Is Tito's Vodka Better for You? A Nutrition Diet Perspective on 'Why is Tito's vodka better for you?'

October 5, 2025 •

4 min read

A standard 1.5 oz shot of pure, unflavored vodka contains approximately 98 calories, but zero carbohydrates and sugar. When considering the claim, 'Why is Tito's vodka better for you?', it's crucial to examine specific attributes like its corn base and gluten-free certification within a broader nutrition context.

Quick Summary

Tito's vodka is naturally gluten-free and contains no carbs or sugar in its pure form. Its 'better for you' reputation stems from these factors, but it's important to remember that all alcohol must be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Key Points

Naturally Gluten-Free: Tito's is distilled from corn, making it a safe option for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.
Zero Carbs and Sugar: In its pure, unflavored form, Tito's contains no carbohydrates or sugar, making it suitable for low-carb diets.
Fewer Congeners: Multiple distillations and activated carbon filtration remove impurities that can contribute to a harsher taste and more intense hangovers.
Moderation is Crucial: The health impacts of alcohol depend on the amount consumed, not the brand; moderation is key to minimizing health risks.
Mixer Choice Matters: Any low-calorie or gluten-free benefits are lost when mixing with high-sugar beverages; opting for zero-calorie mixers is important.
Not a 'Health' Product: Vodka provides 'empty calories' from ethanol and should not be considered a healthy beverage in a nutritional diet.

The Relative Benefits of Tito's Vodka

When exploring why some perceive Tito's vodka as a "better" choice, it's important to recognize that any benefits are relative, particularly when comparing it to other types of alcoholic beverages. Ultimately, all alcoholic beverages contain "empty calories," meaning they provide energy without significant nutritional value. However, in specific dietary contexts, such as for individuals with gluten sensitivities or those following a low-carb diet, Tito's offers certain advantages that set it apart from some other options.

The Gluten-Free and Corn-Based Distinction

One of the most heavily marketed aspects of Tito's is its use of corn as the base ingredient, which makes it naturally gluten-free. For individuals with celiac disease or a gluten sensitivity, choosing a spirit distilled from corn, potatoes, or grapes provides assurance against accidental gluten exposure. While many vodkas derived from gluten-containing grains like wheat or barley are rendered gluten-free by the distillation process itself, some individuals may still prefer the peace of mind offered by a product made entirely from a non-gluten source.

The Role of Distillation and Purity

Tito's production involves distilling the spirit six times in old-fashioned pot stills, a process that is followed by filtration through activated carbon. The goal of repeated distillation and filtration is to remove impurities and create a cleaner, smoother-tasting spirit. These impurities, known as congeners, are byproducts of fermentation and can contribute to a harsh taste and potentially worse hangovers. A cleaner vodka might be seen as "better" by some simply because it results in a more pleasant drinking experience. However, it is essential to stress that this does not equate to the vodka being "healthy."

Nutritional Information and the Problem with Mixers

For those tracking their nutritional intake, pure vodka offers a clear advantage over many other cocktails. A 1.5-ounce serving of Tito's contains approximately 98 calories, 0 grams of fat, 0 grams of carbohydrates, and 0 grams of sugar. The nutritional issues often arise not from the vodka itself, but from what it is mixed with. Sugary mixers, like many sodas and juices, can drastically increase the calorie, sugar, and carbohydrate content of a drink. Choosing a simple mixer like club soda with a twist of fresh citrus can keep a vodka drink low in calories and carbs.

Comparing Tito's to Other Alcoholic Options

To understand the relative benefits, it's helpful to compare Tito's to other popular choices. The comparison highlights why a gluten-free, low-calorie spirit like Tito's is a preferred option for some, while also emphasizing that all alcohol should be consumed mindfully.


Beverage	Base Ingredient	Gluten-Free	Approx. Calories (1.5oz)	Approx. Carbs (1.5oz)	Notes
Tito's Vodka	Corn	Yes	98	0g	A low-calorie, zero-carb spirit, ideal for gluten-free diets.
Grain-Based Vodka	Wheat/Rye	Yes (via distillation)	98 (approx.)	0g (approx.)	Most distilled spirits are technically gluten-free, but may not be suitable for those with high sensitivities.
Beer (Craft IPA)	Barley/Hops	No	170+ (per 12oz)	15g+ (per 12oz)	Often high in calories and carbs due to fermentation process.
Red Wine	Grapes	Yes	125 (per 5oz)	4g (per 5oz)	Contains some carbohydrates and antioxidants, but more calories per serving than vodka.
Sugary Cocktail	Various	Varies	200-500+	High	The most significant source of non-beneficial calories, sugar, and carbs.

The Critical Role of Moderation in a Healthy Diet

Despite the specific characteristics that make Tito's a favorable choice within the world of alcoholic beverages, it's critical to emphasize the importance of moderation. The potential benefits of choosing a cleaner, gluten-free spirit are quickly erased by excessive consumption. Excessive alcohol intake has numerous negative health consequences, including a negative impact on nutrient absorption, metabolism, and organ health. Official dietary guidelines recommend limiting intake to help reduce health risks.

When considering alcohol as part of a nutritional diet, here are a few best practices:

Adhere to Recommended Limits: According to health guidelines, moderation means up to one drink per day for women and two drinks per day for men.
Choose Zero-Calorie Mixers: Pairing vodka with club soda, seltzer, or fresh citrus is a way to enjoy a drink without adding significant sugar or calories.
Prioritize a Balanced Meal: Never drink on an empty stomach. Eating a balanced meal before drinking slows alcohol absorption and helps mitigate its effects.
Don't View Alcohol as Healthy: It’s a treat, not a health tonic. Focus on a whole-food diet, exercise, and hydration as cornerstones of a healthy lifestyle.

Conclusion

So, why is Tito's vodka better for you? The answer is not that it is inherently healthy, but rather that it can be a relatively better choice within the category of distilled spirits, particularly for individuals with specific dietary needs. Its naturally gluten-free corn base and minimal congener content appeal to those with sensitivities or who prefer a cleaner taste. However, the most significant nutritional impact of any alcohol comes from consumption habits and mixers. The key to making Tito's—or any alcohol—a part of a responsible diet is always moderation. Health benefits come from what you do most of the time, not what you occasionally drink. For more detailed information on alcohol and your health, visit the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA) website.

The bottom line: why is Tito's vodka better for you?

Ultimately, no alcohol is "healthy," but Tito's is considered a more diet-friendly option because it is naturally gluten-free and contains zero carbs and sugar. These characteristics, combined with a clean distillation process, make it a favorable choice for those managing celiac disease, gluten sensitivity, or watching their calorie and carb intake, especially when mixed responsibly with zero-sugar options. The perception of it being "better" is based on these comparisons rather than on any inherent health benefits. Responsible consumption is always the most important factor.

Visit the NIAAA website for guidance on responsible drinking practices.

Frequently Asked Questions

No, no alcohol is inherently healthy. The perception that Tito's is 'better' is because it is naturally gluten-free and has zero carbs and sugar, which can be advantageous within certain dietary frameworks when consumed in moderation.

Tito's vodka is made from corn and is certified gluten-free. It's a safe choice for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.

A standard 1.5 oz serving of Tito's Handmade Vodka contains approximately 98 calories, with no carbs, fat, or sugar.

Yes, pure Tito's vodka is a zero-carb spirit, making it compatible with a low-carb diet. However, you must be mindful of the mixers you use to avoid adding carbohydrates.

To keep your drink diet-friendly, mix Tito's with calorie-free options like club soda or seltzer water. Adding fresh lime, lemon, or a dash of herbal bitters can provide flavor without adding sugar or carbs.

The repeated distillation and carbon filtration process results in a smoother, purer product with fewer impurities, known as congeners. This can lead to a cleaner taste, but it does not make the alcohol itself healthy.

While a purer vodka with fewer congeners might lead to a less severe hangover for some, this is highly individual. Hangovers are primarily caused by dehydration and alcohol's toxic effects, which are present regardless of the alcohol's purity.