Non-Alcoholic Beverages During Pregnancy, Safety and Advice with SMASHD

Navigating the world of safe drinks for pregnancy can be a journey of delightful discoveries with the right knowledge at hand. Whether you're exploring alcohol-free pregnancy options or contemplating non-alcoholic wine and pregnancy, this guide is designed to empower expectant mothers with choices that are both safe and satisfying. Join us as we journey into the intricacies of non-alcoholic beverages, ensuring that every sip you take contributes positively to your pregnancy experience.

Understanding the Safety of Non-Alcoholic Drinks

While sifting through the beverage options during pregnancy, understanding just what's absent - the alcohol – isn’t enough. You also want to know what's present in your drink of choice, ensuring that what seems like a safe option truly is safe for both mother and baby.

Expectant and lactating mothers need to be vigilant about certain ingredients in non-alcoholic beverages, which we will explore in detail below. First, let’s take a closer look at the curious case of FDA-mandated beverage labeling in the U.S.

The Details Matter: Non-Alcoholic vs. Alcohol-Free for Pregnancy

Decoding the labels of non-alcoholic and alcohol-free beverages can be complex. According to FDA regulations, non-alcoholic drinks may contain up to 0.5% alcohol by volume, while alcohol-free drinks have no detectable alcohol. For a pregnant woman, understanding this difference is as important as choosing between a glass of milk and a martini.

SMASHD's mocktails, for instance, fall under the 'non-alcoholic' category. They contain minuscule traces of alcohol, necessary for enhancing the natural flavors and aromas, while still adhering to the standards set for non-alcoholic beverages.

During pregnancy, avoiding even trace amounts of alcohol is advisable, making alcohol-free options a mindful choice. [Link]

The beauty of ready-to-drink (RTD) non-alcoholic cocktails is in their transparency. Thanks to market regulations, labels clearly list ingredients and the ABV, providing peace of mind during pregnancy. But what about when ordering at a bar?

In the on-premise setting of a bar or restaurant, the term 'non-alcoholic' often takes a more conversational, less precise turn. Here, if there's any doubt about the ingredients or the presence of alcohol, the best course is to ask the person who crafted the drink. It's a simple step, but one that gives you the peace of mind in the knowledge that you're not inadvertently sipping something unsuitable.

Ingredients to Watch Out For 

While a drink might be non-alcoholic, it can still contain other ingredients that are not recommended for pregnant women:

• Caffeine, for instance, should be consumed in moderation. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) recommends that pregnant women limit their caffeine consumption to less than 200 mg (about two, six-ounce cups) per day; [Link] 
• However, pregnant women who consumed the caffeine equivalent of as little as half a cup of coffee a day on average had slightly smaller babies than pregnant women who did not drink caffeinated beverages at all, according to a study by researchers at the National Institutes of Health; [Link]
• Certain herbal ingredients sometimes found in the so-called “functional drinks” like ashwagandha, licorice root, pennyroyal, and yarrow are known to be potentially harmful during pregnancy and should be avoided. just as herbal teas containing these herbs. They can stimulate the uterus or affect hormone levels, potentially leading to complications;
• With the wellness world and the beverage industry abuzz about the benefits of CBD, expectant and new mothers should pause and consider the expert advice: Research suggests that you should not use CBD while pregnant or breastfeeding and the FDA and CDC strongly advise against using CBD products of any kind during this special time [Link]
• Energy drinks, even those labeled as non-alcoholic, often contain taurine, high levels of caffeine and other stimulants that can be detrimental during pregnancy; 
• Beverages with high sugar content can contribute to pregnancy diabetes and excessive weight gain. Avoiding sugary soft drinks is always a good idea but did you know that some zero-proof ciders can even contain as much as five teaspoons of sugar? 
• The use of artificial sweeteners, while generally considered safe, remains a topic of debate, and many health professionals recommend using them sparingly.  

Recommended Non-Alcoholic Drinks for Pregnant Women 

Your pregnancy care is a delicate balance of nutrients that cradle the new life blossoming within. Your diet, vibrant and varied, is the main source of essential goodies that your body uses to weave the fabric of your baby's future. 

It’s simple, really: what you munch is crucial, but when it comes to what you sip it’s not about chasing after the next super drink promising to boost this or that – no, it's about keeping it easy and safe.

Hydration is the name of the game when it comes to drinks during these precious nine months. Steering clear of anything that might be a red flag to your little one's health is paramount. 

Healthy Alternatives and Recipes

But, let's sprinkle a little sparkle on that practical advice, shall we? There are sips out there, that, when used with moderation, do more than just quench your thirst – they're like a gentle caress, easing the waves of morning sickness and bringing a moment of relief in the beautiful storm of pregnancy:

• Ginger Tea: Revered for its anti-nausea properties, ginger tea, made from real ginger or tea bags, can help settle the stomach. It's important to use real ginger or ginger tea bags, not ginger-flavored syrups or drinks.
• Peppermint Tea: Known for its stomach-soothing qualities, peppermint tea can be a gentle aid.
• Lemon Water: The scent and taste of fresh lemon in water are often effective in easing nausea. Just a slice or two can make a notable difference.
• Coconut Water: As a natural electrolyte source, coconut water can be especially helpful if nausea is accompanied by vomiting.
• Sports Drinks: In cases of electrolyte loss due to vomiting, low-sugar sports drinks can be a practical option, though not a first choice.
• Herbal teas like chamomile and raspberry leaf are often considered safe and soothing during pregnancy. However, it's crucial to consult with healthcare providers before consuming herbal teas, as some herbs might not be suitable during pregnancy.
• Fruit smoothies made with bananas and berries offer both nutrition and stomach-soothing properties.

Conclusion

Navigating the sea of non-alcoholic options for expectant mothers, let’s keep in mind that every pregnancy is unique, and it's paramount to embrace the voyage with intention and joy. SMASHD is here to offer friendly advice, ensuring you don't have to compromise on taste or experience. But remember, during this special time, it’s always advisable to consult with a healthcare professional. It’s better to err on the side of caution with thoughtful, safe choices, celebrating the future with every alcohol-free toast. Here’s to the moments that matter.