Non-alcoholic drinks have been rising in popularity lately, and I love it. While I do drink, I'm also aware that alcohol is really bad for us. Luckily, I don't have a dependence or concerning relationship with alcohol, but I still think it's important to examine and re-think how we use it. Recently, my boyfriend and I slowed down our consumption and kept it on the weekends (unless there's a special occasion). I don't know that I'll ever cut it out completely, but I do see my use declining even more after this.

Sometimes, it's not even about the buzz but more about having a fun little drink. (If you do want a buzz, and you live in a state where cannabis is legal, you can always just pair an edible with your NA drink.) There are lots of awesome and tasty non-alcoholic beverages out there! Whether you're living a sober life or just want to slow down. I also find these are great for a day when you drink. Just throw a fake beer, sparkling water, or something else (we'll get into some great options) in between drinks. This way, you can still feel like you're drinking without shoving more and more poison into your body.

Okay, let's get into some of my favorite NA options I've been enjoying lately.

Must-Try NA Drinks

Hoplark

This Boulder-based brand is awesome! They have various products, including teas, beers, and sparkling water. I love caffeinated teas during the day and caffeine-free teas such as "The Calm One" when I'm winding down. Hoplark products come in varying intensity levels of hops and different flavors, which keeps things interesting. Hoplark started out of the desire for more alcohol-free options that still tasted like beer. They decided to brew tea like it was beer, using hops, but taking away the alcohol, sugar, and other unnecessary stuff. Pretty genius, right? In addition to being alcohol-free, these products are zero calories, sugar-free, and gluten-free, which sets them apart from some of the other NA options. It's my new fav!

Athletic Brewing Co.

This brand has your back for all you beer lovers out there! They specialize in non-alcoholic craft beers and have a variety of styles to choose from. Whether you're into IPAs, stouts, or pilsners, they've covered everything. Athletic Brewing is one of the best Non-alcoholic beer brands currently on the market in my opinion. They also sell sparkling water!

Recess

If you're in a cocktail mood, you gotta check out the Recess Zero Proof line. These craft canned mocktails play off of classics like mules and margs, minus the booze. In addition to being alcohol-free, these drinks also include some added good stuff like uplifting guayusa and balancing adaptogens. So, if you need a little something to take the edge off, this could be a way to find calm and bliss more healthily. Along with the Zero Proof line, Recess also makes infused sparkling waters and powders.

Guinness 0

Some alcohol brands are expanding their offerings to include non-alcoholic options. If you enjoy a Guinness like I do, I'd definitely recommend giving their NA a try. It tastes just like a regular Guinness, but the alcohol has been removed. And yes, these cans still include the widget.

Kombucha

Although it's not exactly a dupe for a beer or a cocktail, I love enjoying a cold glass of kombucha. It's deliciously refreshing and good for your gut! We love that. You can find tons of kombucha brands at grocery stores, online, or farmers markets. I especially enjoy ordering it from somewhere it's on tap, as it gives it a smoother taste. If the harsher vinegar taste is off-putting to you, you'd probably also appreciate it on tap. One of my favorite local Colorado kombucha brands is Tru Goodness.

It's been inspiring and encouraging to see the recent shift in our attitudes toward alcohol. With more people embracing non-alcoholic options and the rise of tasty and creative alternatives, we are breaking down the stigma and pressure to constantly be drinking. It's important to remember that you don't have to drink to fit in or have a good time. So, next time you're out at a bar or just hanging out with friends, consider trying one of these delicious NA drinks and see how it makes you feel.