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.
Non-Alcoholic Beer vs. Regular Beer: Which is More Likely to Cause Headaches?
When comparing non-alcoholic beer to regular beer, many people assume that non-alcoholic beer is less likely to cause headaches because it contains little to no alcohol. While alcohol is a well-known headache trigger, non-alcoholic beer can still cause headaches for some individuals, but for different reasons.
Regular beer contains higher alcohol content, and alcohol is a major contributor to dehydration, which is a common cause of headaches. Alcohol also dilates blood vessels in the brain, which can lead to tension and migraines. For many, this makes regular beer a more frequent headache trigger, particularly after overconsumption.
Non-alcoholic beer, on the other hand, may still cause headaches due to other factors. Even though it has little or no alcohol, ingredients like sulfites, histamines, and artificial additives can still be problematic. These compounds, commonly used in brewing and fermentation, are known to cause headaches or allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. Additionally, carbonation in non-alcoholic beer can lead to dehydration and digestive discomfort, which may indirectly contribute to headaches.
Ultimately, while regular beer may be a more common cause of headaches due to its alcohol content, non-alcoholic beer is not entirely risk-free. It’s important to be mindful of your individual sensitivities when choosing between the two.
The Science Behind Headaches and Non-Alcoholic Beer: What Causes It?
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.
Managing Headaches: How to Prevent Non-Alcoholic Beer from Ruining the Fun
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.
Side Effects From Non-Alcoholic Beer: Are There Any Others?
In addition to experiencing headaches whilst consuming non-alcoholic beer, individuals have reported other side effects from non-alcoholic beer. Common ingredients in non-alcoholic beer such as gluten, sulphites, artificial sweeteners and carbonation can cause various gastrointestinal, skin and respiratory issues such as:
- Dry and itchy skin
- Flushing
- Bloating
- Diarrhoea
- Breathing issues
- Fatigue or low-energy
Some of these side effects can be worsened by people with allergies to ingredients in non-alcoholic beer, making them more susceptible to experiencing severe side effects from non-alcoholic beer. It’s important for those with allergies or sensitivities to make informed decisions when incorporate non-alcoholic beer in their diet.
When to Consult a Doctor About Headaches from Non-Alcoholic Beer
If you consistently experience headaches after drinking non-alcoholic beer, it may be time to consult a healthcare professional. Occasional headaches may be due to factors like dehydration, sensitivities to certain ingredients, or overconsumption of carbonated beverages. However, if the headaches are persistent, severe, or accompanied by other symptoms such as dizziness, nausea, or blurred vision, it’s important to seek medical advice.
A doctor can help identify whether the headaches are triggered by specific ingredients in the beer, such as sulphates, histamines, or gluten, or if there is an underlying health condition that needs attention. They may also perform allergy tests or recommend an elimination diet to pinpoint the exact cause of your discomfort.
Additionally, individuals with a history of migraines or chronic headaches should be particularly cautious. If non-alcoholic beer aggravates these conditions, a healthcare provider can suggest alternatives or treatments to manage your symptoms. Always listen to your body, and don’t hesitate to seek professional advice if headaches are affecting your quality of life. Your doctor can provide personalised guidance to help you enjoy non-alcoholic beverages without discomfort.
What Should I Do in the Future About My Non-Alcoholic Beer Intolerance?
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.
