Have you ever witnessed this situation before? A fully-recovered alcohol user decides to purchase non-alcoholic beer under the pretense that it will not harm them. After all, if it doesn’t have the drug in it, the beverage can’t possibly cause harm, right? Obviously, the answer to this question is a big “no.” Let’s just say there is a very good reason that people refer to this drink as “near-beer.” Overall, doctors and medical researchers strongly warn people who have recovered from alcohol problems to abstain from non-alcoholic beer, due to the simple fact that the temptation to try regular beer is too great. Still, is there more to the big “NA” quandary than we realize? Why is non-alcoholic beer so dangerous for recovered patients? Let’s take a closer look and find out.
I Smell a Rat…Literally
As part of a recent study, a group of California scientists determined that the smell of alcohol may be strong enough to stimulate cravings for alcohol and (in some situations) trigger relapses. As part of the tests, the researchers trained lab rats to self-administer alcohol or quinine (a bitter), as part of a sensory test. Overall, the animals were taught to react to alcohol with the smell of bananas and quinine with the smell of oranges. In the end, the California team confirmed that the fragrance of these fruits did trigger an increase in dopamine levels (in the same manner as a person who drinks alcohol).
Keeping up Bad Behavior
Another major problem surrounding the consumption of non-alcoholic beer is the continuation and trigger of bad behavior. Simply put, people who drink this type of beer can easily fall victim to the same negative behaviors and attitudes they experienced while drinking actual beer. Overall, this study is a beneficial reminder of the dangerous alcohol use, according to researchers. After all, according to statistics, roughly 90% of recovered alcoholics will suffer from a relapse episode in the first 4 years following their treatment. Simply put, if you are recovering from alcohol abuse or alcoholism, it’s best to stay away from non-alcoholic beer to ensure you don’t trigger a relapse.
Seeking Treatment for Alcohol Use Disorder
Alcohol is a dangerous drug that can and will eventually inflict tremendous damage on your mind, body, and social life. Despite what medical reports about alcohol’s benefits for heart health and stroke prevention (which are true), alcohol (like any drug) can potentially harm you. Still, as we’ve seen, consuming what may appear to be non-alcohol beer is just as dangerous as drinking actual beer. Are you suffering from a form of alcohol use disorder? Do you have a friend or a loved one who is suffering from this problem, as well? In both cases, get in touch with Asana Recovery today. Our professional team of counselors and healthcare experts are ready to walk you through every step of the rehabilitation process and guide you towards living a happier, healthier, and freer lifestyle.
If you are interested in one of our residential treatment or supervised detoxification/withdrawal programs, we are ready and waiting to speak with you at your disclosure. Call Asana now at (949) 438-4504 to learn how to put a stop to your alcohol use disorder today.
