Benefits of Cutting Back! When you quit drinking, or even cut back on drinking, you'll experience real effects on your body and mind.
When you quit drinking, or even cut back on drinking, you'll experience real effects on your body and mind.
Before we get into the benefits, it's important to note that benefits vary based on how much of a change you make. It has to do with, for example, someone who drinks 20 alcoholic beverages a week and cuts down to 5 may notice pronounced changes in the physical body. Someone who consumes 5 drinks a week and cuts down to 3 will experience less of a change, though they may still find benefits.
Some of these effects may be noticed shortly after giving up alcohol or cutting back, whereas others may take longer to experience.
At the end of the day, though, it is clear that no matter how much someone drinks now, if they cut back on or give up alcohol, there will be benefits.
First, let's get into some of the physical effects.
Next, let's talk about the mental effects.
Some other benefits include stronger relationships with people you care about, no hangovers, and saving money.
Keep in mind that the pace and types of benefits may vary from person to person, but the bottom line is the same: When you make a change, you're going to experience some benefits.
Join us today at Reframe and begin your journey working toward a more fulfilling life.
When you quit drinking, or even cut back on drinking, you'll experience real effects on your body and mind.
Before we get into the benefits, it's important to note that benefits vary based on how much of a change you make. It has to do with, for example, someone who drinks 20 alcoholic beverages a week and cuts down to 5 may notice pronounced changes in the physical body. Someone who consumes 5 drinks a week and cuts down to 3 will experience less of a change, though they may still find benefits.
Some of these effects may be noticed shortly after giving up alcohol or cutting back, whereas others may take longer to experience.
At the end of the day, though, it is clear that no matter how much someone drinks now, if they cut back on or give up alcohol, there will be benefits.
First, let's get into some of the physical effects.
Next, let's talk about the mental effects.
Some other benefits include stronger relationships with people you care about, no hangovers, and saving money.
Keep in mind that the pace and types of benefits may vary from person to person, but the bottom line is the same: When you make a change, you're going to experience some benefits.
Join us today at Reframe and begin your journey working toward a more fulfilling life.
Whether you want to drink less to reach your fitness goals, or you know that you could nail that work promotion with fewer hangovers, or you suspect that alcohol is holding you back from your creative endeavors, it makes sense that you might be interested in learning how to cut back on your drinking.
Cutting back on our alcohol consumption is one of the best things we can do to improve our quality of life. So why not download Reframe right now and kickstart your journey to wellness?!
Although it isn’t a treatment for alcohol use disorder (AUD), the Reframe app can help you cut back on drinking gradually and with the science-backed knowledge to empower you 100% of the way. Our proven program has helped millions of people around the world drink less and live more. And we want to help you get there, too!
The Reframe app equips you with the knowledge and skills you need to not only survive drinking less, but to thrive while you navigate the journey! Our daily research-backed readings teach you the neuroscience of alcohol, and our in-app Toolkit gives you the resources and activities you need to navigate each challenge.
You’ll meet millions of fellow Reframers in our 24/7 Forum chat and daily Zoom check-in meetings. Receive encouragement from people from around the world who are going through the exact same experiences as you! You’ll also have the oppurotunity to connect with our licensed Reframe coaches for more personalized guidance.
Plus, we’re always introducing new features to ensure your in-app experience is optimal. We recently launched our in-app chatbot, Melody, which is supported by the world’s most powerful AI technology. Melody is here to lend you support whenever you need it as you adjust to a life with less (or no) alcohol.
Oh, but there's more! We introduce enjoyable challenges every month — from Dry/Damp January to Sober Spring to Outdoorsy June. You won’t want to pass up the chance to participate!
The Reframe app is free for 7 days, so you don’t have anything to lose. Are you ready to feel empowered and discover life beyond alcohol? Then download our app today!
George is a charismatic, high-performing executive well-known for his vivacious persona at social events. He enjoys a good time and often finds himself at the heart of parties, his glass perpetually filled with an alcoholic beverage. George’s life, pulsating with endless meetings and gatherings, is like a grand spectacle where alcohol is his co-star. However, an unexpected conversation with an old friend about the essence of life, about truly living, nudges George to reevaluate his relationship with alcohol.
If you find yourself in a similar position as George, remember: cutting back isn't about a drastic, sweeping transformation; it's about balance and making room for an array of experiences that life offers. If you’re wondering how to cut back on alcohol, you’re in the right place. Let’s explore how to cut back on drinking and live more!
The obvious question arises: why should we consider reducing our alcohol intake? The answer resides in a spectrum of reasons, both health-related and lifestyle-centric. Scientific evidence links excessive alcohol consumption with a litany of health concerns, from liver disease to heart conditions to increased risk of cancer to mental health challenges. Alcohol, with its insidious ability to disturb sleep, alter moods, and impair cognitive function, quietly chips away at our well-being. Add to this its role in contributing to weight gain, and the argument for reducing consumption strengthens.
Beyond the realm of health lies the impact of alcohol on our lifestyle. By reducing drinking, we create space in our lives for other pursuits. This might look like waking up feeling clear-headed, having more productive and creative days, or being more present in our relationships. It's not just about prevention; it's about enhancement. Reducing alcohol is as much about enriching our lives and experiences as it is about mitigating health risks.
Reducing our alcohol intake might seem like a monumental task, especially when drinking is woven into the fabric of our social interactions. However, every major journey begins with baby steps, and it's the same when we aim to cut back on drinking. It's about setting goals that are realistic and achievable.
The first step is defining what “cutting back” means for us. It might look like having alcohol-free days, limiting the quantity of alcohol consumed per sitting, or confining drinking to special occasions. The definition of success in this journey is highly individual and unique. Remember that every step counts when you’re limiting your alcohol intake.
The next step in figuring out how to cut back on alcohol involves implementing strategies to help us achieve our goals. We can reduce our alcohol consumption with the help of many tools. One strategy involves finding alternatives to alcohol. You might explore the world of non-alcoholic drinks or delve into hobbies and activities that don't involve drinking. The absence of alcohol doesn't mean the absence of fun or relaxation.
Another strategy is to learn how to politely decline alcohol when it's offered. This might require practice and courage, but over time it becomes an empowering skill that affirms our commitment to our goal. We could also try mindful drinking, where we savor each sip and stay fully aware of our consumption. This not only enhances the drinking experience but keeps us in control. Lastly, sharing our goal with friends and family can make them allies in our journey, providing a supportive and understanding environment.
What does "living more" signify when we start cutting back on drinking? It encapsulates a lifestyle filled with varied experiences and relationships, a life that's not anchored on alcohol. We might discover new activities, spend more time with our loved ones, or pursue our unique passions if we live a fuller life. It can entail developing a pastime we've been wanting to start, going on a trip we've been wanting to take, or committing more time to a cause we care about a lot. Discovering areas of our lives that we may have underestimated or disregarded is a key component of living more.
In this newly uncovered space, we might find ourselves feeling more present and tuned into the events that make up our day-to-day life. Every moment grows richer and every experience more vivid, whether it's the sound of our children laughing, the scent of our morning coffee, or the peace of a peaceful evening. Making room for more in our lives by cutting back on alcohol consumption is the goal.
When we consume less alcohol, we gain more time, energy, and clarity. It's as if we’re given the opportunity to rediscover who we are, to find our potential, and to reevaluate what fulfillment and happiness mean to us.
Many of us can find ourselves in George's position, at a crossroads, wondering how to strike a balance between our social activities and our personal well-being. It's important to keep in mind that everyone's journey to reduce alcohol use is unique and very personal. It's about bringing about a shift that enables us to live more fully and genuinely rather than about achieving some utopian state of perfection.
Every step we take in this journey counts, every decision we make matters, and every day brings new opportunities for growth. We're not just reducing alcohol; we're enhancing our lives. We're not just living; we're living more. So, here's to the power of choice, the joy of balance, and the pursuit of a rich, fulfilling life. It's about living more, one (alcohol-free!) sip at a time.
George is a charismatic, high-performing executive well-known for his vivacious persona at social events. He enjoys a good time and often finds himself at the heart of parties, his glass perpetually filled with an alcoholic beverage. George’s life, pulsating with endless meetings and gatherings, is like a grand spectacle where alcohol is his co-star. However, an unexpected conversation with an old friend about the essence of life, about truly living, nudges George to reevaluate his relationship with alcohol.
If you find yourself in a similar position as George, remember: cutting back isn't about a drastic, sweeping transformation; it's about balance and making room for an array of experiences that life offers. If you’re wondering how to cut back on alcohol, you’re in the right place. Let’s explore how to cut back on drinking and live more!
The obvious question arises: why should we consider reducing our alcohol intake? The answer resides in a spectrum of reasons, both health-related and lifestyle-centric. Scientific evidence links excessive alcohol consumption with a litany of health concerns, from liver disease to heart conditions to increased risk of cancer to mental health challenges. Alcohol, with its insidious ability to disturb sleep, alter moods, and impair cognitive function, quietly chips away at our well-being. Add to this its role in contributing to weight gain, and the argument for reducing consumption strengthens.
Beyond the realm of health lies the impact of alcohol on our lifestyle. By reducing drinking, we create space in our lives for other pursuits. This might look like waking up feeling clear-headed, having more productive and creative days, or being more present in our relationships. It's not just about prevention; it's about enhancement. Reducing alcohol is as much about enriching our lives and experiences as it is about mitigating health risks.
Reducing our alcohol intake might seem like a monumental task, especially when drinking is woven into the fabric of our social interactions. However, every major journey begins with baby steps, and it's the same when we aim to cut back on drinking. It's about setting goals that are realistic and achievable.
The first step is defining what “cutting back” means for us. It might look like having alcohol-free days, limiting the quantity of alcohol consumed per sitting, or confining drinking to special occasions. The definition of success in this journey is highly individual and unique. Remember that every step counts when you’re limiting your alcohol intake.
The next step in figuring out how to cut back on alcohol involves implementing strategies to help us achieve our goals. We can reduce our alcohol consumption with the help of many tools. One strategy involves finding alternatives to alcohol. You might explore the world of non-alcoholic drinks or delve into hobbies and activities that don't involve drinking. The absence of alcohol doesn't mean the absence of fun or relaxation.
Another strategy is to learn how to politely decline alcohol when it's offered. This might require practice and courage, but over time it becomes an empowering skill that affirms our commitment to our goal. We could also try mindful drinking, where we savor each sip and stay fully aware of our consumption. This not only enhances the drinking experience but keeps us in control. Lastly, sharing our goal with friends and family can make them allies in our journey, providing a supportive and understanding environment.
What does "living more" signify when we start cutting back on drinking? It encapsulates a lifestyle filled with varied experiences and relationships, a life that's not anchored on alcohol. We might discover new activities, spend more time with our loved ones, or pursue our unique passions if we live a fuller life. It can entail developing a pastime we've been wanting to start, going on a trip we've been wanting to take, or committing more time to a cause we care about a lot. Discovering areas of our lives that we may have underestimated or disregarded is a key component of living more.
In this newly uncovered space, we might find ourselves feeling more present and tuned into the events that make up our day-to-day life. Every moment grows richer and every experience more vivid, whether it's the sound of our children laughing, the scent of our morning coffee, or the peace of a peaceful evening. Making room for more in our lives by cutting back on alcohol consumption is the goal.
When we consume less alcohol, we gain more time, energy, and clarity. It's as if we’re given the opportunity to rediscover who we are, to find our potential, and to reevaluate what fulfillment and happiness mean to us.
Many of us can find ourselves in George's position, at a crossroads, wondering how to strike a balance between our social activities and our personal well-being. It's important to keep in mind that everyone's journey to reduce alcohol use is unique and very personal. It's about bringing about a shift that enables us to live more fully and genuinely rather than about achieving some utopian state of perfection.
Every step we take in this journey counts, every decision we make matters, and every day brings new opportunities for growth. We're not just reducing alcohol; we're enhancing our lives. We're not just living; we're living more. So, here's to the power of choice, the joy of balance, and the pursuit of a rich, fulfilling life. It's about living more, one (alcohol-free!) sip at a time.
We may have heard of Twisted Tea but are unsure of what exactly is in it. Learn more about what type of alcohol is in Twisted Tea and why it matters, in our latest blog.
Although it isn’t a treatment for alcohol use disorder (AUD), the Reframe app can help you cut back on drinking gradually with the science-backed knowledge to empower you 100% of the way. Our proven program has helped millions of people around the world drink less and live more. And we want to help you get there, too!
The Reframe app equips you with the knowledge and skills you need to not only survive drinking less, but to thrive while you navigate the journey. Our daily research-backed readings teach you the neuroscience of alcohol, and our in-app Toolkit provides the resources and activities you need to navigate each challenge.
You’ll meet millions of fellow Reframers in our 24/7 Forum chat and daily Zoom check-in meetings. Receive encouragement from people worldwide who know exactly what you’re going through! You’ll also have the opportunity to connect with our licensed Reframe coaches for more personalized guidance.
Plus, we’re always introducing new features to optimize your in-app experience. We recently launched our in-app chatbot, Melody, powered by the world’s most powerful AI technology. Melody is here to help as you adjust to a life with less (or no) alcohol.
And that’s not all! Every month, we launch fun challenges, like Dry/Damp January, Mental Health May, and Outdoorsy June. You won’t want to miss out on the chance to participate alongside fellow Reframers (or solo if that’s more your thing!).
The Reframe app is free for 7 days, so you don’t have anything to lose by trying it. Are you ready to feel empowered and discover life beyond alcohol? Then download our app through the App Store or Google Play today!
A viral video in 2020 of a man shouting racial slurs and getting smacked on the head with a can of Twisted Tea brought a new rise to the already-popular alcoholic beverage. With new memes popping up on TikTok after the incident painting Twisted Tea as this “knight in shining armor” and its enticing bright yellow packaging, we may be curious as to what it is and why it's so popular.
A quick Google search of the ingredients doesn’t really tell us much. Like most suggestions from TikTok, we may be wanting to learn a bit more before hopping on the bandwagon. To better understand what we might be putting into our body, let’s fully untangle what kind of alcohol is in Twisted Tea and get to the bottom of the drink that everyone seems to be talking about.
Twisted Tea has blown up in popularity in recent years but was created back in 2001 in Cincinnati, Ohio. The brand is owned by the Boston Beer Company, which also produces other popular brands of alcoholic beverages such as Truly, Angry Orchard, Samuel Adams, and more.
The hard iced tea is inspired by Southern sweet tea — a popular beverage perfect for hot summer months. The original Twisted Tea was released in 2000 as BoDean’s Twisted Tea, referencing the rock band The BoDeans. However, the music group cited copyright infringement, and, after a year-long legal battle, Boston Beer agreed to drop the name, and Twisted Tea as we know it was born.
The original Twisted Tea is a hard sweet tea with a hint of lemon flavor. As the brand grew in popularity, nine other flavors were added to the range. Some of these include flavors such as peach, raspberry, and “half & half” (lemonade and iced tea). Recently, Twisted Tea has partnered with Beam Suntory to release a Twisted Tea Whiskey — taking the malt beverage company into the spirits territory. While varying slightly in taste, all Twisted Tea beverages can be found in bottles or cans plastered with the brand's iconic bright yellow packaging.
Twisted Tea has grown steadily since its release but saw even more growth with a greater demand for ready-to-drink (RTD) cocktails in recent years. Recent viral videos on social media sites like TikTok have also drawn more attention to the beverage. So, we know Twisted Tea is popular, but what’s in it?
Twisted Tea ingredients include a malt base made from brewed black tea, sugar, and lemon flavoring. Unlike other malt beverages, Twisted Tea is not carbonated and is meant to stay true to a traditional Southern sweet tea.
A look at the ingredients and description doesn’t really tell us much. Since alcohol is regulated by the Alcohol Tax and Trade Bureau (TTB) rather than the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) as other food and beverage products are, it doesn’t require direct ingredient labeling. While keeping their Twisted Tea recipe a secret is great for preventing competitors from recreating the drink, it’s confusing for those of us trying to figure out what exactly is in the alcoholic beverage.
Contrary to what we might think, Twisted Tea is not spiked or mixed with any alcohol. The alcoholic content is derived from the fermentation of the malt base, which is the primary component of the drink.
Malt is cereal grain that has been sprouted and dried. This process brings out the full sweetness of the grain. Malt powder has a variety of uses including sweetening milkshakes and helping baked goods rise.
Twisted Tea is made using malted barley grain. The sweetened grain is mixed with the drink's other main ingredients, including tea leaves and flavoring, and turned into alcohol through fermentation. Fermentation is the process by which yeast converts sugar into ethanol — the intoxicating component of alcohol. Beer is made through a very similar process.
So, does that mean Twisted Tea has the same alcohol content as beer?
The alcohol content in the Twisted Tea product ranges depending on the variety. The original Twisted Tea hard iced tea and similar flavors is 5% alcohol by volume (ABV). This is comparable to the average ABV of most beers.
The brand also released an “Extreme” line that contains a higher ABV at 8%. This is in line with higher-alcohol craft beers. Their most recent addition, Twisted Tea Sweet Tea Whiskey, is a bottled spirit that is comparable to other distilled spirits at an ABV of 32.5%.
We’ve determined the type and the amount of alcohol that’s in Twisted Tea, but what type of drink is it?
Twisted Tea is marketed as a hard iced tea, which only means that it’s an alcoholic version of an iced tea. It also claims to be a malt beverage — which some people may confuse with beer. So, is Twisted Tea beer? Well, Twisted Tea is not exactly a beer either.
It’s categorized as an RTD beverage, more specifically a flavored malt beverage, which falls under the more general category of malt beverages. It’s also sometimes called a “malternative” or “alcopop” (alcoholic pop). It doesn’t always contain carbonation or hops that are distinctive qualities of beer. Beer also falls under the large umbrella term of malt beverages but is not always considered a flavored malt beverage. It’s similar to how a square is a rectangle, but a rectangle is not a square with beer acting as the more general category of a rectangle.
Getting to the bottom of what Twisted Tea is can be a brain twister. However, understanding what it is helps us acknowledge its potential dangers.
Malternative or alcopop beverages like Twisted Tea are typically lower in alcohol content, but they’re just as dangerous as other alcoholic drinks. The lower alcohol content can make it seem like it’s okay to consume more — increasing the risk of binge drinking.
While lower in alcohol, Twisted Tea contains more sugar. This helps to mask the unpleasant taste of alcohol, again adding to the potential for overconsumption. Alcopops have also been identified as harmful, especially for women and adolescents, whom the sweeter profiles target.
Similar to how the availability of flavored nicotine vapes led to a rise in teenage smokers, malternatives can encourage underage drinking — one of the greatest problems in public health.
At the end of the day, Twisted Tea is no different from any other alcohol and carries the same risks. The Dietary Guidelines for Americans suggests limiting the consumption of sugary drinks and alcohol for a healthy lifestyle. Twisted Tea is a combination of both — adding to its negative effects. Some of the potential consequences of consuming Twisted Tea include the following:
Having a sip of Twisted Tea may not cause immediate, noticeable consequences, but over time it has the capability to wreak havoc on our health. Mindful consumption can help us limit the negative effects and keep us healthy and safe.
Mindful drinking practices help us approach the dangerous effects of alcoholic beverages such as Twisted Tea in a safe manner. Some ways we can practice safe alcohol consumption include the following actions:
These strategies help us practice mindful consumption, not only with Twisted Tea but also with alcohol in general, to help us make more mindful choices.
Viral memes and social media posts about Twisted Tea can make us feel like we’re missing out on something special. However, the only thing we’re missing out on by avoiding Twisted Tea is a whole host of health issues; the alcohol in Twisted Tea gives a twist to iced tea that isn’t beneficial to our overall health. Drinking is commonly associated with “having a good time,” but regular alcohol consumption is tied to a wide range of health issues. So, stick with good old-fashioned non-alcoholic iced tea. If you do decide to drink, keep it light! Mindful consumption can ensure you’re here for a good time and a long time!
A viral video in 2020 of a man shouting racial slurs and getting smacked on the head with a can of Twisted Tea brought a new rise to the already-popular alcoholic beverage. With new memes popping up on TikTok after the incident painting Twisted Tea as this “knight in shining armor” and its enticing bright yellow packaging, we may be curious as to what it is and why it's so popular.
A quick Google search of the ingredients doesn’t really tell us much. Like most suggestions from TikTok, we may be wanting to learn a bit more before hopping on the bandwagon. To better understand what we might be putting into our body, let’s fully untangle what kind of alcohol is in Twisted Tea and get to the bottom of the drink that everyone seems to be talking about.
Twisted Tea has blown up in popularity in recent years but was created back in 2001 in Cincinnati, Ohio. The brand is owned by the Boston Beer Company, which also produces other popular brands of alcoholic beverages such as Truly, Angry Orchard, Samuel Adams, and more.
The hard iced tea is inspired by Southern sweet tea — a popular beverage perfect for hot summer months. The original Twisted Tea was released in 2000 as BoDean’s Twisted Tea, referencing the rock band The BoDeans. However, the music group cited copyright infringement, and, after a year-long legal battle, Boston Beer agreed to drop the name, and Twisted Tea as we know it was born.
The original Twisted Tea is a hard sweet tea with a hint of lemon flavor. As the brand grew in popularity, nine other flavors were added to the range. Some of these include flavors such as peach, raspberry, and “half & half” (lemonade and iced tea). Recently, Twisted Tea has partnered with Beam Suntory to release a Twisted Tea Whiskey — taking the malt beverage company into the spirits territory. While varying slightly in taste, all Twisted Tea beverages can be found in bottles or cans plastered with the brand's iconic bright yellow packaging.
Twisted Tea has grown steadily since its release but saw even more growth with a greater demand for ready-to-drink (RTD) cocktails in recent years. Recent viral videos on social media sites like TikTok have also drawn more attention to the beverage. So, we know Twisted Tea is popular, but what’s in it?
Twisted Tea ingredients include a malt base made from brewed black tea, sugar, and lemon flavoring. Unlike other malt beverages, Twisted Tea is not carbonated and is meant to stay true to a traditional Southern sweet tea.
A look at the ingredients and description doesn’t really tell us much. Since alcohol is regulated by the Alcohol Tax and Trade Bureau (TTB) rather than the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) as other food and beverage products are, it doesn’t require direct ingredient labeling. While keeping their Twisted Tea recipe a secret is great for preventing competitors from recreating the drink, it’s confusing for those of us trying to figure out what exactly is in the alcoholic beverage.
Contrary to what we might think, Twisted Tea is not spiked or mixed with any alcohol. The alcoholic content is derived from the fermentation of the malt base, which is the primary component of the drink.
Malt is cereal grain that has been sprouted and dried. This process brings out the full sweetness of the grain. Malt powder has a variety of uses including sweetening milkshakes and helping baked goods rise.
Twisted Tea is made using malted barley grain. The sweetened grain is mixed with the drink's other main ingredients, including tea leaves and flavoring, and turned into alcohol through fermentation. Fermentation is the process by which yeast converts sugar into ethanol — the intoxicating component of alcohol. Beer is made through a very similar process.
So, does that mean Twisted Tea has the same alcohol content as beer?
The alcohol content in the Twisted Tea product ranges depending on the variety. The original Twisted Tea hard iced tea and similar flavors is 5% alcohol by volume (ABV). This is comparable to the average ABV of most beers.
The brand also released an “Extreme” line that contains a higher ABV at 8%. This is in line with higher-alcohol craft beers. Their most recent addition, Twisted Tea Sweet Tea Whiskey, is a bottled spirit that is comparable to other distilled spirits at an ABV of 32.5%.
We’ve determined the type and the amount of alcohol that’s in Twisted Tea, but what type of drink is it?
Twisted Tea is marketed as a hard iced tea, which only means that it’s an alcoholic version of an iced tea. It also claims to be a malt beverage — which some people may confuse with beer. So, is Twisted Tea beer? Well, Twisted Tea is not exactly a beer either.
It’s categorized as an RTD beverage, more specifically a flavored malt beverage, which falls under the more general category of malt beverages. It’s also sometimes called a “malternative” or “alcopop” (alcoholic pop). It doesn’t always contain carbonation or hops that are distinctive qualities of beer. Beer also falls under the large umbrella term of malt beverages but is not always considered a flavored malt beverage. It’s similar to how a square is a rectangle, but a rectangle is not a square with beer acting as the more general category of a rectangle.
Getting to the bottom of what Twisted Tea is can be a brain twister. However, understanding what it is helps us acknowledge its potential dangers.
Malternative or alcopop beverages like Twisted Tea are typically lower in alcohol content, but they’re just as dangerous as other alcoholic drinks. The lower alcohol content can make it seem like it’s okay to consume more — increasing the risk of binge drinking.
While lower in alcohol, Twisted Tea contains more sugar. This helps to mask the unpleasant taste of alcohol, again adding to the potential for overconsumption. Alcopops have also been identified as harmful, especially for women and adolescents, whom the sweeter profiles target.
Similar to how the availability of flavored nicotine vapes led to a rise in teenage smokers, malternatives can encourage underage drinking — one of the greatest problems in public health.
At the end of the day, Twisted Tea is no different from any other alcohol and carries the same risks. The Dietary Guidelines for Americans suggests limiting the consumption of sugary drinks and alcohol for a healthy lifestyle. Twisted Tea is a combination of both — adding to its negative effects. Some of the potential consequences of consuming Twisted Tea include the following:
Having a sip of Twisted Tea may not cause immediate, noticeable consequences, but over time it has the capability to wreak havoc on our health. Mindful consumption can help us limit the negative effects and keep us healthy and safe.
Mindful drinking practices help us approach the dangerous effects of alcoholic beverages such as Twisted Tea in a safe manner. Some ways we can practice safe alcohol consumption include the following actions:
These strategies help us practice mindful consumption, not only with Twisted Tea but also with alcohol in general, to help us make more mindful choices.
Viral memes and social media posts about Twisted Tea can make us feel like we’re missing out on something special. However, the only thing we’re missing out on by avoiding Twisted Tea is a whole host of health issues; the alcohol in Twisted Tea gives a twist to iced tea that isn’t beneficial to our overall health. Drinking is commonly associated with “having a good time,” but regular alcohol consumption is tied to a wide range of health issues. So, stick with good old-fashioned non-alcoholic iced tea. If you do decide to drink, keep it light! Mindful consumption can ensure you’re here for a good time and a long time!
Wondering if there are any alcohol-free resorts to book for your next vacation? Check out the options for sober retreats and booze-free vacations in our latest blog!
Although it isn’t a treatment for alcohol use disorder (AUD), the Reframe app can help you cut back on drinking gradually, with the science-backed knowledge to empower you 100% of the way. Our proven program has helped millions of people around the world drink less and live more. And we want to help you get there, too!
The Reframe app equips you with the knowledge and skills you need to not only survive drinking less, but to thrive while you navigate the journey. Our daily research-backed readings teach you the neuroscience of alcohol, and our in-app Toolkit provides the resources and activities you need to navigate each challenge.
You’ll meet hundreds of fellow Reframers in our 24/7 Forum chat and daily Zoom check-in meetings. Receive encouragement from people worldwide who know exactly what you’re going through! You’ll also have the opportunity to connect with our licensed Reframe coaches for more personalized guidance.
Plus, we’re always introducing new features to optimize your in-app experience. We recently launched our in-app chatbot, Melody, powered by the world’s most powerful AI technology. Melody is here to help as you adjust to a life with less (or no) alcohol.
And that’s not all! Every month, we launch fun challenges, like Dry/Damp January, Mental Health May, and Outdoorsy June. You won’t want to miss out on the chance to participate alongside fellow Reframers (or solo if that’s more your thing!).
The Reframe app is free for 7 days, so you don’t have anything to lose by trying it. Are you ready to feel empowered and discover life beyond alcohol? Then download our app through the App Store or Google Play today!
There’s an episode of Friends that features the gang going to Vegas in support of Joey’s new movie. The movie flops (not a surprise — at least not to anyone other than Joey), Phoebe gets drunk at breakfast (“I’m on vacation!”), while Ross and Rachel finish off the overpriced booze in the hotel mini fridge and get married … only to forget about it completely the next morning.
But does going to Vegas (or anywhere else for that matter) have to mean getting married by accident, being drunk at breakfast, or spending a fortune on drinks that ultimately make us forget the “fun” we had? Not at all!
For a deep dive into the benefits of alcohol-free travel, check out “How To Enjoy an Alcohol-Free Vacation: A Case for Sober Tourism.” But for now, let’s explore some great options around the U.S.!
Imagine this: you’re on a romantic getaway, transformed into a blissful happy camper (almost literally — the inn you’re staying at is in the woods). You’re prancing around outdoors, giggling with delight as you see a deer eating an apple outside your window. It’s a picturesque fairy-tale moment!
While we can’t promise a deer eating apples, The Nestle Inn in Williamsburg, Massachusetts, is the perfect nook to relax for anyone looking for an alcohol-free escape in the comfort of the New England woods. The website describes it as “just a stone's throw away from hiking, canoeing, biking, fishing, rock climbing, skiing, rafting and kayaking.”
Most importantly, The Nestle Inn is all about sober-living. Science shows that nature helps reduce alcohol cravings by 25%, so soak it in! Plus, you’re sure to meet folks who are on an alcohol journey of their own.
Tip: Check out the greenhouse. And to learn more about the role of nature in alcohol recovery, take a look at “What Is Ecotherapy? 5 Ways Time in Nature Improves Mental Well-Being.”
Music fans are painfully aware of the fact that alcohol and drugs have silenced many talented voices much too early and led other singers and musicians down the dark path of addiction. From Elvis Presley’s early death to Johnny Cash’s lifelong battle with amphetamines, and Elton John’s daily struggles with booze (“I get bombed for breakfast in the morning, I get bombed for dinner”), the examples are too many to count.
Unfortunately, the music scene can still be just as rough for fans trying to stay away from alcohol. Not so when you join forces with HOOKED on Travel! There are plenty of sober tour groups out there, and HOOKED on Travel is one of the best. They’re all about getting you “hooked” on healthy sources of inspiration and fun (or dopamine and endorphins, in “brain-speak”).
For country, folk, and Americana fans who left alcohol behind but don’t want to leave the music crowd, the “Friends in Dry Places” 5-day retreat in Tennessee will hit the spot. In addition to exploring Memphis and Nashville, Tennessee, with like-minded people, the focus on music can be especially useful on the alcohol journey. Science says that music helps us stay on track in our alcohol journey by triggering dopamine release naturally — no booze needed!
Here are some attractions to look forward to:
And since everyone in the group is living booze-free, you’ll find plenty of support with your own alcohol journey. Chances are, someone will suggest a mocktail crawl on one of the nights. There are plenty of options in Nashville and Memphis!
Ready to explore Tennessee, listen to some inspiring tunes, and meet some like-minded people along the way? Then it’s time to make some friends in dry places!
For many of us on the alcohol journey, the holidays spell trouble. New Year’s Eve alone is all but synonymous with booze, and the Times Square party doesn’t help matters with its legendary ball that drops at midnight as thousands guzzle down champagne.
Enter Melissa McGovern, the self-proclaimed “Sober New Yorker” and founder of the “New York Christmas Experience.” Her three-day program will take you through the enchanting sites of holiday-time New York with others who’ve said goodbye to alcohol and leave more room for the magic.
Here are some highlights:
Tip: Find out more about Melissa before you go. Her journey from being a “gray area drinker” to a healthier and happier sober version of herself is truly inspiring. (And to learn more about gray area drinking in general, take a look at “What Is Gray Area Drinking?”)
When it comes to the alcohol journey, mindfulness is key. And it’s more than a New Age obsession: science shows that mindfulness physically changes the structure of our brain and sets us up for success by improving cognitive abilities, stabilizing our mood, and reducing cravings. It’s (at least) a triple win!
Here’s where the California weekend retreat at Joshua Tree comes in! The goal of this unique destination is to make the practices of meditation, mindfulness, shamanic rituals, and hypnosis more accessible to those on the journey to becoming the best version of themselves.
In the words of Thich Nhat Hanh, whose book, The Art of Living, echoes these principles:
“Every human being can become a buddha. This is good news. We all have the seeds of mindfulness, love, understanding, and compassion, and whether these good seeds have a chance to grow depends on our environment and our experiences … You have to give the buddha in you a chance … If you wake up to the beauties of nature, you are already a buddha. And if you know how to maintain that spirit of being awake all day, you are a full-time buddha.”
The goal of the Joshua Tree retreat, in turn, is to grant us those experiences so we can all turn into full-time buddhas ourselves. Ready for your spiritual upgrade? Here are some things to look forward to:
Many of the practices you’ll have a chance to explore are especially useful for those on the alcohol journey. Unlocking past traumas in a safe environment, tapping into the power of sound to center the mind, and using creativity for a natural boost of dopamine are all valuable tools to explore!
Wherever you are right now, it’s likely that someone is talking in the background — the kids getting ready for school, your partner on the phone, a YouTube video playing in the background, or the neighbors chatting in the hallway. Let’s face it — there are not that many silent moments in our lives.
But when it comes to the alcohol journey, moments of silence are precious. Whether we spend it journaling, meditating, or pursuing a creative activity that gets us into “flow state,” we need time for introspection without outside distractions.
The unique retreat experience in the Sierra Nevada mountains does just that! Designed to meet your particular needs and get in touch with your authentic self, the eco-lodge healing sanctuary is a treasure trove of therapeutic tools to help you relax and “level up” in your personal journey. Here’s a preview:
Ready for your “cosmic adventure”? Then it’s time to sign up and indulge in the silence. (And while you’re at it, check out some “Practical Tips for Incorporating Mindful Living Practices to Support Sobriety.”)
Finally, we come to Miraval — unique wellness resorts that start with that all-important question: “What is your intention?” Here at Reframe we’re all about discovering your “why” when it comes to alcohol. Starting with a clear intention is key!
However, important as intentions are, it’s also crucial to act on them. As E.M. Forster writes in Where Angels Fear to Tread, “You told me once that we shall be judged by our intentions, not by our accomplishments. I thought it a grand remark. But we must intend to accomplish — not sit intending on a chair.”
At Miraval resorts in Texas, Arizona, and Massachusetts, you can turn that intention into action. Here’s an overview:
Ready to leave that metaphorical chair and dive in? Miraval awaits to give you that bit of momentum to let your intention blossom into a life-changing experience.
Let’s face it, going on vacation is supposed to be relaxing. And that’s at the minimum. Ideally, it’s also a time to reflect, strengthen relationships, learn about interesting places, and meet new people. But how much of this is actually accomplished if we start the day with a mimosa?
Here’s where alcohol-free resorts come in. Without booze clouding our mind and stealing those precious vacation hours, we can truly rest and recharge. Say bye to booze, and say hello to true relaxation!
As Terry Pratchett writes in A Hat Full of Sky:
“Why do you go away? So that you can come back. So that you can see the place you came from with new eyes and extra colors. And the people there see you differently, too. Coming back to where you started is not the same as never leaving.”
All in all, traveling without booze makes it possible to “come back” to ourselves in a new and exciting way. With a clear mind, earlier mornings, and more energy to tackle the day, we can leave our vacation feeling truly rested and refreshed. Moreover, we can use this time to give our alcohol journey new momentum through self-reflection, meeting new people, and finding new sources of inspiration for a booze-free life. Happy travels!
There’s an episode of Friends that features the gang going to Vegas in support of Joey’s new movie. The movie flops (not a surprise — at least not to anyone other than Joey), Phoebe gets drunk at breakfast (“I’m on vacation!”), while Ross and Rachel finish off the overpriced booze in the hotel mini fridge and get married … only to forget about it completely the next morning.
But does going to Vegas (or anywhere else for that matter) have to mean getting married by accident, being drunk at breakfast, or spending a fortune on drinks that ultimately make us forget the “fun” we had? Not at all!
For a deep dive into the benefits of alcohol-free travel, check out “How To Enjoy an Alcohol-Free Vacation: A Case for Sober Tourism.” But for now, let’s explore some great options around the U.S.!
Imagine this: you’re on a romantic getaway, transformed into a blissful happy camper (almost literally — the inn you’re staying at is in the woods). You’re prancing around outdoors, giggling with delight as you see a deer eating an apple outside your window. It’s a picturesque fairy-tale moment!
While we can’t promise a deer eating apples, The Nestle Inn in Williamsburg, Massachusetts, is the perfect nook to relax for anyone looking for an alcohol-free escape in the comfort of the New England woods. The website describes it as “just a stone's throw away from hiking, canoeing, biking, fishing, rock climbing, skiing, rafting and kayaking.”
Most importantly, The Nestle Inn is all about sober-living. Science shows that nature helps reduce alcohol cravings by 25%, so soak it in! Plus, you’re sure to meet folks who are on an alcohol journey of their own.
Tip: Check out the greenhouse. And to learn more about the role of nature in alcohol recovery, take a look at “What Is Ecotherapy? 5 Ways Time in Nature Improves Mental Well-Being.”
Music fans are painfully aware of the fact that alcohol and drugs have silenced many talented voices much too early and led other singers and musicians down the dark path of addiction. From Elvis Presley’s early death to Johnny Cash’s lifelong battle with amphetamines, and Elton John’s daily struggles with booze (“I get bombed for breakfast in the morning, I get bombed for dinner”), the examples are too many to count.
Unfortunately, the music scene can still be just as rough for fans trying to stay away from alcohol. Not so when you join forces with HOOKED on Travel! There are plenty of sober tour groups out there, and HOOKED on Travel is one of the best. They’re all about getting you “hooked” on healthy sources of inspiration and fun (or dopamine and endorphins, in “brain-speak”).
For country, folk, and Americana fans who left alcohol behind but don’t want to leave the music crowd, the “Friends in Dry Places” 5-day retreat in Tennessee will hit the spot. In addition to exploring Memphis and Nashville, Tennessee, with like-minded people, the focus on music can be especially useful on the alcohol journey. Science says that music helps us stay on track in our alcohol journey by triggering dopamine release naturally — no booze needed!
Here are some attractions to look forward to:
And since everyone in the group is living booze-free, you’ll find plenty of support with your own alcohol journey. Chances are, someone will suggest a mocktail crawl on one of the nights. There are plenty of options in Nashville and Memphis!
Ready to explore Tennessee, listen to some inspiring tunes, and meet some like-minded people along the way? Then it’s time to make some friends in dry places!
For many of us on the alcohol journey, the holidays spell trouble. New Year’s Eve alone is all but synonymous with booze, and the Times Square party doesn’t help matters with its legendary ball that drops at midnight as thousands guzzle down champagne.
Enter Melissa McGovern, the self-proclaimed “Sober New Yorker” and founder of the “New York Christmas Experience.” Her three-day program will take you through the enchanting sites of holiday-time New York with others who’ve said goodbye to alcohol and leave more room for the magic.
Here are some highlights:
Tip: Find out more about Melissa before you go. Her journey from being a “gray area drinker” to a healthier and happier sober version of herself is truly inspiring. (And to learn more about gray area drinking in general, take a look at “What Is Gray Area Drinking?”)
When it comes to the alcohol journey, mindfulness is key. And it’s more than a New Age obsession: science shows that mindfulness physically changes the structure of our brain and sets us up for success by improving cognitive abilities, stabilizing our mood, and reducing cravings. It’s (at least) a triple win!
Here’s where the California weekend retreat at Joshua Tree comes in! The goal of this unique destination is to make the practices of meditation, mindfulness, shamanic rituals, and hypnosis more accessible to those on the journey to becoming the best version of themselves.
In the words of Thich Nhat Hanh, whose book, The Art of Living, echoes these principles:
“Every human being can become a buddha. This is good news. We all have the seeds of mindfulness, love, understanding, and compassion, and whether these good seeds have a chance to grow depends on our environment and our experiences … You have to give the buddha in you a chance … If you wake up to the beauties of nature, you are already a buddha. And if you know how to maintain that spirit of being awake all day, you are a full-time buddha.”
The goal of the Joshua Tree retreat, in turn, is to grant us those experiences so we can all turn into full-time buddhas ourselves. Ready for your spiritual upgrade? Here are some things to look forward to:
Many of the practices you’ll have a chance to explore are especially useful for those on the alcohol journey. Unlocking past traumas in a safe environment, tapping into the power of sound to center the mind, and using creativity for a natural boost of dopamine are all valuable tools to explore!
Wherever you are right now, it’s likely that someone is talking in the background — the kids getting ready for school, your partner on the phone, a YouTube video playing in the background, or the neighbors chatting in the hallway. Let’s face it — there are not that many silent moments in our lives.
But when it comes to the alcohol journey, moments of silence are precious. Whether we spend it journaling, meditating, or pursuing a creative activity that gets us into “flow state,” we need time for introspection without outside distractions.
The unique retreat experience in the Sierra Nevada mountains does just that! Designed to meet your particular needs and get in touch with your authentic self, the eco-lodge healing sanctuary is a treasure trove of therapeutic tools to help you relax and “level up” in your personal journey. Here’s a preview:
Ready for your “cosmic adventure”? Then it’s time to sign up and indulge in the silence. (And while you’re at it, check out some “Practical Tips for Incorporating Mindful Living Practices to Support Sobriety.”)
Finally, we come to Miraval — unique wellness resorts that start with that all-important question: “What is your intention?” Here at Reframe we’re all about discovering your “why” when it comes to alcohol. Starting with a clear intention is key!
However, important as intentions are, it’s also crucial to act on them. As E.M. Forster writes in Where Angels Fear to Tread, “You told me once that we shall be judged by our intentions, not by our accomplishments. I thought it a grand remark. But we must intend to accomplish — not sit intending on a chair.”
At Miraval resorts in Texas, Arizona, and Massachusetts, you can turn that intention into action. Here’s an overview:
Ready to leave that metaphorical chair and dive in? Miraval awaits to give you that bit of momentum to let your intention blossom into a life-changing experience.
Let’s face it, going on vacation is supposed to be relaxing. And that’s at the minimum. Ideally, it’s also a time to reflect, strengthen relationships, learn about interesting places, and meet new people. But how much of this is actually accomplished if we start the day with a mimosa?
Here’s where alcohol-free resorts come in. Without booze clouding our mind and stealing those precious vacation hours, we can truly rest and recharge. Say bye to booze, and say hello to true relaxation!
As Terry Pratchett writes in A Hat Full of Sky:
“Why do you go away? So that you can come back. So that you can see the place you came from with new eyes and extra colors. And the people there see you differently, too. Coming back to where you started is not the same as never leaving.”
All in all, traveling without booze makes it possible to “come back” to ourselves in a new and exciting way. With a clear mind, earlier mornings, and more energy to tackle the day, we can leave our vacation feeling truly rested and refreshed. Moreover, we can use this time to give our alcohol journey new momentum through self-reflection, meeting new people, and finding new sources of inspiration for a booze-free life. Happy travels!
