So, now that we’ve cleared the air there, we’re super intrigued by some of the apparent and possible health benefits of one of our favorite distilled drinks…yes, it’s tequila time on the blog today!

From its potential to aid digestion and promote heart health, to its low-calorie content compared to other spirits, we delve into why tequila can be enjoyed as part of a balanced lifestyle.

Is Tequila Healthy?

While we won’t recommend you substitute a margarita for your daily multivitamin, it is safe to say tequila has benefits that a lot of other alcohol options can’t offer. It’s made of natural ingredients in a traditional process and — no offense to corn and wheat — the blue agave plant has been shown to house a host of health benefits not found in the sources of other spirits. Read on for our favorite reasons to raise a glass of the good stuff…

1. Tequila May Aid Digestion (and Your Metabolism!)

In Mexico, where tequila originated, it’s long been used as a digestive aid. Now, there haven’t been a whole lot of scientific studies to give hard proof to the effects, but we like a little anecdotal evidence with our añejo. Agavins, the fructan in the agave plant that becomes tequila, are prebiotics (great for immune health!) and are natural sources of fiber, which can help you feel fuller faster. Our favorite tip is always to sip slowly and hydrate when you’re enjoying a round of drinks…the fact those same agavins may also help reduce inflammation in your system is another tool in avoiding a hangover!

In fact, one of our favorite ways to embrace the potential benefits of tequila is to pair it with kombucha…a great way to enjoy a cocktail that has probiotics, heart-healthy polyphenols, and is naturally low in sugar. Want a healthy tequila cocktail recipe that tastes like restaurant quality? Try our Spicy Kombucha Margarita for your next Taco Tuesday!

It’s a low calorie drink with tequila, gut-friendly kombucha tea, refreshing lime, and a sweet, sparkling kick.

Spicy Kombucha Margarita Recipe:
4 oz tequila
2 limes, squeezed
8 oz Cayenne Kombucha
3 oz pineapple sparkling water (we like Spindrift or Bubly)

Pour all ingredients into a shaker, stir.
Pour into margarita glasses or lowball glasses, garnish with a lime slice. Makes two drinks.

2. Tequila Might Regulate Blood Sugar

You may have heard tequila is naturally low in sugar. True. It’s also possible it helps regulate your blood sugar, which can help balance the spike sometimes caused by drinking alcoholic beverages. Scientists in one study found those same friendly agavins also helped mice in this study produce insulin, which helped stabilize blood sugar and prevented the negative effects of diabetes.

3. The Ingredients Are Clean

High-quality tequila is a surprisingly pure liquor — it’s free of additives, extra sugar, and fake flavors. This also lowers its chances of containing impurities…aka the nasty stuff that can lead to inflammation, sugar crashes, and rough hangovers. Now, too much of a good thing is still too much, so remember the key is moderation. But the fact that blue agave is loaded with antioxidants is yet another reason we feel calm and confident when we sip our favorite tequila. We like a fresh, crisp tequila soda (with lime!) for a clean cocktail option with just the right ratio of oomph and aah.

4. Tequila Might Help Maintain Strong Bones

Some research has indicated that properties found in tequila can help our bodies absorb both calcium and magnesium, leading to stronger bones. This would be exciting news, especially for women — osteoporosis is a real concern for everyone, but especially women as they mature in age. Just another reason to enjoy margaritas with your ladies! Or, opt for the classic, citrusy Paloma to toss in a dose of Vitamin C, which also helps prevent bone loss.Win win.

Paloma Recipe:
2 oz tequila
3 oz grapefruit juice, freshly squeezed (about 1/2 grapefruit) or store-bought.
1/2 oz simple syrup
½ lime, squeezed
2 oz club soda

Add tequila, grapefruit juice, simple syrup and lime juice into a shaker with ice and shake until chilled, about 15 seconds.
Strain into a rocks glass over ice.
Top with club soda.

Remember, the best tequila is the one you enjoy in moderation. From all of us at Cox’s & Evergreen, we drink to your health and happiness. Cheers!