The rise of non-alcoholic beer has taken the world by storm. With less alcohol but all the flavor, it’s no wonder these brews are making a splash. But what about the side effects of non-alcoholic beer?
We’re used to worrying about the side effects of alcoholic beer. So do we need to worry about the side effects of non-alcoholic beer too?
Below, we list nine side effects of non-alcoholic beer to be aware of, so you have all the info you need before you open that next can.
9 Side Effects of Non Alcoholic Beer
1. Feeling Full and Bloated
Non-alcoholic beers still contain some of the same ingredients as their boozy counterparts, such as barley, hops, and yeast. These ingredients can lead to a feeling of fullness and bloating, particularly if you’re not used to them.
2. Effects of Increased Sugar Intake
Some non-alcoholic beers contain added sugar to improve the taste. Over time, increased sugar consumption can lead to weight gain and even conditions like Type 2 Diabetes.
Always check the label if you’re mindful of your sugar intake.
3. Dehydration
While non-alcoholic beer contains less alcohol than regular beer, it can still be dehydrating. This is due to the diuretic effect of the remaining alcohol and the high amount of sugars.
Make sure to drink plenty of water alongside your non-alcoholic brew.
4. Potential Alcohol Cravings
For some individuals, particularly those in recovery from alcoholism, drinking non-alcoholic beer can lead to cravings for alcoholic beverages. If this is a concern for you, it might be wise to steer clear of non-alcoholic beer.
5. Effects of Gluten
Many non-alcoholic beers are made with barley, which contains gluten.
If you’re gluten-intolerant or have celiac disease, you’ll need to choose a gluten-free non-alcoholic beer to avoid symptoms like bloating, diarrhea, and stomach pain.
6. Nutrient Deficiency
This is pretty low-risk – unless you’re drinking non-alcoholic beer every day, and in place of other drinks – but non-alcoholic beer doesn’t offer much in terms of nutrition.
Consuming it in place of nutrient-dense beverages could lead to deficiencies in essential vitamins and minerals.
7. Potential Sleep Disruption
Despite having less alcohol, the small amount present in non-alcoholic beers may still impact your sleep. Alcohol is known to disrupt the sleep cycle, leading to poor quality sleep.
8. Possible Allergic Reactions
Ingredients like hops, barley, and yeast can cause allergic reactions in some people. Symptoms may include itching, swelling, sneezing, or hives.
9. Weight Gain
Non-alcoholic beer, like other beers, contains calories. If you don’t balance your intake with exercise, it could contribute to weight gain.
Non-Alcoholic Beer Side Effects: The Bottom Line
Non-alcoholic beers can be a great choice for those looking to reduce their alcohol intake. However, like any food or beverage, non-alcoholic beer does come with its own set of potential side effects and even dangers.
The nine potential side effects of non-alcoholic beer are:
- Feeling full and bloated due to ingredients like barley, hops, and yeast.
- Increased sugar intake, as some non-alcoholic beers contain added sugar.
- Dehydration, due to the diuretic effect of remaining alcohol and high sugar content.
- Potential alcohol cravings, particularly for those in recovery from alcoholism.
- Gluten intolerance reactions, as many non-alcoholic beers are made with barley, which contains gluten.
- Nutrient deficiency, if non-alcoholic beer is consumed in place of nutrient-dense beverages.
- Potential sleep disruption, due to the small amount of alcohol present.
- Possible allergic reactions to ingredients like hops, barley, and yeast.
- Weight gain due to the caloric content of non-alcoholic beer.
It’s always wise to listen to your body and consult with a healthcare professional if you have any concerns.
Remember, moderation is key, even with non-alcoholic beer!