The Strict Paleo View vs. The Flexible Approach
From a strict, traditional paleo perspective, alcohol, including tequila, is not considered part of the diet. This is because alcohol is a processed substance and a toxin, and it was not consumed by humans during the Paleolithic era. Followers of this strict interpretation would avoid all alcohol to align with the core principles of the diet.
However, many modern paleo followers adopt a more flexible, 80/20 approach to the diet, acknowledging that occasional enjoyment of certain foods or drinks can be consistent with overall health goals. This is where 100% agave tequila finds its place as a 'lesser evil' or 'paleo-friendly' option compared to grain-based alcohols like beer.
The Difference is in the Agave
Not all tequilas are created equal, and this distinction is critical for anyone on a paleo diet. Tequila comes in two main categories: 100% agave and mixtos.
100% Blue Agave Tequila
- Ingredient Purity: As the name suggests, this tequila is distilled exclusively from the fermented sugars of the blue agave plant.
- No Additives: By law, 100% agave tequila contains no additives or added sugars, making it a much cleaner spirit.
- Clean Distillation: The distillation process effectively removes any residual sugars or starches, resulting in a carb-free final product.
Mixto Tequila
- Added Sugars: Mixtos are legally required to contain only 51% agave sugars, with the remaining 49% coming from other sources, often including corn syrup, cane sugar, or molasses.
- Not Paleo: The presence of these non-agave, processed sugars makes mixto tequila definitively non-paleo.
Comparison Table: 100% Agave Tequila vs. Mixto Tequila
| Feature | 100% Agave Tequila | Mixto Tequila |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Ingredient | 100% Blue Agave | Minimum 51% Blue Agave |
| Added Sugars | None | Up to 49% added sugars (e.g., corn syrup) |
| Carbohydrates | 0 grams (post-distillation) | Varies, contains added sugars |
| Processing | Minimally processed (cooking, fermentation, distillation) | Heavily processed with additives |
| Paleo Compatibility | Considered a paleo-friendly option in moderation | Not paleo-friendly |
Choosing the Right Tequila for Your Paleo Lifestyle
When selecting a tequila, the label is your best guide. Always look for the words "100% Agave" or "100% Puro de Agave". If the label doesn't specify, it's safe to assume it is a mixto and should be avoided. Tequila blanco (silver) is often the cleanest option, as it is unaged and has not been exposed to wood barrels or other flavorings for a prolonged period.
Paleo-Friendly Tequila Cocktails and Mixers
Once you have your 100% agave tequila, it's crucial to be mindful of your mixers. Many standard cocktail mixers, like sweetened juice, tonic water, or soda, are loaded with sugar and artificial ingredients that are not paleo.
Acceptable Paleo Mixers:
- Sparkling water or club soda: A clean, sugar-free base for a refreshing drink.
- Fresh lime or lemon juice: Adds a zesty flavor profile and has minimal sugar.
- Herbal infusions: Muddle fresh herbs like mint, basil, or cilantro for unique flavors.
- Homemade syrups: Use small amounts of paleo-approved sweeteners like honey or maple syrup to create simple syrups, but remember moderation is key.
Simple Paleo Tequila Cocktail:
- Combine 100% agave tequila with fresh lime juice and club soda over ice.
- Add a sprig of fresh mint or cilantro for an herbal twist.
- This simple drink captures the essence of tequila without any processed additives.
Moderation and the Larger Context
Ultimately, whether you can have tequila on paleo depends on your personal health goals and philosophy. The core of the paleo diet is to minimize toxins and processed foods, and alcohol, by its nature, is a processed toxin. Incorporating even 100% agave tequila should be a conscious, moderate choice. Overindulgence can hinder your health goals, impact sleep, and potentially lead to poor food decisions. Enjoying a drink mindfully on a special occasion is far different from making alcohol a regular habit.
Why Agave Nectar is Not Paleo
It is important to differentiate between 100% agave tequila and agave nectar. Unlike the distilled spirit, agave nectar is a highly processed syrup that is primarily fructose. Its manufacturing process is similar to that of high-fructose corn syrup, stripping it of any natural health benefits found in the raw plant. Thus, while the tequila may be considered paleo-friendly, the sweetener derived from the same plant is not. More info from Paleo Foundation here.
Conclusion
For those following a flexible paleo lifestyle, 100% blue agave tequila can be an acceptable occasional indulgence. The key is to be a discerning consumer, checking labels to ensure you are avoiding mixtos with added sugars and artificial ingredients. By sticking to the purest forms of tequila and pairing them with paleo-friendly mixers, you can enjoy a cocktail without completely abandoning your dietary principles. As with all things outside the standard paleo food list, the principle of moderation is paramount.
