Beer...for the Health of It

Getting onboard with an alcohol free lifestyle is getting easier thanks to the increase of low or no alcohol beverages on the market these days. Nielsen CGA reports that the demand for these drinks will increase in 2020 and beyond. The younger generations are  leading the change with a growing wellness mindset.

The reasons people drink and the reasons people quit drinking are as varied and unique as the consumers. 

The NA drink trend however, is expected to continue.  Forbes reports 20% of Americans are considering sober months like Dry January and Sober October. There was a 26% increase in non-alcoholic beer volume nationwide over the Fourth of July holiday. 

Athletes are embracing the non alcoholic beer trend at the end of a work out for the anti-inflammatory properties of hops, and digestive benefits. Low and zero alcohol beer does not dehydrate you and may even increase your immune system by fighting off bacteria and disease.   

NPR reported taking a break from booze has many benefits for everyone anywhere on a spectrum of sober curious to those in recovery. 

Chris Marshall, was dependent on alcohol and found loneliness in recovery. This lead him to creating Sans Bar, a sober bar in Austin. Sans Bar is a place where people can get together for conversation, met sober friends, listen to music and, of course, try nonalcoholic drinks. Sans Bar continues to grow, open in new locations across the country. 

I find a substitute beverage is a perfect sober tool for living an alcohol free life. Embracing the non- alcoholic beverage trend has provided many of the benefits alcohol used to give me, without the regretful side effects. Here’s a few ways non alcoholic beverages help.  

1-Social Anxiety 

Here’s the truth: the first 15 minutes to ½ hour of any gathering can feel awkward. Many people head to the bar to escape that uncomfortable feeling, especially when faced with a forced networking opportunity such as a work event. It’s not only the alcohol that provides relief from this discomfort, it’s the anticipation of getting a drink that provides relief. A non alcoholic drink provides that same relief for me, without any regrets, embarrassment, or adverse health effects. It gives me something to do, something to accomplish (getting a drink), something to do with my hands, and something to talk about (what are you drinking?). 

2-No one likes a party pooper

I have found that my alcohol free life is far more interesting than the life I lived when I was drinking. Yet, I can’t deny the stigma that sober is boring. It is not boring for me, however, having a drink in my hand that resembles an adult beverage, takes away the otherness spotlight on my not drinking. Not having my sober life be the topic at a booze filled party provides relief for me. Others can judge if they are having a good time with me based on our connection and not by what I am drinking (who cares anyway?). Many assume that I am drinking alcohol, because I am extroverted, love to laugh, and was voted class clown in high school. I don’t need a drink to have fun, but it's nice to not feel like I have to announce my sobriety either and avoid questions just by having a drink option that doesn’t scream “why aren’t you drinking?” 

3-I like the taste

As a recovery coach, people tell me they like the taste of beer, wine, or liquor. I like to refer them to Belle from Tired of Thinking About Drinking. Belle says you might like the taste of corn on the cob too but you don’t go around trying to moderate it. You aren’t concerned if you have it two nights in a row. You don’t leave your house at 10 pm to get more corn on the cob. Alcohol is a drug. Alcohol is a Class 1 carcinogen. It affects how the body and mind function. If you do like the taste of alcohol, but do not want the dangerous outcomes of alcohol you are in luck. I have tried many of these craft brewed beers and even a prosecco and I am impressed. I did a taste test with my drinking friends and no one can tell the difference between the alcoholic and non alcoholic brews. If you are like Huey Lewis and want a new drug, one that won’t make you sick, this is the answer. 

 4- Drinking is fun

I agree. My vote is to treat yourself to some non alcoholic craft brews, whether you are going alcohol free for a specific event, a period of time, or forever. You can have fun experimenting with new drinks, anything from kombucha, hops tea, beer, wine or gin. A truly experienced mixologist loves the challenge of coming up with creative ways to incorporate flavors into non alcoholic mocktails as well. Not drinking alcohol is not a punishment you are allowed to have fun, enjoy drinks, and socialize. 

You don't have to stick to tap water, toddler juice boxes, or overly sweet drinks filled with sugar. If you are in recovery and going to a liquor store is a trigger for you, no problem, head to NA Craft Beverages to have it delivered to your door. 

My top advice for anyone ditching the drink is to find an alternative beverage to kick those cravings to the curb!