Ella's Mexico Diary: why I drink tequila here every day
When you think of Mexico, you immediately think of margaritas and tequila, of course. At least, that's what I think of right away. That's why I ordered a shot of tequila with lemon and salt on my first night in Mexico City. According to Mexican standards, I completely missed the mark here. In Mexico, they don't drink their tequila with a wedge of lemon and salt, no no, they drink it straight, without any fuss. And a shot isn't a shot, but just a glass from which you can take about three shots. So ordering tequila with lemon and salt is actually a no-go, but if you still want to do it, order a tequila cruda. Cruda probably means something like ‘dumb tourist’, but for now, I'll just order a cruda, because otherwise, I really can't handle that tequila.
Actually, I don't find tequila that nice at all. In fact: I didn't drink it for years because I got drunk and sick from it way too often. Here in Mexico, I've completely rediscovered it. There are countless types of tequila here, and sometimes they bring them all to your table so you can smell them and then choose which one you want. They all smell equally strong and nasty, and yet I order a shot every evening after dinner. I've discovered that tequila has quite a few health benefits. This is shown by scientific research, so it must be true, right? Here they come.
1. Tequila is good for your digestion
Tequila contains a prebiotic called inulin. Inulin helps the growth of good gut bacteria, creating balance in the bacteria. This balance contributes to the health of your intestines. Research has shown that people who use inulin have improved stool consistency. Perfect, then, to order a shot as dessert.
2. Tequila contains few calories
A shot of tequila contains about 60 calories, which is much lower than a glass of wine or a cocktail. Tequila is therefore a responsible drink when you want to stay in shape on vacation. Or when you want to get drunk in no time, but I wouldn't necessarily recommend that: runners are ultimately dead runners.
3. Tequila is good for your bones
Tequila contains substances that help your body absorb calcium and magnesium better. Both minerals are essential for keeping your bones healthy. This is shown by a (very surprising) Mexican scientist.
4. Tequila can lower your blood sugar
Research has shown that tequila can help to lower your blood sugar. This is due to the agave; tequila is made from the agave plant. Additionally, agave can help you feel full longer and faster. Well, I see a lot of benefits, but be careful: too much tequila gives you the worst hangovers. So don't drink more than one shot.
