Tequila is made from agave, which contains agavins that have a slew of scientifically proven health benefits. It’s logical to think that since the key ingredient in tequila contains so many beneficial compounds that tequila is healthy.

But is it?

Tequila tastes amazing, so it’s easy to understand why so many people embrace the idea that it’s healthy and good for us. The fact is, there are more myths surrounding the health benefits of tequila than there are truths.

Today we’re separating fact from fiction, looking at the real health benefits of tequila, and dispelling the myths.

FACT: Tequila is a Healthier Alcohol Because it Has Zero Carbs

We must start by saying that there is no such thing as a “healthy alcohol.” Yet it is true that tequila has zero carbs and less calories than many other types of alcoholic beverages, so it is widely considered a healthier choice.

Keep in mind that regarding calories and carbs, tequila is not in a league of its own. Vodka, rum, gin, scotch, whiskey, and brandy are also zero-carb and have the same caloric value.

In comparison to beer, wine, and hard cider, tequila is the “healthier” choice — but only if you drink it neat. Mixing it into cocktails will only increase the sugar, carbohydrate, and calorie counts in your drink.

FICTION: Tequila Can Help You Lose Weight

Adding tequila to your diet will not help you lose weight. However, consuming tequila in place of sugary cocktails, beer, and wine can help you reduce your calorie and carb intake.

If you’re looking for a weight loss solution, don’t expect tequila to magically help you shed any pounds. What it can do is help you maintain your current weight and cut back on beverage calories and carbs a bit.

To get those zero-carb and low-cal benefits, be mindful of the type and brand you drink.

Most tequila manufacturers include additives, such as caramel coloring and sugar-based syrups, that increase the sugar, calorie, and carb content in the bottle. Even if the label says 100% agave, these additives may still be present. The only way to ensure your drink has zero carbs and zero sugars is to choose additive-free tequila.

FACT: Tequila Can Help You Sleep

All alcohols are depressants. Because they have sedative properties, they can help you unwind and fall asleep. However, while alcoholic beverages may help you doze off, they can also disrupt your sleep cycle and lead to drowsiness the following day.

This article from SleepFoundation.org recommends that you stop drinking alcohol at least four hours before bedtime.

FICTION: Tequila Reduces Inflammation

Raw agave has anti-inflammatory properties, so many people assume that tequila can fight inflammation. It cannot.

One of the first steps in tequila production is cooking the agave. After it’s cooked, it’s fermented with water and yeast. By the end of the fermentation process, all the saponin compounds, which fight inflammation, are gone.

While raw agave can help reduce inflammation, drinking tequila will not.

FACT: Tequila May Reduce Your Risk for Cardiovascular Disease

With light to moderate consumption, alcohol can reduce stress signaling in the brain. Because stress has a big impact on our cardiovascular system and is a contributing factor to developing heart disease, moderate alcohol consumption can be beneficial.

Stress can lead to increased heart rate, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and higher than normal blood sugar levels. Keep in mind that while drinking tequila may make you feel less stressed, there are far better ways to reduce your stress levels, such as getting exercise, eating a healthy diet, and meditating.

FICTION: Tequila Improves Digestive Health

Agave contains various compounds that act as prebiotics and promote the growth of good bacteria in the gut. Like the saponin compounds that fight inflammation, these prebiotic compounds are also lost in the fermentation process.

The truth is that drinking any type of alcohol can cause digestive problems, especially when consumed in large quantities.

In Conclusion

If you usually drink beer, wine, or sugary cocktails, making the switch to tequila is a healthier alternative. With less calories, zero carbs, and zero sugar in additive-free varieties, it is a better option than alcoholic beverages and cocktails loaded with excess sweeteners, calories, and carbs.

In moderation, tequila may also help you sleep better and lower your stress levels, reducing your risk of cardiovascular disease. But adding it to your diet will not help you shed pounds, fight inflammation, or improve your gut health.

Like all types of alcohol, tequila should be consumed responsibly and in moderation. If your goal is to be the healthiest you can be, the best choice is not to drink any alcohol at all.