The Skinny:
Non-alcoholic liquors and beers are all the rage, offering a spirited take on non-alcoholic beverages that has captured the attention of many. WellWell has even reported on the rise of bars that specialize in serving non-alcoholic beverages. This growth has fueled a market that Statista reports will hit $1.6 billion in 2024. And greater growth is expected in the next few years. Some reasons for the demand should be obvious, every admirable. But are these beverages totally harmless? Maybe not. Read on for the plusses and minuses of these spirited drinks.
The Upsides:
Feelgood Mornings
Relying on non-alcoholic beverages obviously helps people avoid hangovers. But there are other immediate benefits to cutting back on spirits and beer. Excessive drinking can also disrupt REM sleep and impair sex drive. Excessive alcohol consumption also leads to more serious illnesses such as liver disease, heart disease, hypertension, cancer and poor immune functioning.
All-Inclusive Parties
Having non-alcoholic beverages available allows those who are uncomfortable drinking for any number of reasons to participate in social gatherings that center around alcohol. This can include anything from going out with colleagues to parties, weddings, birthdays, graduations, engagements, college sports events and Superbowl parties and, of course, occasions like New Year’s Eve, St. Patrick’s Day, Mardi Gras, Cinco de Mayo, Memorial Day and Fourth of July. In some ways, these non-alcoholic beverages are the great equalizers for teetotalers.
Social Improvements
Alcohol in excess impairs cognitive function, leaving some drinkers unaware they’ve become boring, out-of-control, sloppy or aggressive when they’ve had too much. Forbes even noted that boomers used to be ambivalent about alcohol substitutes, but now they’ve become the option of choice for sober and sober-curious younger generations, like Z.
Safe Buzz
A non-alcoholic beer may provide a classic Pavlovian response which results in the mere taste of one of these beers releasing a brain dopamine, aka the “feel good” chemical, even though it contains no alcohol. It’s the type of response that many might appreciate on a hot summer day or after a tough workout. The good news is the slight buzz created by this response won’t impair drivers’ perception and reflexes, which means it can help to avoid dangerous and illegal drunk driving.
Avoiding Alcoholism
Alcohol can be a slippery slope for some that can lead to a debilitating and dangerous addiction. It can disrupt families, and lead to unemployment, domestic problems and homelessness. Non-alcoholic beverages are seen as one mechanism to prevent this addiction from taking hold.
The Downsides:
Alcohol Traces
Some alcohol-free drinks still contain traces of alcohol This can confuse recovering alcoholics and make them feel like they are crossing a line into forbidden drinking. The potential physical and emotional responses to this situation can trigger alcohol abuse. If this is an issue, it’s best to avoid these drinks altogether.
Relapse Trigger
Alcohol substitutes may be so close to the real thing that they send signals that can lead to cravings and relapses for recovering alcoholics. Some authorities warn that the taste, look and even brand identification can lead alcoholics to pursue the full-strength version.
Costly Option
Even though non-alcoholic drinks aren’t subject to alcohol taxes, they often cost the same as the beverages they emulate. Many are manufactured in the same facilities that produce their alcoholic counterparts, but there’s an added production process to remove the alcohol, which can jack up manufacturing costs.
Adaptogenic Options
Alcohol-adjacent or adaptogenic drinks are a subset of non-alcoholic beverages that replace alcohol’s buzz with psychotropic effects from naturally occurring substances, But they are not risk-free. Since they’re not regulated by the Food and Drug Administration, their claimed benefits are not guaranteed. Beyond this, there’s little research on their side effects. Some even are known to interact negatively with prescription medications. They also can be expensive and high in calories. Check with a doctor before taking them, especially if pregnant.
The Bottom Line:
There are obviously pros and cons to non-alcoholic beer and drinks. Whether they are a net benefit or potential danger depends on each individual’s circumstances. If these drinks do pose a threat, there are other alternatives to non-alcoholic beers and wines. For example, try club soda or sparkling water with a bit of fresh juice or lime and soda.
Eyes Up:
What’s your take on non-alcoholic beverages? Let us know at info@wellwellusa.com.
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