How Non-Alcoholic Beer Affects Sleep

Non-alcoholic beer might help you sleep better. Research shows it can reduce the time it takes to fall asleep, improve sleep quality, and lower anxiety. Key ingredients like hops boost relaxation by increasing GABA levels in the brain. Studies involving college students and nurses found significant improvements in sleep when they drank around 11 ounces of non-alcoholic beer with dinner.
Key Benefits:
- Fall asleep faster: Sleep latency reduced by 41% in one study.
- Better sleep quality: Measured improvements using the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI).
- Lower anxiety: Anxiety scores dropped after regular consumption.
- Relaxing compounds: Ingredients like xanthohumol and myrcenol promote calmness.
If you're looking for a natural way to improve sleep, non-alcoholic beer could be worth considering.
Research on Sleep Effects
Main Study Results
Research shows that drinking non-alcoholic beer at dinner can improve sleep. It has been linked to better subjective sleep quality and shorter time to fall asleep. These benefits were observed in various groups, including college students and nurses working night or rotating shifts .
This opens up opportunities to investigate what drives these effects.
Research Methods Used
Researchers used three main methods to measure sleep quality:
Method | Purpose | How It Was Done |
---|---|---|
Actigraphy | Tracks sleep patterns | Overnight monitoring with Actiwatch® |
STAI Assessment | Measures anxiety levels | Evaluated before and after consumption |
PSQI Evaluation | Assesses sleep quality | Conducted over three weeks |
These detailed approaches ensure the findings are reliable.
Sleep Quality Changes
In all groups studied, moderate evening consumption of non-alcoholic beer consistently reduced restlessness and the time it took to fall asleep. During stressful periods, drinking about 330 ml (11 ounces) of non-alcoholic beer was linked to shorter sleep latency and better sleep quality .
This suggests non-alcoholic beer could be a helpful option for improving sleep, fitting into broader wellness practices.
Is Non-Alcoholic Beer Better For You?
Sleep-Supporting Ingredients
Certain compounds in non-alcoholic beer, particularly from hops, can help with relaxation and reduce the time it takes to fall asleep.
Hops and Sleep
Hops are known to increase GABA levels in the brain, which helps promote relaxation. For example, a study involving nurses working rotating shifts showed that drinking about 333 mL of non-alcoholic beer with dinner reduced their sleep latency from 20.50 minutes to 12.01 minutes. This highlights the role of hops in improving sleep quality.
Active Sleep Compounds
In addition to hops, several active compounds contribute to sleep-related benefits:
Compound | Function | Sleep Effect |
---|---|---|
Xanthohumol | Flavonoid | Influences GABA receptors |
Myrcenol | Terpene | Acts as a sedative |
α-acid derivatives | Bitter acids | Encourages relaxation |
2-methyl-3-buten-2-ol | Degradation product | Boosts sedative effects |
These compounds work through different mechanisms to influence brain chemistry connected to sleep. For instance, bitter acids, which make up about 0.3% of traditional beer, are noted for their calming effects. Studies also found that participants consuming these compounds had lower anxiety scores (measured by the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory) and experienced quicker sleep onset compared to control groups.
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Sleep Quality Measurements
Research has identified several ways non-alcoholic beer can improve sleep, as shown by the following metrics.
Time to Fall Asleep
In a study involving 17 female nurses working rotating shifts, drinking 11.3 fl oz (333 mL) of non-alcoholic beer with dinner for 14 days significantly reduced the time it took to fall asleep. Participants fell asleep in an average of 12.01 minutes, compared to 20.50 minutes in the control group - a 41% decrease. This shorter sleep latency contributes to better overall sleep.
Sleep Length and Quality
Key findings highlight improvements in other sleep-related metrics:
Sleep Parameter | Improvement | Measurement Method |
---|---|---|
Sleep Movement Reduction | 27% reduction | Actigraphy monitoring |
Overall Sleep Quality | Improved (p < 0.05) | Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index |
Sleep Duration | Consistent | Sleep diary tracking |
For instance, students who consumed non-alcoholic beer with their evening meals reported better sleep quality scores using the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI).
User Sleep Reports
Practical experiences back up these findings. In one study, nurses working demanding shifts noted better sleep and reduced anxiety when they regularly consumed non-alcoholic beer. Additionally, customer feedback from IMPOSSIBREW® shows that 71% of users feel more relaxed after drinking non-alcoholic beer. These personal accounts further support the clinical evidence, suggesting non-alcoholic beer may play a helpful role in improving sleep.
Other Health Effects
Non-alcoholic beer doesn’t just help with sleep - it also has other perks that can support overall health.
Stress Relief
Studies suggest that non-alcoholic beer can lower stress levels. For instance, one study found that drinking non-alcoholic beer with 35 mg of matured hop bitter acids (MHBAs) daily for three weeks improved mood by decreasing anxiety and fatigue.
Mental Health Benefits
A three-week routine of drinking non-alcoholic beer has been linked to better mental health. It can reduce anxiety, depression, and fatigue while increasing mental energy. The natural compounds in non-alcoholic beer may also boost dopamine levels, which can help improve motivation and mood. This is a stark contrast to the long-term risks tied to alcohol consumption.
Alcohol vs. Non-Alcoholic Options
While alcoholic drinks may temporarily ease stress, they can negatively affect mental health over time. Alcohol can interfere with serotonin production and receptor sensitivity, leading to mood instability. Non-alcoholic beer, on the other hand, provides a steady mood lift without these downsides. Brands like IMPOSSIBREW® highlight these benefits, with 70% of users reporting a similar relaxation effect to traditional beer and 88% cutting back on their alcohol intake.
IMPOSSIBREW® Products
IMPOSSIBREW® combines sleep science and brewing expertise to create a range of non-alcoholic beers designed for relaxation.
About IMPOSSIBREW®
IMPOSSIBREW® has made a name for itself in the non-alcoholic beer industry. Its standout feature is the Social Blend™, a formula developed with the help of Dr. Paul Chazot, a Bioscience Professor and Chair of Pharmacology at Durham University. This blend mimics the calming effects of traditional beer while skipping the downsides.
Product Details
IMPOSSIBREW® offers a selection of non-alcoholic beers with added benefits:
Product | Features | Price | Highlights |
---|---|---|---|
Enhanced Lager | <0.5% ABV, Gluten-free, Vegan | From $3.75 | Crisp citrus notes with relaxing effects |
Enhanced Hazy Pale | <0.5% ABV, Vegan | From $3.75 | Tropical, fruity flavors with calming benefits |
Bestseller Bundle | 18 beers + free glass | $62.99 | A mix of varieties with a tasting guide included |
These beers are made using cryogenic fermentation, which keeps the natural ingredients intact while delivering an authentic taste. They’re crafted to offer the flavors of traditional beer while promoting relaxation and better sleep.
Sleep Benefits
The Social Blend™ formula includes key ingredients that support relaxation and sleep:
- L-Theanine: An amino acid that encourages alpha brain wave activity, helping you relax while staying alert.
- Ashwagandha Root: A herb known for reducing stress and supporting restful sleep.
- Vitamin B1: Helps with natural energy metabolism, aiding overall well-being.
A survey of 775 people revealed that 70.6% felt noticeable relaxation effects. With over 1,000 reviews, IMPOSSIBREW® maintains a customer satisfaction score of 4.8/5.
Summary
A study involving rotating-shift female nurses revealed that drinking 330 mL (11 oz) of non-alcoholic beer with dinner for 14 days reduced the time it took to fall asleep from 20.50 to 12.01 minutes. It also decreased sleep activity, pointing to more restful nights. These findings highlight several sleep-related benefits, which are outlined below.
Research has identified three main ways non-alcoholic beer can improve sleep:
- Shorter time to fall asleep (p < 0.05)
- Lower anxiety levels (scores dropped from 20.69 to 18.09)
- Better overall sleep quality
These effects are largely attributed to hops, which contain compounds that increase GABA levels, promoting relaxation. One study participant summarized this well:
"The moderate consumption of non-alcoholic beer will favor night-time rest, due in particular to its hop components, in addition to its other confirmed benefits for the organism."
Unlike alcoholic beer, non-alcoholic options encourage relaxation without compromising hydration. Another study showed that drinking non-alcoholic beer with 35 mg of matured hop bitter acids for three weeks significantly improved mood, reducing anxiety and fatigue levels.
For those dealing with high stress or irregular schedules, these findings suggest that adding non-alcoholic beer to an evening routine may naturally improve sleep. This aligns with earlier discussions on its active ingredients and overall health perks, further emphasizing its potential to support better rest.
Related Blog Posts
Got Questions?
Find our most commonly asked questions below or ask our AI Brewer for instant answers.
What is IMPOSSIBREW®?
IMPOSSIBREW® is a pioneering non-alcoholic beer brand based in the UK that aims to create the world's most complete alcohol alternative using patent-pending technology.
Founded by Mark Wong in 2021 and working with some of the world's best professors, scientists and expert brewers, IMPOSSIBREW® specialises in expertly crafted non-alcoholic beers designed to match full ABV beers in both taste and feeling.
Product Range
IMPOSSIBREW® offers a range of enhanced non-alcoholic beers, including:
- Enhanced Lager (0.5% ABV)
- Enhanced Pale Ale (0.5% ABV)
- Limited Editions (Seasonal)
Key Benefits
The key feature that sets IMPOSSIBREW® apart is its proprietary "Social Blend™" - a combination of active botanical ingredients and nootropics using patent-pending technology* designed to recreate the relaxing effects of alcohol without the negative side effects.
Along with record-breaking quality flavour that comes from a unique process without removing alcohol.
Social Blend™ Ingredients
Developed with leading scientists in top UK universities, Social Blend™ includes:
- L-Theanine
- Ashwaghanda
- Soluble Plant Fibres
- Vitamin B1
- Various Plant Extracts.
These ingredients are chosen for their potential to boost serotonin, promote relaxation, and create a calming effect similar to the "one or two pint feeling" without hangovers.
See more details on our very own research paper, with over 1,000 participants:
- More than 70% said they felt relaxed after consuming IMPOSSIBREW®.
- 88% have reduced alcohol consumption since discovering IMPOSSIBREW®.
- 95% have told a friend about IMPOSSIBREW® after trying.
- 3/4 say that IMPOSSIBREW® is "the most complete alcohol alternative currently available on the market today".
Recognition
IMPOSSIBREW® has received several notable achievements:
- Featured on BBC's Dragons' Den
- Awarded the first and only Gold Medal in the No/Low beer category from the London Beer Competition
- Received multiple industry Gold awards in categories against Full-ABV beers
- Most followed No/Low Alcohol brand on TikTok globally.
Mission and Vision
IMPOSSIBREW® is on a mission to redefine non-alcoholic drinking by creating better-than-alcohol alternatives for those who love beer but want to avoid the health risks associated with alcohol consumption.
The company aims to become the global leading alcohol alternative brand, focusing on helping people transition to a healthier mode of relaxation without the traditional issues and side effects of alcohol.
Production and Ingredients
IMPOSSIBREW® combines traditional brewing methods with their proprietary Social Blend™ along with patent-pending technology*
The beers are made with traditional brewing ingredients such as water, malted barley, wheat, hops, and yeast, in addition to the Social Blend™ components - leveraging their unique cryogenic fermentation process, which means no alcohol is ever removed from the product - ensuring the most authentic quality taste you've come to expect.
Who is it for?
IMPOSSIBREW® caters to consumers who:
- Are busy professionals and parents who would like to unwind with a drink but don't want the hangovers.
- Enjoy the taste and relaxing experience of beer
- Are looking for healthier alternatives to alcohol, with lower calories, carbs and sugar
- Want to avoid hangovers and other negative effects of alcohol consumption
- Are interested in functional beverages with potential mood-enhancing properties
By offering a unique product that aims to replicate both the taste and feeling of alcoholic beer, IMPOSSIBREW® is positioning itself at the forefront of the growing non-alcoholic beverage market.
Get Started Today
Give it a try today with our Welcome Bundle and get 2 Free Beers with your first purchase. Get it delivered straight to your door, risk-free with our 30-day money-back guarantee.
We hope you enjoy them as much as we do and we can't wait for you to try.
*Patent pending in the UK under application number GB2415685.3
How does 'Social Blend™' work?
Social Blend™ is our proprietary alcohol alternative made from a blend of science-backed ingredients using patent-pending technology*.
Designed to replicate the sensory and social relaxing experience of drinking, minus the headaches (and bad decisions).
Developed with Dr Paul Chazot, Bioscience Professor and Chair of Pharmacology at Durham University.
Key Components and Mechanisms
- L-Theanine:
- Ashwagandha Root:
- Vitamin B1 (Thiamine):
- Various nootropic herbs:
Benefits
- Relaxation: The blend promotes a state of relaxation without the sedative effects typically associated with alcohol.
- Mental Calm: By boosting alpha brain waves and serotonin levels, it helps maintain a calm and focused mental state.
- Stress Relief: The combination of L-Theanine, Ashwagandha, and Vitamin B1 helps mitigate stress and anxiety.
- Mood Enhancement: The inclusion these ingredients and other botanicals supports mood regulation and overall positive outlook.
IMPOSSIBREW®'s Social Blend™ is a carefully crafted combination of nootropic and adaptogenic ingredients designed to offer a relaxing and mood-enhancing experience without the drawbacks of alcohol. It leverages the natural properties of its components to promote relaxation, reduce stress, and enhance mood, making it a unique alternative to traditional alcoholic beverages.
(Read our latest research paper here)
*Patent pending in the UK under application number GB2415685.3
Do you ship overseas?
We ship to the UK Mainland for free when you spend over £35
We aim to expand internationally soon - stay tuned!
If you have any queries, feel free to email: hello(@)impossibrew.co.uk
How long will it take to get my orders?
For UK mainland deliveries, normal orders processed here will take 1-3 business days to arrive, with an optional upgrade to Next Day Delivery available (12pm cut-off).
Delivery details will be provided in your confirmation email.
How is 0.5% ABV alcohol-free?
Yes, we know it's confusing. Isn't 0.5% ABV still alcoholic? Officially, 0.5% ABV is classified as Dealcoholised.
- In fact, most things we consume daily have more than 0.5% ABV
- Burger Rolls - 1.2% ABV
- Orange Juice - 0.5% ABV
- Ripe Banana - 0.5% ABV
After more than 2 years of research, we've found that the 0.5% ABV from our natural brewing process significantly increases both flavour and mouthfeel - without spiking your blood alcohol level (BAC).
Is it really gluten-free?
Yes, IMPOSSIBREW® Enhanced Lager is gluten-free. Even though it contains wheat and barley, our beers have been third-party tested to contain less than 10 parts per million (PPM) of gluten, which meets the criteria to be listed as, and labeled gluten-free.
Does it have alcohol tax?
No. While it is true that our beers don't contain alcohol, and thus don't incur UK alcohol duty, we'd like to highlight some factors here that might be helpful in reflecting the value we provide.
- One-to-One Brewing Process: At IMPOSSIBREW, we take pride in our unique brewing techniques. Unlike other non-alcoholic beers, our products are never diluted, watered-down, or have their alcohol content removed - and some even dilute their alcoholic beers up to 5x. This means that our brewing process involves the same level of craftsmanship, time, and resources as a traditional craft beer, resulting in comparable production costs.
- Effective Nootropics: In our commitment to creating the most relaxing non-alcoholic beers, we utilise only the highest quality nootropics as our active ingredients, in safe and effectives dosages. At current alcohol tax rates for a 5% ABV beer, the cost of our nootropics more than double that. Instead of contributing the amounts as tax, why not have it contribute to the product quality itself?
- Small Scale Brewing: Currently, we operate on a smaller scale, which makes us less competitive than large, commercial brewers (often +10,000x our brewing size). As a growing business, we are passionate about our mission to create unique, high-quality non-alcoholic experiences, and we truly appreciate your support. As we continue to grow and expand our production capabilities, we look forward to passing on even more savings to our valued community!
At IMPOSSIBREW, we prioritise offering our customers an enhanced, premium, non-alcoholic beer experience by combining innovative brewing techniques, quality active nootropic ingredients, and award-winning taste. While our pricing may differ from other non-alcoholic competitors, we believe that the value proposition and unique experience our beers provide are well worth it.
At the end of the day, tasting is believing. So give it a try and let us know what you think - risk-free with our IMPOSSIBREW® Guarantee.
Who shouldn't drink IMPOSSIBREW®?
It is not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women, those with certain medical conditions like GI disorders or hypertension, or individuals taking specific medications such as antidepressants or blood thinners. If you fall into any of these categories, it's best to consult with your doctor first.
Ashwagandha can lead to overstimulation (i.e. restlessness) if taken alongside thyroid medication.
What is your philosophy?
For thousands of years, we had only one way to unwind together. One way to let our guards down. One way to bridge the gap between who we are and who we are with others.
Not because it was perfect. But because it was all we had.
We decided that wasn't good enough.
We exist because we believe in a world where social connection doesn't demand compromise.
Where being present with others doesn't mean being absent from yourself. Where letting go doesn't mean losing control.This isn't about removing alcohol. This is about something better.
Our Social Blend™ technology isn't an accident. It's the result of questioning everything we thought we knew about social drinking. About working with scientists to understand what we're really seeking in these moments of connection. About daring to imagine something that wasn't possible before.
We believe the greatest innovations don't just solve problems - they change how we live. They make us question why we ever settled for less.
That's what we're building. Not just a drink, but a new way forward. A future where social connection comes without compromise. Where tradition meets innovation. Where science meets ritual.
This is the future of social drinking.