The Biggest Mistake I Made When I First Started Exploring Mocktails and the Non-Alcoholic Space
When it comes to pregnancy and breastfeeding, it's crucial to be mindful of what you consume. While exploring the world of non-alcoholic spirits and functional mocktails can be exciting, not all of them are safe for expectant or nursing mothers. In this blog post, we'll dive into the reasons why some non-alcoholic options may not be pregnancy-friendly, provide a list of safe brands to consider, and highlight some ingredients to watch out for during this crucial time.
When I first embarked on my journey into the world of mocktails and non-alcoholic beverages, I assumed that all non-alcoholic spirits would naturally be safe for pregnant and breastfeeding women. After all, why wouldn't they cater to a population that's often seeking alternatives to alcohol?
The Rise of Functional Mocktails
While I may not have children of my own, my passion for creating and enjoying mocktails led me to explore this space more deeply. I soon realized that not all non-alcoholic products are created equal when it comes to safety during pregnancy and breastfeeding. There's a crucial distinction to be made, especially concerning what I like to call "functional" non-alcoholic spirits or functional mocktails in cans.
These functional products often boast additional supplements and herbs, which can be a double-edged sword. On one hand, they offer unique flavors and potential health benefits, but on the other hand, their safety during pregnancy and breastfeeding hasn't been extensively researched. This leaves expecting and nursing mothers in a bit of a predicament.
To help shed light on this issue and assist other mocktail enthusiasts in making safe and informed choices, I've compiled a list of five non-alcoholic brands that I consider both delicious and pregnancy-safe. Additionally, I've highlighted five brands that you might want to steer clear of during this special time.
My Top 5 Pregnancy-Safe Mocktail Brands:
Noughty Sparkling Wines: Known for their delightful, alcohol-free sparkling wines.
No & Low Sparkling Wines: A great choice for those looking for non-alcoholic wine options - I like sparkling wines, can you tell?
Busty Lush Beers: Offering a variety of alcohol-free beers with a fantastic taste.
Avec: Known for their high-quality mixers, perfect for crafting unique mocktails.
Home-Made Mocktails: Making your own at home is the safest option using fresh fruits and culinary herbs like mint, sage, and thyme. Or take my herbal mocktail class to learn more!
Brands to Be Cautious About During Pregnancy:
Three Spirit: Contains an abundance of herbs, which may not be ideal for pregnant women.
Tennyson: Contains concentrates of ginger, which is generally contraindicated during pregnancy.
Kin: Features supplements that haven't been extensively researched for safety during pregnancy.
Aplos: Contains hemp extract and other herbs that may not be advisable during pregnancy.
De Soi: Contains adaptogens and other ingredients that may not align with pregnancy.
Now, let's dive deeper into some of the potentially risky ingredients you should be aware of when it comes to mocktails and non-alcoholic spirits:
Natural Flavors: While they might sound harmless, certain natural flavors like green mango, elderflower, green tea, grapefruit, and chai can sometimes contain undisclosed components that might not be pregnancy-friendly.
Vegetable Glycerine: While generally considered safe, excessive consumption may lead to gastrointestinal discomfort.
Xanthan Gum: In moderate amounts, it's safe, but excessive intake may cause digestive issues.
Malic Acid: Typically safe but may cause gastrointestinal discomfort if consumed excessively.
Potassium Sorbate: Generally recognized as safe, but high doses may lead to allergic reactions in some individuals.
Adaptogens: Meant to replicate that “buzz” you’d get from regular alcoholic drinks, but it’s best to avoid them during pregnancy.
Tonic Water: Quinine, the main ingredient in tonic water, crosses the placenta into the fetal bloodstream, so it’s safest to avoid.
As a general rule of thumb, when navigating the world of non-alcoholic beverages during pregnancy and breastfeeding, here are some key guidelines to follow:
Steer Clear of Functional Spirits: Be cautious of products that claim health benefits, as they often contain herbs and supplements that may not be well-researched for pregnancy safety.
Beware of Adaptogens: Products containing adaptogenic herbs should be avoided during pregnancy and breastfeeding, as their effects on expecting mothers and infants are not fully understood.
Exercise Caution with Tonic Waters and Aperitifs: These beverages frequently contain herbal ingredients. It's best to err on the side of caution and avoid them.
Opt for Organic Wines and Beers: Choose non-alcoholic wines and beers that do not contain herbs. Look for organic options, as they often have fewer additives.
Choose Mixers Wisely: When crafting mocktails, opt for mixers made with fresh fruit juices and avoid those containing herbs or supplements.
Always Read the Label: Make it a habit to carefully read the ingredient labels of non-alcoholic products to ensure they align with your pregnancy or breastfeeding goals.
By following these guidelines and staying informed about the ingredients in your chosen non-alcoholic beverages, you can make confident and health-conscious choices during this special time in your life.
final thoughts..
It's crucial to remember that every pregnancy is unique, and individual sensitivities may vary. If you're pregnant or breastfeeding and considering non-alcoholic beverages with supplements and herbs, it's always a wise idea to consult with your healthcare provider to ensure your choices align with your specific circumstances.
As mocktail enthusiasts, let's enjoy our vibrant, alcohol-free creations while prioritizing our health and the well-being of our little ones. With careful consideration and informed choices, we can craft delicious and safe mocktails for all occasions. Cheers to the journey of parenthood and mocktail mastery!