Over the years, alcohol has been shown to be dangerous to the body. Even moderation consumption of alcohol could lead to short-term effects such as injuries, violence, miscarriages in pregnant women, etc. The long-term effects of alcohol can be very severe, as it can lead to terminal diseases such as liver problems, kidney, and hypertension.
Also, a 2016 Lancet study of 600,000 drinkers shows that those that consume 10-15 drinks per week have their life expectancy reduced by 1-2 years.
So, you have to replace alcohol consumption with healthy options if you want to live a healthier and happy life.
You will learn tips to stop alcohol consumption and healthy ways to replace alcohol (healthier drink options) as you journey into the article.
Tips to Stop Alcohol Consumption
Here are some effective tips you can employ to stop alcohol consumption. They are as follows:
- Identify your triggers and create a plan to manage them. If you drink when you are stressed, you have to seek other options to healthy stress-relieving options, such as swimming, jogging, playing sports, or visiting the cinema.
- Ensure your house is alcohol-free. This isn’t easy at first, but it is essential to keep everything associated with alcohol out of the house.
- Join community events or groups. Check for health groups within your community and join. They will give you the motivation to live healthily, which involves cutting off your alcohol consumption.
- Go for healthier drink options such as natural drinks or non-alcoholic drinks.
- Get an accountability partner that will keep you in check.
11 Healthy Ways to Replace Alcohol
Below are healthier options to replace alcohol. Check out to see which suits your taste and preference.
1. Low-fat drinks
Low-fat drinks, such as non-alcoholic beer, tiger nut drink, zobo, and Greek yogurt, flavored water, or juice, can be helpful in reducing or replacing alcohol consumption. By offering a similar experience as drinking alcohol, these low-fat drinks can be an effective alternative for individuals who are trying to reduce their alcohol intake.
2. Natural drinks
Natural drinks like smoothies, fruit drinks, and lemon water are rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, which can help to improve overall health and support the body’s recovery from the effects of alcohol.
3. Alcohol-free sparkling wines
Alcohol-free sparkling wines can serve as a replacement or alternative to alcoholic beverages for those who choose not to drink alcohol or are unable to do so due to personal, health or legal reasons. Alcohol-free sparkling wines can provide a similar taste and experience to traditional sparkling wines, while eliminating the effects of alcohol.
4. Alcohol-free gin
Alcohol-free gin is another good option made from brewed juniper distillate, steam-distilled ingredients such as cardamom, Sicilian lemon peel, coriander, Persian dried lime, and liquorice.
5. Iced water berries
Iced water with berries can be a refreshing and healthy alternative to alcohol consumption. It provides hydration and can offer a sweet and fruity taste, without the negative effects of alcohol. They are also suitable for hot seasons to keep you refreshed and relaxed
6. Virgin bloody mary
A virgin bloody mary is typically made with ingredients like tomato juice, spices, and citrus, which can provide vitamins and hydration. It can be an enjoyable and healthier option for those who want to avoid the risks associated with drinking alcohol.
7. Soda and fresh fruit
You can mix fresh fruit drinks with soda to get a unique taste and feel. They provide essential vitamins and nutrients without the harmful side effects of alcohol.
8. Virgin Mojito
Mojito without the rum contains about 35 to 40 calories, which translates to two spoons of sugar, making it a good option too.
9. Mocktails
Mocktails are also a good choice, but they are high in sugar. So you have to be conscious while taking it.
10. Non-alcoholic beer
This is a good alternative, especially when you take them in moderation.
11. Diet Drinks
Diet drinks contain less sugar than sugar-sweetened drinks. But they are not very good options as they have associated with an increased risk of obesity and type 2 diabetes and obesity. Examples include Coke Zero, Sprite Zero, Pepsi Max, Diet Coke, and so on.
Conclusion
Due to the adverse effects of alcohol on the body, it is wise to stay off it. You can substitute for any of the above healthy options. Although these are technically healthy ways to replace alcohol, you have to apply moderation in the consumption of healthier drink options, as too much can cause harm to the body.
