Is Tequila a Probiotic? Myths and Facts
Tequila is famous for being the life of the party and the key part of cocktails like the Margarita. One of the most commonly claimed health benefits of tequila is that it is a probiotic.
Probiotics are live microorganisms that are similar to the beneficial bacteria that are naturally found in the human gut. Probiotics are thought to offer a number of health benefits, including:
- Improving gut health
- Boosting the immune system
- Reducing inflammation
- Improving digestion
- Promoting weight loss
- Reducing the risk of some chronic diseases
Tequila does contain some prebiotics, which are non-digestible fibers that feed the good bacteria in the gut. However, tequila does not contain live probiotics themselves.
The short answer:
Tequila is made from the agave plant, which contains a type of fiber called inulin. Inulin is a prebiotic, which means that it is a food that feeds probiotics. When you eat inulin, it is fermented by the good bacteria in your gut, which helps them to grow and thrive.
What are Probiotics?
Probiotics are live, good bacteria that keep your gut in top shape. You've got loads of bacteria in your body. Some good, some not so much. Probiotics are your top players. They sort out your digestive mess, big time. You get them in stuff like yogurt, fermented foods, or as pills you can pop. They're not just for belly aches or that annoying diarrhea. They have a say in your whole well-being. We're talking mood, skin, and even how you fend off sickness. So yeah, these tiny critters do a lot for you.
Is Tequila a Probiotic?
Studies from the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, suggest that agavins, found in the agave plant used to make tequila, can indeed boost good bacteria in the gut. But let's be clear: the research is still in its early stages and far from conclusive.
Tequila contains more than just agavins. It also has alcohol, which isn't exactly known for boosting gut health. In fact, alcohol can disrupt the balance of good and bad bacteria in your digestive system. So even if the agavins in tequila can act in a way that resembles probiotics, the alcohol content might just cancel out those benefits.
Tequila isn't yogurt or a probiotic supplement, items well-known for their beneficial bacteria. If you're really looking to boost your gut health, sticking to proven probiotic sources might be the better route. The studies on agavins are a promising start but don't make tequila a reliable probiotic source yet.
Health Benefits of Tequila
Fewer Calories
Tequila is low on calories. One shot of pure agave tequila is around 69 calories. Way better than soda or beer, which can have up to 150 calories. So, if you watch your weight, this is your drink. Also, read my previous post – How Many Calories in 1 Ounce of Tequila? [Detailed Nutrition Facts]
Good for Your Gut
Agave plant is where tequila comes from. It's got agavins that don't mess with your blood sugar. Some studies even hint that agavins are friendly to your gut bacteria. They feed the good stuff in your belly.
Fights Bad Stuff in Your Body
Tequila has got your back. It has things that help block harmful stuff in your body. But easy there, don't drink too much. That turns the tables and hurts you more.
Helps Your Stomach
A small tequila shot helps after a big meal. It's not proven by science but the idea is that agave has inulin that satisfies your stomach.
Final Verdict
Tequila is a popular distilled spirit with a long history. It is made from the agave plant and is known for its smooth flavor and versatility in cocktails.
While tequila is unlikely to contain any live probiotics, it may still have some health benefits. For example, tequila may help to improve digestion, boost the immune system, and reduce inflammation.
My recommendation
If you are looking for a probiotic drink, there are many other options available that are more likely to contain live probiotics, such as yogurt, kefir, and sauerkraut.
