The topic of consuming alcohol during pregnancy is one that sparks debate, with many women seeking alternatives to enjoy the taste of a refreshing beverage without the potential risks associated with alcohol consumption.
Non-alcoholic beer has emerged as a popular option, but is it really safe for pregnant women?
In this article, we’ll explore the question, “Can you drink non-alcoholic beer while pregnant?” and provide you with a comprehensive guide on the subject.
Understanding Non-Alcoholic Beer
Before diving into the safety of non-alcoholic beer during pregnancy, it’s important to understand what it is.
Non-alcoholic beer is regular beer but with an alcohol-by-volume (ABV) of less than 0.5%.
There are many ways to make non-alcoholic beer, sometimes by brewing regular beer and removing the alcohol, or by brewing beer and stopping the fermentation before it gets higher than 0.5%.
If done right, a great-tasting non-alcoholic craft beer will taste just like a regular, leaded, craft beer.
The Risks of Alcohol Consumption During Pregnancy
It’s well-established that consuming alcohol during pregnancy can lead to an array of complications, both for the mother and the developing baby.
Alcohol consumption can increase the risk of miscarriage, stillbirth, and premature birth.
It can also cause Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD), which are a group of conditions characterized by physical, mental, and behavioral impairments in children exposed to alcohol in the womb.
Due to these risks, many health professionals and organizations, such as the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), recommend that pregnant women abstain from alcohol consumption entirely.
The Downside of Quitting Drinking
Let’s be honest, if quitting drinking was full of only positives, everyone would do it.
Not only is it healthier for you, but it’s also absolutely one of the best decisions you can make for your baby.
But drinking is unfortunately a major aspect of our social lives. Quitting drinking can often feel like you are choosing to isolate yourself from your friends, co-workers, and many of the social activities we participate in.
While it is obviously the right decision to make, especially while pregnant, we understand that it’s normal to feel as though it’s a difficult decision and to miss drinking during that time.
Can You Drink Non-Alcoholic Beer While Pregnant?
Given that non-alcoholic beer contains a minimal amount of alcohol, many expectant mothers wonder if it’s safe to drink during pregnancy.
Although beer is legally considered “non-alcoholic” if it contains less than 0.5% ABV, it’s worth noting that this small amount of alcohol can still be present in the final product.
We are not medical professionals, and you should always seek the advice of a doctor before making decisions that could affect you or your baby’s health.
However, many everyday food items such as orange juice, ripe bananas, and bread have a higher ABV than non-alcoholic beer with an ABV of above 0.5%.
Non-Alcoholic Beer Subscription for Pregnant Women
As we mentioned, many pregnant women may feel left out and isolated from their social lives during pregnancy because they can no longer drink alcohol with friends.
That’s why non-alcoholic beer plays an important role in society today. It helps people partake in the age-old tradition of sharing a beer with friends but without the consequences.
If you’re pregnant and want to learn, explore, and sample the various types of non-alcoholic craft beer during pregnancy, you can sign up for a monthly non-alcoholic beer-of-the-month subscription through NABeerClub.com.
This unique subscription service offers a curated selection of non-alcoholic craft beers from around the world, allowing you to experience the diverse flavors and styles of this growing market.
By joining NA Beer Club, you’ll not only have access to an exclusive assortment of non-alcoholic beers but also be part of a community that shares your passion for high-quality, alcohol-free beverages.
Remember, the health and well-being of your baby should always be the top priority when making decisions about what to consume during pregnancy.
By avoiding alcoholic beverages, and seeking advice from healthcare professionals, you can ensure a healthy pregnancy and give your baby the best possible start in life.
