Non-alcoholic beer has become increasingly popular in recent years, with many people wondering if it offers any health benefits compared to its alcoholic counterpart. While non-alcoholic beer does contain some vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that may provide certain advantages, it's important to understand both the potential benefits and limitations of this beverage choice.
Boosting Immune Function
Non-alcoholic beer may help boost immune function, particularly in athletes engaging in strenuous exercise. A 2012 study found that marathon runners who drank 1-1.5 L of non-alcoholic beer daily for 3 weeks before and 2 weeks after a race had a 3.25-fold lower incidence of upper respiratory tract illness compared to those who drank a placebo beverage.
The polyphenols in non-alcoholic beer, derived from ingredients like hops and malt, seem to be responsible for these immune-supporting effects.These polyphenolic compounds have strong antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antipathogenic properties that can help regulate the immune system. Specifically, the polyphenols in non-alcoholic beer have been shown to reduce inflammation markers like interleukin-6 and total blood leukocyte counts in athletes after intense exercise. Since strenuous physical activity can transiently suppress immune function and increase infection risk, the anti-inflammatory effects of non-alcoholic beer polyphenols may help counteract this and maintain a more robust immune defense.
In addition to benefiting athletes, the immune-boosting potential of non-alcoholic beer may extend to the general population as well. Polyphenol-rich diets are known to lower inflammation and regulate genes involved in the inflammatory response. Choosing non-alcoholic beer over alcoholic beverages can also prevent the negative effects of alcohol on immune function, as alcohol is an immunosuppressant that can impair the body's ability to defend against infections.
Supporting Gut Health
Non-alcoholic beer may also support gut health by increasing the diversity of beneficial bacteria in the digestive tract. A 2022 randomized, double-blind, controlled trial found that drinking 330 mL of non-alcoholic beer daily for 4 weeks increased gut bacterial diversity in healthy men without significantly changing body weight or fat mass. The polyphenols in beer seem to be responsible for this effect, as both non-alcoholic and regular beer consumption led to similar improvements in gut microbiome diversity and intestinal health markers like fecal alkaline phosphatase activity.
Enhancing Mental Well-being
Non-alcoholic beer may help enhance mental well-being by reducing anxiety and improving sleep quality. Studies have found that drinking 330 mL of non-alcoholic beer containing hop bitter acids during evening meals for 2 weeks decreased feelings of anxiety and stress in nurses and university students. The hops in non-alcoholic beer seem to be responsible for these effects by increasing the activity of the neurotransmitter GABA in the brain, which has a calming effect. Non-alcoholic beer consumption has also been shown to improve sleep quality, with reduced sleep latency and restlessness reported in stressed individuals.
Mood-Enhancing Non-Alcoholic Drinks
While non-alcoholic beer offers some health benefits, it may not provide the same relaxing sensation as alcoholic beverages, which can make it difficult for some people to stick with as an alternative. The lack of alcohol means non-alcoholic beer does not have the same psychoactive effects that can reduce anxiety and induce feelings of relaxation. However, some studies suggest that even the act of drinking a beverage that resembles beer can have a placebo effect, causing a mild "buzz" sensation in certain individuals. This is likely due to the learned associations between the taste, smell, and rituals surrounding beer consumption and the effects of alcohol. Drinking non-alcoholic beer in social settings or while engaging in activities typically associated with alcohol may help enhance this placebo response and make the transition to alcohol-free options more satisfying. Additionally, certain mood-enhancing non-alcoholic drinks are specially formulated with ingredients like L-theanine to promote relaxation without the negative effects of alcohol.
Best Overall Mood-Boosting Alcohol-Free Beer?
IMPOSSIBREW stands out as the healthiest all-around non-alcoholic beer option that also provides mood-enhancing benefits. With only 27 calories per 440ml can, or 6 calories per 100ml, it is one of the lowest calorie alcohol-free beers available. IMPOSSIBREW also contains no sugar, making it a great choice for those watching their carbohydrate intake.What really sets IMPOSSIBREW apart is its proprietary Social Blend™, a combination of science-backed ingredients designed to replicate the relaxing experience of drinking alcohol. This allows consumers to unwind and feel satisfied without the desire to drink alcoholic beverages, ultimately making it the healthiest net option.Despite its mood-boosting properties, IMPOSSIBREW contains less alcohol by volume than a ripe banana (0.5%), burger roll (1.2%), or even orange juice (up to 1%). So while it aids in relaxation, it does so without relying on the negative effects of alcohol consumption.
If you fancy a try, check out their welcome bundle with a love-it-or-return it guarantee today at https://impossibrew.co.uk/welcome.
