We all know that consuming alcoholic beer can create a bit of havoc on your body if you overstep your limit. Dehydration from alcohol leads to headaches, dizziness, feeling sick, tired or triggering mental health issues. But what about non-alcoholic beer? Whilst it may seem to be a good alternative for those wanting to curb their calories and alcohol intake, we will look deeper into whether non-alcoholic beer is a good or a bad choice.
A beer headache is common. Whenever we drink alcohol, our body dehydrates. This means that you may feel tired and a little off balance which often leaves you with a terrible hangover. When we constantly subject our bodies to this, it can lead to alcohol dependence and addiction.
Many people choose to stop drinking for a variety of reasons. This may be due to rehabilitation and a detox programme, you feel sober curious, or simply to limit your intake and try to lead a healthier life. Either way, non-alcoholic beer is a great option if you are trying to reduce or quit your alcohol intake.
Does Non-Alcoholic Beer Cause Headaches?
Have you ever wondered why non-alcoholic beer gives me a headache? Well, it may not be for the reasons you think. Afterall, alternative types of alcohol can have many benefits. They can offer you the taste of an alcoholic beverage without any negative effects on your body. Firstly, it is important to note that some non-alcoholic beers contain a lot of sugar. Therefore, you can feel a sugar rush, but then a quick low afterwards.
You may gain weight quicker and could be prone to feeling more sluggish; however, non-alcoholic beer still has less sugar in it than alcoholic beer.
The brewing process begins like any other beer, but the alcohol is burned or steeped away leaving just the flavour behind. Around 10% of the recommended amount of vitamin B2 is in non-alcoholic beer. It is crafted from hops, barley, and other types of grains, so you’ll naturally get the same taste without intoxication. But can non-alcoholic beer cause a headache? The simple answer to this question is, no. It actually hydrates you so it should therefore it should not create any issues for you.
What Can Cause Headaches After Drinking Non-Alcoholic Beer?
If you have recently or frequently consumed non-alcoholic beer and have had a headache from it, then it’s important to look at the possible reasons why. A headache after non alcoholic beer probably means that you are dehydrated, which is also experienced from alcohol.
If you are gluten intolerant or are sensitive or allergic to any of the ingredients, then the non-alcoholic beer could also be a reason that you experience a headache, and nausea may also be a symptom alongside your headaches. Preventing this would be to speak to your GP about possible medication as well as ensuring that you look carefully at the brand of non-alcoholic beer to see if it is the ingredients that are causing the problem.
The Science Behind Headaches and Non-Alcoholic Beer
As we just touched on, the likely chance of getting a headache from beer is slim. But if you do, the ingredients and the way that the non-alcoholic beer is created could be the cause of the problem. Scientifically speaking, specific compounds found in beer could be the culprit. Histamines or tyramine can create an effect on the brain.
If you keep a diary to note every time it occurs, you may be able to pinpoint it to being the beer or another culprit in your diet. Either way, a medical professional should be consulted if you regularly experience headaches after drinking.
Managing Headaches: Tips for Enjoying Non-Alcoholic Beer Responsibly
As with any addictive substance in life, you must be responsible with how you consume it. Headaches caused by alcoholic beer can be caused primarily because of dehydration and therefore you must be aware of your limits. Overuse of alcohol can trigger numerous health conditions and may cause difficulties in your lifestyle.
Headaches can be mitigated by ensuring you eat well before drinking, stay hydrated whilst drinking, and know your limits. Also knowing your headache triggers could be helpful. Perhaps it was stress, late nights or anxiety that caused your headache instead.
If your headaches are caused by non-alcoholic beer, then there are a few ways to ensure that you have a smoother time enjoying it. Non-alcoholic beer has many benefits in comparison to normal alcohol, especially for those who wish to reduce their intake of alcohol and lead a healthier and more stable life.
Alcohol abuse is a serious issue and oftentimes, non-alcoholic alternatives are suggested to people. Therefore, if you are suffering from headaches, then these tips may help you.
Stay hydrated: ensure that you are drinking water, even alongside a non-alcoholic beer. This can dilute the ingredients and create a more neutral environment in the body.
Monitor your intake: make sure you have a diary to note all the information about your consumption. You may want to also look at the frequency you drink the beverage and how long it took before you began to experience symptoms.
Always check first: if you know that you have a specific dietary requirement, find out the ingredients first and look for alternatives. There are numerous brands that specialise in non-alcoholic beverages that may cater to your needs.
Speak with a professional: you may be able to reach out either to a pharmacist, doctor or your professional team in rehabilitation to find a way to enjoy your alcohol-free beer without problems. It may be worth being tested for celiac disease and other food intolerances to pinpoint the problem. You can also ask for alternatives and find out the best solution to enjoy your drink.
Overall, you must consider the best option for your body and mind and consider other types of non-alcoholic drinks that are better suited to your digestion. Starting the journey towards sobriety and enjoying non-alcoholic drinks are a great place to start.
Not only can you still easily socialise, but also enjoy the taste. If your headaches are also accompanied by other symptoms that do not go away, it is best to speak to a doctor immediately. There may be another issue at play. Do you struggle with alcohol addiction and require alcohol rehabilitation treatment? Get in touch with us today on 0800 012 6088 for help today.
