Margaritas are a traditional Mexican drink that are composed to tequila, lemon, lime, or strawberry puree, and simple syrup. While these drinks are delicious, they are not necessarily a great choice if you are looking for a healthy drink. The high calorie, sodium, and alcohol content, combined with a dangerous effect on blood sugar levels, can all contribute to major concerns when it comes to the consumption of margaritas. Be sure to think twice about ordering them the next time you're at a Mexican restaurant.
High Calorie Content
One of the most important reasons why it is very important to skip the margaritas at a Mexican restaurant is due to the high amount of calories found within these drinks. Obviously, one of the major components of a margarita is tequila. Tequila is composed almost primarily from alcohol, which contains as many as seven calories per gram. Compare this to protein and carbohydrates, both of which contain only around four calories per gram. Therefore, the alcohol alone in margaritas contributes to their very high calorie content. In addition, the mixers that are added to the tequila to make the margarita are often very calorically dense, and therefore can be linked to the development of obesity.
High Sodium Content
Another reason why you should consider skipping the margaritas as a Mexican restaurant is due to their high sodium content. High sodium intake has been linked to a number of serious health conditions, including cardiovascular disease, stroke, and even death. In addition, high sodium intake can lead to water retention, which can actually lead to substantial weight gain. Even if you don't have your margarita glass rimmed in salt, you are still likely to get a high amount of dietary sodium in your drink. Most alcoholic mixers, including those used to make margaritas, are typically loaded with high amounts of salt.
Effect on Blood Sugar Levels
Margaritas can also cause major issues in regards to the regulation of your blood sugar. As with other foods that contain high amounts of simple sugars, margaritas can contribute to a huge spike in blood sugar levels, followed by a rapid crash. This can lead to feelings of dizziness, nausea, and in severe cases can even lead to unconsciousness. In general, alcoholic drinks that are made with simple sugars should be avoided whenever possible in order to ensure optimal health.
Alcohol Content
Finally, one last reason to avoid the margaritas at Mexican restaurants is due to the alcohol content. You're probably thinking "but this is why I want the margarita!" However, unlike the margaritas that you make at home, the margaritas at Mexican restaurants may contain twice, or in some cases, even three times the amount of alcohol. This can lead to serious concerns, especially when it is time to drive home at the end of the night. For best results, if you must have a margarita at a Mexican restaurant, ask them to use only one ounce of liquor.
