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  • Marika Day: What to drink when you're not drinking

    Marika Day - 5 min read

    09 July 2021


    Whether they’re participating in Dry July or abstaining permanently, more Australians are calling last drinks on alcohol. AIA Vitality Ambassador Marika Day explains the benefits of going booze-free and offers some strategies to embrace when you’re not drinking. 

    Marika Day: What to drink when you are not drinking

    Over the past few years, there’s been a rise in both people choosing to abstain from alcohol and, subsequently, in non-alcoholic drink choices (that actually taste good). In my role as a dietitian, I’m seeing more and more clients who are keen to either reduce their alcohol intake – or avoid it altogether. 

    Australia’s drinking culture

    Although we have a reputation as a nation of drinkers, nearly a quarter of Australian adults steer clear of alcohol. Yet our social fabric is often linked with drinking, whether that means a few after-work rounds, casual beers watching the footy or even bottomless cocktails at brunch.

    When you tell someone you’re not drinking, there can be a lack of understanding. Many people make assumptions; you’re pregnant, or you’re dealing with addiction, or you’re boring.

    You don’t need to drink to have a good time and, fortunately, we’re starting to see a shift in this sort of thinking. But for us to move away from this idea, we need some good alternatives, particularly in social settings.

    Some strategies for when you’re not drinking

    Having a drink – any drink – in your hand can ease some of the social anxiety you might feel when you’re out (if I’m not holding a drink, I don’t know what to do with my hands). Otherwise, grab a couple of nibbles so both your hands are full.

    Choosing an alcohol-free beverage is another option. Sales of non-alcoholic beer are on the rise at major alcohol retailers, and there are more options available than ever before. These ‘beers’ can be delicious without having any of the associated negative effects of alcohol. If you’re not a beer fan, there’s also grown-up wine alternatives like those created by the Melbourne-based NON.

    But the most effective strategy is simply having confidence in your decision not to drink. Knowing that you can still socialise, dance, and have fun without booze can be really empowering. 

    So, how about a drink?

    Here’s what I choose when I’m not drinking.

    For after-work drinks, go for a glass of soda water with a wedge of lime in it – it feels a bit fancier than plain water!

    At a dinner party? Check out non-alcoholic wines and wine alternatives, like the previously mentioned NON or Plus & Minus, which you can sip on all night (just check the sugar content).

    For birthdays and celebrations, opt for alcohol-free sparkling wines, or whip up a mocktail. Brunswick Aces do booze-free spirits using botanicals that are great with a splash of soda, as do Seedlip.

    Catching up with friends? Choose an activity that doesn’t involve drinking, like brunch or going for a walk or hike. After all, you don’t need alcohol to connect with your mates.

    The only alcohol-free alternatives to avoid altogether are sugary juices or soft drinks – opt for low-sugar options like kombucha instead.

    Thinking about taking a break from booze?

    Initiatives like Dry July are an excellent way to give your body a break. They’re also a great opportunity for you to challenge your relationship with alcohol, and prove to yourself that you don’t need a drink to engage in social events. Plus, they’re great fundraising causes. 

    What you need to know if you are drinking alcohol

    The current recommendations for both men and women are no more than 10 standard drinks per week, with no more than four in one day. We know that excess alcohol consumption is one of the major modifiable risks to your health, so skipping that next round in the short term may be a good investment in the long run.

    RELATED CONTENT

    Article 1: Ditch the booze for a better snooze
    Article 2: Preventable cancers and how to avoid them
    Article 3: 30 small steps you can take to a healthier you


    Marika Day

    Marika Day is a nutritionist and Accredited Practising Dietitian who knows what the body needs to function at its best. With more than five years’ experience in the health and fitness industry, Marika's holistic approach to diet and exercise is tried and true. The information in this article is general information only and is not intended as medical, health, nutritional or other advice. You should obtain professional advice from a medical or health practitioner in relation to your own personal circumstances.

    Disclaimer: This is general information only and is not intended as financial, medical, health, nutritional or other advice. You should obtain professional advice from a financial adviser, or medical or health practitioner in relation to your own personal circumstances.

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    Copyright © 2021. AIA Group Limited and its subsidiaries or affiliates. All rights reserved. Priority Protection and Priority Protection for Platform Investors products are issued by AIA Australia Limited (ABN 79 004 837 861, AFSL 230043). AIA Vitality, a personalised, science-backed program that supports members every day to make healthier choices, is available with eligible products issued by AIA Australia. AIA Health with AIA Vitality is issued by AIA Health Insurance Pty Ltd ABN 32 611 323 034, a registered private health insurer governed by the Private Health Insurance Act 2007, Private Health Insurance Rules 2007 and the AIA Health Insurance Pty Ltd Fund Rules. The information on this website is current as at 1 April 2021 and may be subject to change. It is general information only and is not intended in any way to be financial, legal, tax, health, medical, nutritional or other advice. You should consider your own personal circumstances and needs and view the relevant product documents, fact sheets, fund rules and terms and conditions before making a decision to acquire such products. If necessary you should obtain professional advice from a financial, tax, medical or health professional. Unless expressly stated, any views or expressions of opinion (including any video content) do not represent the opinion of AIA.
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