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This may seem like a “cool” thing but it’s actually a red flag because it usually means your body adapted to the presence of alcohol taking place of your natural neurotransmitters. Your body adjusts and either loses receptor sensisitivity or stops producing regular levels of your natural GABA neurotransmitters, instead trying to get this feeling from exogenous sources (ie, alcohol). For some time now the beer industry and spirits sector has looked seriously at alcohol-free alternatives to their best-selling products. Alcohol-free beers now are arguably indistinguishable from their alcoholic cousins and there is an exploding market full of herbal tonics and botanical blends as the perfect substitute for gin and other spirits. According to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, nearly all people with alcohol addiction are malnourished in some way.
- Mindfulness practices are life-changing for many people but require a certain amount of dedication.
- This can happen to individuals who have been excessively drinking alcohol for a long period of time.
- Alcohol alternatives are a big buzz these days (pun totally intended).
- She devoted her life to the study of the connection between crime, mental health, and substance abuse.
Thanks to the fermentation process, kombucha isn’t exactly zero alcohol — it may still contain small amounts. Most of kombucha’s feel-good effects come from its healthy contents. Keep reading to discover Sunwink’s 10 favorite health alternatives to alcohol — which are sure to curb your alcohol use. If you feel your drinking has become more than a habit and has started to impact your family, job, or health, SAMHSA’s National Helpline provides free, confidential, and immediate support. They can help you find a local treatment center or provider to get the care you need.
CBD
The effects of taurine are more subtle than some of the others on this list. When I consume taurine, I notice an overall sense of calmness and relaxation wash over me without feeling intoxicated or impaired. Overall, it’s a nice blend of relaxation without sedation combined with improved cognition healthy alternatives to alcohol and energy levels. Picamilon is an excellent choice for those seeking a balance between tranquility and mental alertness without resorting to substances that may come with unwanted side effects. The diet boomed for its brain-boosting, appetite-reducing, and general health-improving effects.
It makes everyday local errands much more fun and fruitful, plus it’ll cut down on your gas usage. Set up a still life or find a beautiful location for inspiration, and dive into watercolor painting. Have a bonfire (make sure it’s contained properly and check current fire regulations for your area first). Spend time with your loved ones—or just have a quiet evening alone.
Alcohol addiction treatment options
Drinking alcohol comes with many great benefits and so many potentially terrifying side effects. Obviously, alcoholism is a major concern; you can become dependent on alcohol, which can be absolutely devastating to your health, finances, relationships, and life in general. And social media has been abuzz with the non-alcohol movement.
Or, you can buy traditional supplies online relatively affordably. L-Theanine – while there are L-theanine skeptics, the bulk of the research indicates benefits. L-theanine is the ingredient that gives green tea its soothing effect versus, say, coffee. L-theanine, and it’s cousin suntheanine, elevate levels of GABA and dopamine, both neurotransmitters that help us feel good.
Kava
Supplements like L-Theanine and Rhodiola Rosea are proven to help with stress, but are pills, not drinks. Mindfulness practices are life-changing for many people but require a certain amount of dedication. Overall however, all of these can be considered healthy alternatives to alcohol. Much like Matcha tea, adaptogens like reishi mushroom, lemon balm, and passionflower can be wonderful alternatives to alcohol thanks to the relaxing effect they have on the body. “Compounds such as adaptogens can aid in relaxation and switch us from fight or flight to rest and digest,” explains Cox.
“The lasting effects throughout the day of a short workout can provide the calming effect that you may be looking for in that after-work cocktail.” Our writers and reviewers are experienced professionals in medicine, addiction treatment, and healthcare. AddictionResource fact-checks all the information before publishing and uses only credible and trusted sources when citing any medical data. The Verified badge on our articles is a trusted sign of the most comprehensive scientifically-based medical content. If you have any concern that our content is inaccurate or it should be updated, please let our team know at [email protected]. It can be challenging to stand in a room of drinkers and control the urge to raise a glass along with everyone else.
There are plenty of alternative activities to drinking, like exercise and meditation, that can help distract you from wanting a drink if settling down with a glass of wine is part of your normal routine. However, our list notes all the exciting alcohol substitutes for those who still fancy a beverage or need something to drink with friends, without any nasty effects the following day. Whether you’re stopping drinking or you’re sober curious (considering a sober lifestyle), you’re likely looking for healthy alcohol alternatives.