Written by Mike Hardman, Marketing Manager at Alliance Online
It’s no secret that alcohol isn’t the best drink for your body, but could tequila have some surprising health benefits? This Mexican drink is made from agave, a plant that’s proven to have many advantages for your body. So, it could be possible that tequila itself — that is, high quality, 100% agave tequila (or blanco tequila) — could also carry some of the same benefits when enjoyed responsibly and in moderation.
In honour of National Tequila Day on the 24th July, Alliance Online have pulled together some surprising findings and studies about your favourite tipple.
It could be good for your bones
Some studies suggest that the ingredients in tequila may help keep your bones healthy. A release published by the American Chemical Society concluded that the “fructans” in the agave plant may help the body absorb calcium better, which can help protect against osteoporosis and other health conditions.
The report comes after a study on lab mice. Those that were given agave fructans were found to have absorbed more calcium from their food and excreted less calcium in their waste. They also showed signs of the build-up of new bone tissue. And, while this study has only been completed on laboratory mice, scientists suggest humans could benefit from the same results.
It could help with digestion
Agave, the plant tequila is made from, has also been found to be a possible digestive aid. A study published in the journal Food & Function aimed to find the effects of agave on gastrointestinal tolerance by giving participants 5.0 and 7.5g of agave inulin each day for three 21-day periods.
The study also included a placebo group. Their results found that those who received the agave inulin showed minimal gastrointestinal upset and improved laxation, which suggests that agave could help aid digestion.
It can act as a prebiotic
Not only can agave help with digestion, but it could also act as a prebiotic, according to a study published in The Journal of Nutrition. This means agave, and possibly tequila, could help encourage the growth of healthy gut bacteria.
The study measured the effects of agave in the gut of healthy adults. The results showed that participants who were given agave inulin showed more of the probiotic Bifidobacterium in their waste. Participants also showed lower levels of ammonia and phenols in their samples — both of which are toxic to intestinal epithelial cells.
As a result, the scientists were able to conclude that agave may have a prebiotic effect on the gut.
It could boost your immune system
As a result of its prebiotic properties, agave could also help boost your immune system, that is according to a study published in the International Journal of Biological Macromolecules. Researchers discovered that agave fructans interact with probiotics and can help activate immune responses in healthy adults.
It’s low calorie compared to many popular tipples
Looking for a low-calorie drink to enjoy this weekend? Tequila could be your answer. The drink is low in sugar and has just 97 calories per serving (Fitbit). That’s compared to 133 calories in a standard glass of wine, and 239 calories in a pint of beer (NHS).
So, if you’re looking for an alcoholic drink that is lower in calories, then tequila or a tequila-based cocktail could be the solution.
The information in this article is not intended as medical advice and the suggested health benefits do not necessarily outweigh the risks. Please drink alcohol responsibly and stay within the weekly limit recommended by the NHS. For more information, visit https://www.drinkaware.co.uk/.
“When we’re heading to our local pub or on a night out with our friends, the health benefits of our drinks aren’t necessarily the first thing on our minds. But there could actually be some great advantages of your favourite drink.
“If you’ll be enjoying a shot of this Mexican tipple this National Tequila Day, then the science suggests you could benefit from healthier bones, digestion, and immune system. Plus, as it’s naturally lower in sugar and calories than many other alcoholic beverages, it’s a great option if you’re a little health conscious. Many people have also reported less serious (or even no) hangovers after drinking blanco tequila — so there’s that added benefit too!
“Tequila is extremely versatile, and you can either choose to drink it neat or add it to a cocktail. In fact, some of the most classic cocktail options include this spirit, such as a margarita and tequila sunrise. This drink also goes great with soda water, lime, and grapefruit. For a hit of authentic Mexican flavour, why not add a jalapeño to the mix?
“Of course, you have to bear in mind that no alcohol is particularly healthy for you, so we don’t suggest overindulging to get all the health benefits. Instead, it’s best to stick to small measures and drink responsibly to avoid counteracting the advantages!”
About Alliance Online:
Alliance Online is one of the UK and Ireland’s leading suppliers of catering and kitchen essentials within the hospitality and private sector. Founded in 1999, the company works with a vast range of suppliers to deliver high quality equipment to professionals in the hospitality industry and to those at home. The business sources all of its products from industry leading suppliers and only stocks the best brands to ensure our customers get the highest quality.
For more information visit https://www.allianceonline.co.uk/
Resources and further reading:
https://www.acs.org/content/acs/en/pressroom/newsreleases/2010/march/ingredient-in-tequila-plant-may-fight-osteoporosis-and-other-diseases.html
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/261069101_Gastrointestinal_tolerance_and_utilization_of_agave_inulin_by_healthy_adults
https://academic.oup.com/jn/article/145/9/2025/4585764
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0141813013005837
https://www.fitbit.com/foods/Silver+Tequila/741766956
https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/alcohol-support/calories-in-alcohol/
https://www.drinkaware.co.uk/
