What to drink when you’re not ‘drinking’: Alternatives to alcohol

As Aussies, many of us drink alcohol to relax and socialise - especially when we come to the busy social summer season. But we know that alcohol can have a big impact on our health, both physical and mental.

There are plenty of reasons not to drink, or to reduce the amount we drink. You might be on a health kick, be pregnant or breastfeeding, cultural or religious reasons, have a health condition that’s worsened by alcohol intake, be on medication that doesn’t go well with booze. Or, you might just want to enjoy the festive season without the hangover.

So, what to drink when you’re not “drinking”? We’ve got four suggestions of alternatives to keep in reach instead of the usual beer or wine:

1. Alcohol-free beer, wine and spirits

There’s a rising trend of people moving away from alcohol. This has invigorated the non-alcoholic drink market in a way we’ve never seen before. You can now choose from non-alcoholic craft brews and low or non-alcoholic wines, from a French sparkling wine to a Barossa Valley shiraz.

Major retailers Coles and Woolworths are now also stocking non-alcoholic spirits and cocktails like gin, espresso martinis, and aperol spritz.

There are so many choices to choose from and they are increasingly easy to find. Why not give one a try?

2. Smoothies

If you’re on an exercise kick, a smoothie can also be a great way to incorporate protein powder into your day. And if you’re keen to have something nice and cold on a hot summer's day, this’ll do the trick as well.

Try blending your favourite frozen fruit, almond milk (or other low-fat milk), and a scoop of protein powder for a delicious cold drink that will also keep you full till your next meal!

3. Kombucha and fermented drinks

You’re probably aware of kombucha, but you might not know there are other fermented drinks to choose from as well. Other examples include beet kvass, water kefir and real ginger ale.

Fermented beverages are a good source of probiotics, which can help to promote your overall wellbeing, and help relieve inflammation and digestion issues. These drinks aren’t just good for your gut health – they can be used in a mocktail as well!

You can try mixing kombucha with lemonade and ice, or cranberry juice for a refreshing drink. There’s an unlimited combination of mixers in your pantry, so get creative and see what combos you might like.

4. Hot or cold teas

Tea is a much more versatile beverage than it gets credit for. Teas can be drunk warm or iced. Can be made with fresh herbs and flowers or come with jelly or boba pearls.

Many tea sections at the grocery store now include just as many iced or cold tea varieties as hot ones. You can also go out to your nearest boba tea store and try the delightful array of choices for you there.

Adding sparkling water to an iced tea makes for a refreshing alternative to alcoholic seltzers or spirits with mixers.