“To everything there is a season,” says the Teacher in Ecclesiastes. And while it doesn’t specifically mention alcohol, the principle applies. Non-alcoholic beer opens up a world of enjoyment for those who love a good brew but need to avoid the booze. Here are ten perfect times to grab a non-alcoholic beer.
1. A First Date
Picking a non-alcoholic beer on a first date speaks volumes. It shows you’ve got class and can have fun without needing a liquid confidence boost. It might even kick off a meaningful chat about choices and habits, giving you a great conversation piece and earning you a favorable impression from the person sitting across from you.
2. A Long Bike Ride
I started drinking NA beer when I started training for a triathlon and found it to be a refreshing alternative. Non-alcoholic beer is packed with nutrients like electrolytes, polyphenols, carbs, and B vitamins, making it a great hydration source. Unlike regular beer, which dehydrates, non-alcoholic beer helps replenish what you need during a long ride. Sure, Gatorade and other sports drinks are handy, but non-alcoholic beer offers a natural alternative.
3. A Road Trip
When you’re on the road and the gas station cooler is overflowing with drink options, sometimes you’ve had enough caffeine, and another sugary soda or juice just won’t do. That’s when you wish for a cold, frothy IPA or lager that won’t get you tipsy. Enter non-alcoholic beer – your perfect road trip buddy. Make sure you pack them or pick them up at your grocery store since I have yet to find a gas station carrying NA options… I’m hoping this is something that we at Bright Barrel can soon address.
4. Beer for Breakfast
Why not start your day with a non-alcoholic beer? It’s low in calories and packed with nutrients. Plus, you get the delicious taste of beer without the energy-draining effects of alcohol. It’s a refreshing way to kickstart your morning.
5. Exam Day
While other students are nervously sipping coffee, you can sip on a non-alcoholic beer. It hydrates you and provides a relaxing, comforting feeling, that may be just what you need to stay calm and focused.
6. Work Lunch Break
Bring a six-pack of non-alcoholic beer to share with colleagues. It’s a fun conversation starter and may be exactly what you need to put a bit more “Fight Club” into your cubicle life. Bring your half-finished can to your afternoon meeting for a flavorful, refreshing twist on what otherwise would have been another mind-number.
7. Pregnant & Breastfeeding
I want to start this one with a disclaimer: I’m not a health professional and you should consult your physician. However, it is common knowledge that pregnant and breastfeeding mothers should avoid alcohol. So if the pregnant cravings tend towards some combination of malts and hops… definitely reach for something that combines those and is alcohol-free. There are also some studies that suggest alcohol-free beer may boost breast milk supply. Always ensure what you’re drinking truly adheres to alcohol-free standards to avoid harming your child.
8. The Ball Game
Anyone who has had too much beer at a sports game knows the feeling of being drained and woozy, and realizing you still have a full quarter of a game to go. Why not ask for the non-alcoholic one next time the beer vendor comes by so you can enjoy the flavor, but bring up the hydration and vitamins that the alcohol drained out of you?
9. Networking Events
Like a first date, you want to stay sharp during networking events since you certainly have a lot of people to impress. Non-alcoholic beer lets you enjoy a cold one without compromising your mental edge. It’s a classy choice that keeps you at the top of your game.
10. Mowing the Lawn
Last time you mowed the lawn you thought the idea of sipping a couple cold ones sounded so great, but between that sun and those beers you probably felt drained and dehydrated half-way through what should have been a pleasant experience. Try grabbing a cold NA beer to keep up your hydration levels, and keep you cool.
Final Thoughts
Non-alcoholic beer offers a refreshing, flavorful alternative for many occasions. Whether it’s a first date, athletic training event, or a work lunch, non-alcoholic beer provides the enjoyment of beer without the downsides of alcohol. Make sure to follow Bright Barrel to stay tuned to our upcoming non-alcoholic products and keep informed about what is happening in this exciting space!