The Hidden Risks of Non-Alcoholic Beers and Mocktails
Episode Overview
Non-alcoholic drinks can trigger old drinking behaviours. Conditioned brain responses play a significant role in sobriety. Emotional and mental stages of relapse can be triggered by non-alcoholic drinks. Investing time in recovery efforts is more beneficial than focusing on drink choices. Each person must make informed decisions based on their unique triggers.
"We're drinking all these beers, putting in the work, but we're not getting the buzz".
Angela Pugh, the host of Addiction Unlimited, dives into the hot topic of non-alcoholic beers and mocktails in this episode. Are these popular alternatives a safe choice for those in recovery? Angela shares her own experiences and the research behind the potential risks of these drinks, especially for those who are early in their sobriety journey. With her characteristic no-nonsense approach, she breaks down how even alcohol-free options can trigger old drinking behaviours and conditioned responses in the brain.
Angela's story about her early sobriety days, trying non-alcoholic beer at a UFC fight, brings humour and relatability to the discussion. She explains how her brain was tricked into expecting the usual buzz, highlighting the psychological complexities involved. The episode also touches on the broader implications of drinking behaviour, whether it’s obsessing over what’s in your glass or spending excessive time searching for the perfect mocktail recipe.
Angela argues that this focus can divert valuable energy away from more meaningful recovery efforts. She emphasises that each person must make their own informed decision, considering their unique triggers and habits. For anyone navigating sobriety, this episode offers a thoughtful examination of a seemingly simple choice, urging you to reflect on what truly supports your long-term recovery. Tune in for an eye-opening discussion that balances science, personal anecdotes, and practical advice.