Tequila: The Healthiest Alcohol Choice? A Doctor Weighs In

Dr. Saurabh Sethi, a gastroenterologist from California, highlights tequila as a surprisingly healthier alcoholic option due to its low sugar, low carb content, and potential gut health benefits. While emphasizing moderation, he explains how tequila's unique properties set it apart from other spirits.

When it comes to health, the consensus is clear: alcohol consumption generally poses risks. However, not all alcoholic beverages are created equal. California gastroenterologist Dr. Saurabh Sethi recently shared on TikTok his take on the “healthiest choice” for those who indulge in drinking: tequila.

Dr. Sethi points out that while there’s no truly "healthy" alcohol, tequila has distinct advantages over other options, particularly when consumed without sugary mixers. He notes, “Tequila is derived from the agave plant, which means it is low in sugar and carbs.” Furthermore, unlike grain-based liquors, tequila is naturally gluten-free.

Research from Mexican scientists at Centro de Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados Biotechnology and Biochemistry Irapuato indicates that the agave in tequila is non-digestible, leading to less impact on blood sugar levels compared to other alcoholic beverages. This is significant for those monitoring their glucose.

Moreover, tequila may offer additional health benefits. Studies from the University of Guadalajara have shown that blue agave can create a protective barrier for medications treating intestinal issues, reducing the risk of dilution in the stomach. Agave contains beneficial compounds like fructans and fructooligosaccharides (FOS), which may serve as prebiotics that enhance gut health, digestion, and alleviate gastrointestinal problems.

Alcohol metabolism involves breaking down ethanol into acetaldehyde, a known toxin and carcinogen that harms DNA and hampers its repair. While tequila also produces acetaldehyde, its breakdown occurs at a slower rate, which may contribute to a reduced hangover effect for some drinkers. Dr. Sethi mentions, “Tequila is metabolized into acetaldehyde at a slower rate than other alcoholic beverages. This slower metabolism may explain why some individuals experience fewer hangover symptoms with tequila.”

A study from Brown University’s Behavioral and Social Sciences Center for Alcohol and Addiction Studies identifies congeners—byproducts of fermentation—as a significant factor in hangovers. Clear tequila, particularly varieties made from 100 percent blue agave, contains fewer congeners than darker liquors. Dr. Sethi adds, “These benefits apply only to pure agave tequila; mixing it with sugary drinks negates any potential advantages.”

Tanya Zuckerbrot, a certified dietitian from F-Factor Nutrition, echoes this sentiment, advising her clients to consider tequila as a better alternative. She notes that a 1-ounce shot of tequila contains only 64 calories, compared to 96 calories in a shot of vodka. The natural sweetness of agave also means tequila can be enjoyed without sugary mixers, which can significantly increase calorie and carb intake.

While tequila may stand out among alcoholic beverages for its potential benefits, Dr. Sethi cautions, “The healthiest option remains to minimize alcohol consumption whenever possible.”