Casamigos Tequila
Image by Dominick Lockyer
Yeah, it’s true. We just published an article about how alcohol affects your workout, but if you read it thoroughly, you’ll remember that it doesn’t have to derail your exercise regimen altogether. In fact, it turns out that one specific type of alcohol actually assists in weight loss.
After reading about how Randy Gerber and his pal George developed a brand of tequila and sold the company for (pinky to lip) one beelyun dollars, we remembered stumbling across an interesting study that showed tequila can help you lose weight.
The Research
The Royal Study Of Chemistry published a paper in which the researchers found that agavins–fructans from the agave plant–aren’t digested like typical sugars are. They actually act more like fiber in the digestive system. That alone is good news because, although agavins are sugars, they won’t raise your blood sugar level, but that’s not really the ultimate benefit. The researchers found that in as few as 5 weeks, agavins promoted peptide secretion which was useful in regulating appetite. The difference in that short amount of time was significant enough to show lower triglycerides and less weight gain, leading the researchers to conclude that agavins could be useful in controlling obesity and metabolic disorder.
Applying the Science
Rather than drinking cocktails made with sugary mixers, opt for tequila and soda over ice, garnished with citrus fruit and maybe a sprig of mint.
Don’t uncork the Petron just yet…we know the traditional train of thought is that if a little is good, more is better, but that is where everything usually goes wrong. Too much of anything isn’t good, and no studies have yet come up with a recommended amount of agavins for health or weight loss. If you’re looking to tequila for help losing weight, make it a substitution choice rather than your whole plan.
That means still keeping alcohol intake to a minimum, but choosing tequila–agave tequila specifically–over other types of alcohol when you do imbibe. Also, remember that tossing it in a shaker with super-sweet mixers will defeat the purpose. That makes drinking it straight a better choice–shots or poured over ice– the best would be to serve it with soda and citrus wedges. Diluting the tequila in that way will keep it from going straight to your head.
Be Smart
Get exercise out of the way before raising a glass of agave tequila with friends.
Tequila is still liquor, so in order for it to not hinder the exercise part of your regimen, you’ll want to time your drinking appropriately. The agavins may help in weight loss, but the alcohol can reduce protein synthesis which interferes with muscle building. Additionally, it can obstruct nutrient absorption and dehydrate you, both issues that get in the way of an effective workout. That’s why it’s best to work out before you drink, then take the following day off for recovery. You’ll have all the energy and hydration you need, your body will be able to perform optimally, and you’ll be ready to go again after your rest day. Salud!