A Nutritionist's Take on Non-Alcoholic Drinks

If you're considering quitting drinking or reducing your alcohol intake (or have already started), you may have noticed the growing variety of non-alcoholic drinks—often referred to as “mocktails”—on Instagram, restaurant menus, and at your local grocery store or market.

While restaurant or bar menus might offer limited options, online shops like Boisson provide a vast array of choices, which can sometimes feel overwhelming. With so many new non-alcoholic beverages available, it’s essential to know how to evaluate these options to support your health and sobriety goals.

As a Doctor of Nutrition specializing in sobriety and healing from long-term alcohol use, I have several considerations when choosing a non-alcoholic beverage. Here’s how I evaluate my options to help guide your decision-making: 

1. How Much Sugar Is in It?

   Sugar is a critical factor when selecting an alcohol-free drink. While we've come a long way from soda being the only option, many non-alcoholic beverages can still contain high sugar levels. Some drinks may pack as much as 20 grams of added sugar—nearly half of your daily recommendation! Look for beverages with 5 grams or less of sugar, or consider diluting sweeter drinks with seltzer to reduce the sugar content.

2. What Are the Ingredients?

   Choose Functional Ingredients:

   Look for drinks containing beneficial ingredients like L-theanine and Ashwagandha, which can help promote relaxation or uplift your mood. These functional beverages provide a nutritional boost by incorporating herbs and supplements that can enhance your overall well-being.

   Avoid Harmful Ingredients:

   In my previous work with food and wellness companies, I focused on “cleaning up” ingredient lists. Avoid products with artificial preservatives (like Potassium Sorbate and Sodium Benzoate), artificial sweeteners (like sucralose), and synthetic colorants (such as Blue #6, Red #40, Yellow #5, etc.).

3. What ‘Type’ of Drink Is It?

   Be mindful that some non-alcoholic drinks can be triggering. To avoid potential triggers, opt for unique flavors rather than beverages that closely mimic alcohol, like fake liquors, non-alcoholic wines, or mock margaritas. As a former wine drinker, I find that non-alcoholic wines can be too reminiscent of the real thing. Instead, try beverages with distinct flavors (like Ghia, Kin, or Hiyo) that don’t evoke memories of your previous drinking habits.

… And if all else fails, a good old La Croix or seltzer is always good choice :) :)

An Important Takeaway

When selecting non-alcoholic drinks or mocktails at a bar or restaurant, always confirm that they are genuinely alcohol-free. There have been cases where a mocktail ordered from a menu still contained alcohol. In these situations, a canned beverage can be a “safe bet” if available. Always double-check with your server to ensure you're making a safe choice!

My Favorite “Dr. Brooke Approved” Non-Alcoholic Drinks:

1. Curious Elixirs (No. 3 and No. 7)
2. Hiyo (Blueberry Lemon)
3. Drink Moment (Cherry Hibiscus)
4. Ghia (Lime)

To purchase these or to explore more options, head over to Boisson for nationwide delivery >>