What Are "Functional Ingredients" and How Do They Enhance Nonalcoholic Beverages? - Boisson

What Are "Functional Ingredients" and How Do They Enhance Nonalcoholic Beverages?

Posted by Boisson Staff on

Whether you’re an athlete in training, today’s designated driver, or someone who just doesn’t want a hangover tomorrow, there are so many great reasons to opt for a nonalcoholic beverage. Not only will drinking one of these beverages allow you to skip the hangover, but many times it will also come with other benefits thanks to functional ingredients. At Boisson, we carry some of the best alcohol-free spirit brands that include lots of good-for-you ingredients! Here are a few of our favorites to look for on the label.

Adaptogens

If you’re someone who enjoys reaching for a glass of wine or other alcoholic beverage to unwind after a particularly stressful day, you should try an alcohol-free beverage that contains adaptogens. Adaptogens are herbs and other plants that can benefit you by managing your cortisol levels so you feel more at ease.

Also, if you haven't gotten to experience Do'Mo Functional Elixirs yet, you are in for a total groovy treat. Their founder, Philip Gladman, has coined these drinks to deliver what he likes to call "the two drink jolly" aka the perfect buzz you feel after having two or three cocktails on a night out. Do'Mo's Zero Proof Elixirs are scientifically formulated with 17 functional ingredients to get you in the right frame of mind for socializing, giving your body what it truly needs to feel energized and upbeat so you can sparkle as you socialize, without the consequences the next day. Their delicious flavors are also very unique combos with Ginger Miso Mule, Scrumptious Berry Bramble, and Spicy Watermelon Margarita. 

Kin Euphorics has proudly been a leader in the world of adaptogenic beverages. For example, their drink Lightwave is so effective at freeing you from stress that you may mistake it for being derived from CBD! This drink strengthens your adrenal system and improves your reaction to stress. Since there’s no caffeine and plenty of mind-calming ingredients, it’s the perfect drink to mellow you out for nighttime or just any time you want to find a little inner peace. 

Three Spirit is another example of an alcohol-free beverage company that creates plant-based drinks plentiful with adaptogens. Their nonalcoholic aperitif called Livener is made with your mood in mind. It contains Schisandra berries which were the first documented adaptogens known for creating a greater balance between the mind and body. If you’re looking for something to help you have fun all night long with friends, replace your typical alcoholic drink with this elixir—it is an especially great alternative because it contains guayusa which releases clean, natural caffeine.

Three Spirit Nightcap moody bathtub shot

Looking to wind-down instead of rev up? While some people reach for alcohol to help them sleep better, alcohol can actually decrease your quality of sleep. Reach for Nightcap, which is another alcohol-free aperitif from Three Spirit. Nightcap contains lemon balm, valerian, and ashwagandha. These adaptogens are all known for their ability to help you experience more restorative sleep and bring you a little bit of zen, calming your mind and body. 

Botanicals

Botanicals are ingredients like herbs, spices, and other plants. These natural ingredients add flavor to beverages, but their purpose goes deeper than that. They are another example of functional ingredients you should be looking for when you purchase nonalcoholic beverages. 

Rasāsvāda loves incorporating botanicals into its line of alcohol-free spirits. For example, not only does the main ingredient of their Black Ginger beverage add some delightful spice, but it’s also a natural antioxidant that can boost your libido and even increase your energy. Similarly, Social Elixir from Three Spirit is a great date night choice; it contains It contains Damiana which is an aphrodisiac, making this drink the perfect alcohol-free beverage for a date night. It also contains cacao which may help you live more in the moment if you’re struggling with social anxiety. 

Nootropics

Nootropics are another way nonalcoholic drink companies can formulate beverages that give you a little mood boost. In addition, these ingredients may enhance cognition. Nootropics like caffeine, 5-HTP, and GABA all work by targeting the neurotransmitters that control your mood. Anything containing nootropics is the perfect alcohol-free alternative to let loose and socialize!

5-HTP has more benefits besides its mood-boosting abilities. For example, this amino acid may help you lose weight because it helps you feel fuller faster by counter-acting hormones that make you feel hungry. 5-HTP can also help you sleep more soundly at night because it spurs on melatonin production. This effect is even stronger when 5-HTP is combined with GABA. Kin Spritz from Kin Euphorics is a nonalcoholic drink with these two nootropics; enjoy it as a fantastic way to feel your best creative, balanced self!

Free Spirit gin alternative bottle with g&t cocktail

So many people turn to alcohol when they’re with friends or on a trip for a mood boost. But unfortunately, that temporary mood boost often does more harm than good. Try a better, more beneficial option like one of the nonalcoholic distilled spirits from Free Spirits; they make gin, tequila, and whiskey alternatives. Not only does this drink contain the mood-elevating nootropic taurine, but it also has vitamins B3 and B6, which are also known for their ability to keep your spirits high.

Hemp

CBD and other ingredients derived from hemp have been making their way into nonalcoholic drinks more and more—and for good reason. BRĒZ is a perfect example of a hemp-infused beverage that's great for calming you down, yet lifting your spirits at the same time. Why risk a hangover when you can get a similar effect from one of these delicious lemon-elderflower bubbly drinks?

 

Enjoy Great-Tasting Nonalcoholic Beverages with Functional Ingredients, Guilt-Free

As you can see, there is no shortage of beneficial ingredients in some of the best nonalcoholic beverages on the market. So when you’re opting for a drink that’s alcohol-free, go one step further and drink something that could actually improve your mood, quality of sleep, or even your cognition.

Boisson sells all of these nonalcoholic spirits and more! We believe you should be able to drink something that tastes great, offers you benefits, and won’t leave you hungover. Find your new favorite drink by placing your order today!

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