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Science Behind Non-Alcoholic Beer and Emotional Health
Non-alcoholic beer is more than just a substitute for traditional beer - it offers potential benefits for emotional well-being, stress relief, and sleep quality. Research highlights key findings:
- Mood Improvement: Ingredients like hop bitter acids and L-theanine help reduce anxiety and depression over a few weeks.
- Better Sleep: Drinking non-alcoholic beer in the evening improves sleep quality by promoting relaxation.
- Stress Relief: Compounds such as ashwagandha and matured hop bitter acids lower stress markers without the risks of alcohol.
- Brain Function: Flavonoids like xanthohumol enhance cognitive flexibility and memory.
Quick Comparison of Key Ingredients and Benefits
| Ingredient | Benefit | Research Insight |
|---|---|---|
| Hop Bitter Acids | Reduces anxiety | Improves mood over 3 weeks |
| L-theanine | Promotes relaxation | Encourages alpha brain wave activity |
| Ashwagandha | Eases stress | Supports serotonin pathways |
| Xanthohumol | Boosts memory | Enhances cognitive flexibility |
Non-alcoholic beer is gaining popularity as a functional beverage, offering a healthier, alcohol-free option to support emotional health and overall well-being. Read on to explore the science, research gaps, and how products like IMPOSSIBREW® are shaping this trend.
Is Non-Alcoholic Beer Better For You?
Stress and Anxiety Effects
Recent studies have highlighted how non-alcoholic beer can influence stress and anxiety levels. Researchers have found that certain compounds in these beverages help improve emotional well-being - without the downsides linked to alcohol.
Ingredients That Help with Stress
The stress-relieving effects of non-alcoholic beer come from specific compounds. For instance, research shows that hop bitter acids can positively affect anxiety and depression when consumed over a three-week period [1]. Other ingredients like L-theanine encourage alpha brain wave activity, while ashwagandha supports the body’s ability to handle stress [2].
Here’s a quick breakdown of these compounds and their benefits:
| Compound | Benefit | Research Insight |
|---|---|---|
| Hop Bitter Acids | Boosts Mood | Improves overall mood over 3 weeks [1] |
| L-theanine | Regulates Brain Waves | Promotes alpha brain wave activity [2] |
| Ashwagandha | Aids Stress Management | Encourages relaxation [4] |
These ingredients provide a natural way to ease stress. But how do non-alcoholic options stack up against traditional alcoholic beverages?
Comparing Alcoholic and Non-Alcoholic Effects
Non-alcoholic beer stands out as a safer choice for stress relief compared to alcoholic drinks. Research shows it can lower urinary levels of 5-HIAA, a compound tied to anxiety, without the risks of addiction or other alcohol-related issues [5].
"Non-alcoholic beer containing matured hop bitter acids has been suggested as a potential choice for maintaining mood states in daily life", according to a study in Nursing & Health Sciences [1].
One study revealed that drinking 330 ml of non-alcoholic beer daily for 14 days reduced both stress and anxiety [5]. Unlike alcoholic beer, it helps manage anxiety indicators like 5-HIAA while avoiding dependency and preserving mental clarity.
These findings open the door to investigating how non-alcoholic beer can also affect sleep and overall mood.
Sleep Quality Research
Scientific studies have highlighted how non-alcoholic beer can positively influence sleep patterns. A 2022 study involving 97 healthy adults showed noticeable improvements in sleep quality after consuming non-alcoholic beer with specific active compounds [1].
Sleep-Related Compounds
Non-alcoholic beer owes its sleep-supporting benefits to a mix of active ingredients. Key among these are matured hop bitter acids, which help improve mood and reduce anxiety - two crucial factors for better rest [1].
| Compound | Sleep Benefit | Research Finding |
|---|---|---|
| Matured Hop Bitter Acids | Better Sleep Quality | Marked improvement in sleep patterns over 3 weeks [1] |
| L-theanine | Relaxation | Encourages relaxation via alpha brain wave activity [2] |
| Ashwagandha | Sleep Cycle Support | Helps maintain natural sleep cycles by easing anxiety [2] |
These ingredients work together to improve sleep without the side effects associated with alcohol.
Best Practices for Sleep
Research suggests simple steps to maximize the sleep benefits of non-alcoholic beer. Evening consumption appears most effective, as it aligns with the body's natural circadian rhythm [5].
"Non-alcoholic beer significantly improved mood and sleep quality after a 3-week intervention" [1].
To get the best results, consider these tips:
- Drink 330 ml of non-alcoholic beer during your evening meal.
- Opt for products with confirmed hop bitter acid content.
- Leave enough time between drinking and going to bed.
Mood and Brain Function
Non-alcoholic beer ingredients do more than just help with stress and sleep - they also support emotional well-being by positively influencing mood and brain function. Recent studies show how these ingredients can boost mental health and cognitive performance without the downsides of alcohol.
Mood Effects
Research highlights that matured hop bitter acids can improve mood by increasing GABA activity in the brain, which helps promote relaxation [1]. Additionally, certain hop compounds are linked to better brain health, going beyond just relaxation.
Mental Performance Impact
Studies from Oregon State University have identified xanthohumol, a flavonoid in hops, as a key player in improving cognitive flexibility and memory formation [3].
"This flavonoid [xanthohumol] and others may have a function in the optimal ability to form memories." - Professor Kathy Magnusson
Ingredient Effects Chart
| Compound | Primary Effect | Research-Backed Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Matured Hop Bitter Acids | Mood Support | Reduced anxiety and improved emotional states over 3 weeks [1] |
| Xanthohumol | Cognitive Improvement | Boosted cognitive flexibility and memory formation [3] |
| Iso-α-acids (IAA) | Dopamine Regulation | Increased dopamine activity in key brain areas [3] |
Research led by Cristina Airoldi at the University of Milano-Bicocca also found that Tettnang hop extracts, commonly used in lagers, deliver notable cognitive benefits [3].
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Research Gaps and Next Steps
Research into the effects of non-alcoholic beer on emotional health shows potential, but there are still areas that need more exploration. Current studies have limitations that future research must address to provide a clearer picture.
Current Study Limitations
One major issue is the small size and short duration of most studies. For instance, a study on matured hop bitter acids only included 97 participants over three weeks [1]. This makes it hard to draw conclusions about long-term outcomes.
Here’s a summary of the key challenges:
| Research Limitation | Impact | Improvement Needed |
|---|---|---|
| Small Sample Sizes | Weak conclusions | Larger studies with 500+ participants |
| Short Duration | Unknown long-term effects | Multi-year follow-ups |
| Placebo Control | Uncertain results | Double-blind controlled trials |
| Population Diversity | Limited applicability | More diverse participant groups |
Tackling these challenges is crucial to better understanding the potential benefits of non-alcoholic beer on emotional well-being.
Research Needs
To deepen our knowledge, future studies need to focus on several key areas:
"Drinking 330 mL of NAB during evening meals may decrease anxiety and stress, but research is still in its early stages." - Franco et al., 2014
While compounds like L-theanine and ashwagandha are known for their calming effects, how they interact within non-alcoholic beer remains unclear [2][4]. Independent studies are needed to validate claims made by manufacturers, even as industry partnerships continue to push advancements.
Key research priorities include:
- Exploring how individual traits and lifestyle choices impact the effects of non-alcoholic beer
- Conducting long-term studies to track emotional health outcomes
- Investigating how specific ingredients influence brain chemistry
IMPOSSIBREW® Case Study
IMPOSSIBREW® showcases how manufacturers can connect scientific research with consumer demands by creating products backed by evidence. Their work taps into the growing interest in functional beverages aimed at supporting emotional well-being.
Social Blend™ Technology
IMPOSSIBREW®'s proprietary Social Blend™ combines nootropics and adaptogens to mimic the relaxing effects of alcohol, focusing on reducing stress and promoting relaxation. Developed in collaboration with Dr. Paul Chazot from Durham University, this blend is rooted in pharmacological research to ensure its efficacy [2].
"The collaboration with Durham University's expertise in pharmacology and biosciences helps ensure that Social Blend™ is based on sound scientific principles, enhancing its effectiveness and reliability." - Dr. Paul Chazot [2]
Customer feedback has been promising, with 70.6% of users reporting positive relaxation effects from Social Blend™, supporting its effectiveness with real-world data. The blend includes L-theanine and ashwagandha in a unique formulation specifically designed to promote relaxation and stress relief.
Product Details
IMPOSSIBREW® has addressed the challenges of formulation to deliver products that support emotional health. Their temperature-controlled brewing process preserves active compounds while enhancing flavor and maintaining the sensory qualities of traditional beer [4].
The products are low in calories, vegan, and gluten-free, making them suitable for a variety of dietary preferences. This approach balances inclusivity with a focus on emotional well-being [2][4]. By combining scientific research with thoughtful product development, IMPOSSIBREW® demonstrates how non-alcoholic beverages can effectively support emotional health.
IMPOSSIBREW®'s work underscores the potential of non-alcoholic beers in promoting emotional well-being, opening doors for future advancements in this space.
Summary
Research has shown that consuming non-alcoholic beer can have a positive effect on emotional well-being. Studies highlight several ways these beverages can support mental health and cognitive function.
One study, which included adults aged 23-72, found that drinking non-alcoholic beer with matured hop bitter acids for three weeks improved overall mood. Participants experienced reduced anxiety, depression, and fatigue, along with increased energy levels [1].
Non-alcoholic beer has also been linked to better sleep. For example, studies involving work-stressed nurses found that drinking 330ml of non-alcoholic beer during evening meals improved sleep quality. Participants reported falling asleep faster and experiencing less restlessness at night [5]. Since quality sleep is essential for emotional stability, this is a noteworthy benefit.
The emotional health benefits of non-alcoholic beer are tied to compounds like xanthohumol, which enhance GABA activity, promoting relaxation. Additionally, the taste of non-alcoholic beer can trigger dopamine release in individuals who associate it with relaxation. PET scans confirm that this dopamine release mimics the psychological effects of traditional beer, offering a similar sense of pleasure without the alcohol [1].
| Emotional Health Benefit | Research Finding | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Mood Improvement | Better total mood state | 3 weeks |
| Better Sleep | Reduced sleep latency and restlessness | 2 weeks |
| Anxiety Relief | Lower anxiety levels with evening consumption | 14 days |
Hops play a key role in increasing GABA activity, which helps with relaxation and mood. Non-alcoholic beer’s ability to reduce sleep issues further supports emotional health by promoting more stable moods [5]. Brands like IMPOSSIBREW® are taking this a step further by incorporating functional ingredients, such as their Social Blend™, to enhance these benefits. Combining traditional brewing with functional ingredients could shape the future of emotional wellness beverages.
The dopamine response from non-alcoholic beer highlights how it can offer the enjoyable effects of traditional beer without the negatives of alcohol. These findings suggest that non-alcoholic beer has growing potential as a functional beverage, opening doors for further developments in emotional health solutions.
FAQs
Does non-alcoholic beer affect anxiety?
Research shows that non-alcoholic beer can help reduce anxiety levels. Studies found that drinking non-alcoholic beer during evening meals for two weeks led to noticeable improvements in anxiety markers [5].
Certain compounds like matured hop bitter acids, L-theanine, and ashwagandha play a role in promoting relaxation and improving mood. These effects are linked to how these ingredients impact serotonin levels in the brain [5].
| Compound | Effect on Anxiety | Mechanism |
|---|---|---|
| Matured Hop Bitter Acids | Lowers stress levels | Enhances overall mood |
| L-theanine | Encourages relaxation | Affects alpha brain wave activity |
| Ashwagandha | Reduces anxiety | Supports serotonin pathways |
"IMPOSSIBREW® offers a functional alternative to alcohol, promoting relaxation and better sleep, as noted by Dr. Paul Chazot." [2][4]
Non-alcoholic beer, especially those with added functional ingredients like matured hop bitter acids, has been shown to ease stress naturally over short periods. This makes it a practical option for managing daily stress without the drawbacks of alcohol [1][5].
Functional ingredients such as L-theanine and matured hop bitter acids enhance these benefits by targeting stress and mood regulation directly. Research supports the use of non-alcoholic beer as a natural way to reduce stress [1].
These findings highlight the growing appeal of non-alcoholic beer as a beverage that supports emotional health. It offers a natural, healthier alternative to traditional methods of stress relief, aligning with the increasing interest in functional drinks for mental well-being.
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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.
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