Still vs Sparkling: Nonalcoholic Drinks with Health Benefits

Two nonalcoholic drinks in glasses displayed side by side: a still drink and a sparkling drink | Coy Cordials

You’re at a nice restaurant and asked the simple question: would you prefer flat or sparkling water? Sometimes it’s an easy choice and sometimes it depends on our mood, our meal, or even the preferences of those we are dining with. Just like with water, nonalcoholic drinks can be either flat - aka still - or sparkling. Still drinks are non-carbonated and have a smooth texture, while sparkling drinks are carbonated and have a fizzy sensation. Both types of drinks can hydrate and nourish the body, but they may affect taste and digestion differently.

People may prefer still drinks because they are easier to drink and digest, or people simply don’t like the fizzy sensation in their mouth. Still drinks can be more versatile and customizable, as they can be mixed with other liquids, such as juices, mixers, and zero proof spirits. Still drinks can be served at room temperature, chilled, or over ice, depending on the desired effect.

On the other hand, people may prefer sparkling drinks because they find the effervescence to be more refreshing and stimulating. Sparkling drinks can also give off a more fun and festive vibe, as they mimic the feeling of drinking a cocktail or sipping on champagne. The fizz of sparkling drinks can be a great alternative to soda and other sugary drinks, as they typically contain fewer calories and less sugar.

Whether still or sparkling, there are functional options for both - drinks include adaptogens to improve health beyond simply cutting back on alcohol.

(Some below are affiliate links, which means if you click & purchase the item we may receive a small token of commission at no extra cost to you. That said, all opinions and recommendations are our own.)

How Nonalcoholic Adaptogenic Drinks Can Improve Health

Nonalcoholic adaptogenic drinks are beverages that contain natural ingredients, such as herbs, plants, and mushrooms, that help the body and mind cope with stress. Adaptogens work by regulating the stress response system and restoring balance in the body. Some of the benefits of adaptogens include reducing inflammation and oxidative stress, enhancing mood and focus, boosting energy and immunity, and supporting hormonal health.

Some examples of adaptogens that are commonly used in nonalcoholic drinks are ashwagandha, rhodiola, holy basil, reishi mushroom, and ginseng. These adaptogens can be combined with other natural flavors, such as fruits, flowers, and spices, to create delicious and refreshing drinks. For people who are mindful of their health or trying to drink less, replacing alcohol with adaptogenic drinks can provide added health benefits. Alcohol free adaptogenic drinks come in many varieties so sparkling or still drink enthusiasts have their choice. Whether you’re looking for a lively and festive fizzy drink or prefer your nonalcoholic cocktail without the carbonation or bubbly taste sensation, several flavorful options are available.

Non Alcoholic Fizzy Drinks & Cocktails with Adaptogens

Are you more of a sparkling drink enthusiast? Maybe you’re craving a drink that can mimic the feeling of drinking a fizzy cocktail or champagne. Get that and more with these sparkling nonalcoholic adaptogenic drinks.

  • Tranquini: Looking for a sparkling water stress relief beverage that contains herbal adaptogens, such as lemon balm, chamomile, lavender, and green tea? TranQuini enhances hydration while supporting your wellbeing with adaptogens green tea (source of L Theanine), chamomile, and lemon balm. The hibiscus flavor gives you a delightful combination of tart and sweet, floral and fruity flavors for a crisp and refreshing, lightly sparkling drink. Or try the variety pack if you also want ginger, berry, and mint.

  • Recess Zero Proof Cocktails: If you’re looking for a straight-up cocktail alternative with no alcohol, try the Recess mocktail variety pack - it includes zero proof craft mocktails in four flavors: Lime "Margarita,” Grapefruit "Paloma,” Ginger Lime "Mule” and Watermelon "Mojito" in a sampler 12-pack. The mocktails are infused with uplifting guayusa and adaptogens lemon balm and L-theanine, all for a balanced boost.

  • Recess Mood Drinks: For winding down or a more balanced mood, these magnesium and adaptogen infused sparkling drinks are designed to help you unwind. They feature magnesium L-threonate, a form of magnesium shown to raise brain magnesium levels, with adaptogens L-theanine and lemon balm to help the body and mind maintain a calm and balanced state. We love the black cherry, brewed with real dried cherries for a not-too-sweet juicy black cherry flavor. Or try the sampler pack which includes strawberry rose, raspberry lemon, lime citrus and grapefruit tangerine - brewed with real fruit and herbs.,

  • DeSoi: For a more complex flavor, the brand brought to you by Katy Perry delivers a sophisticated non-alcoholic sparkling beverage with natural botanicals and adaptogens “for a mood-boosting buzz without the booze”. These sparkling apéritifs are non-alcoholic and ready to drink straight from the can or over ice. The variety pack features three signature flavors: Golden Hour, Champignon Dreams and Purple Lune with feel-good adaptogens L-theanine, ashwagandha, and reishi mushroom. (Our favorite is golden hour, with a zesty taste of citrus, lemongrass, and leafy herbs, but if you don’t like lemongrass you won’t like this one.)

Non-fizzy Alcohol-Free Drinks without Carbonation or Bubbles

Is a still or flat drink more your jam? Try these nonalcoholic adaptogenic drinks that will satisfy your thirst, without bubbles or carbonation.

  • Moment: With a variety of flavors to choose from, Moment drinks are made with real fruits and immunity-boosting botanicals like ginger, jasmine, rooibos, & ceylon cinnamon. They support gut health and improve overall wellness with ashwagandha & L-theanine adaptogens. Try this spicy ‘spiced mango’ flavor for a zippy drink on ice or the variety pack that also includes blueberry ginger and blood orange.

  • Kin Euphorics Dream Light: When you’re ready for a still, peaceful non alcoholic nightcap there’s a craft beverage waiting for you in Dream Light. This smooth drink can be served over ice or warm and mixed with oat milk or almond milk. Flavors are reminiscent of an earthy oak with smoky clove and a bit spicy cinnamon and it contains adaptogens L-Theanine, reishi mushroom for a mellow sense of calm and quiet.

  • Aplós Arise: If you’re ready for a functional, non-alcoholic spirit for a night with friends here’s your drink. Arise provides the relaxation ritual that might be associated with having a cocktail but without the downsides. Made with high-quality extracts this zero proof spirit has an herbal citrus profile with notes of agave flower, lemon verbena, and black Sarawak. Functional, with adaptogens, it be served over ice or cut with water. Arise is formulated to promote elevated mood, energy boost, and stimulated brain function designed specifically for social occasions.

Ultimately, the choice between still and sparkling drinks depends on personal taste. Nonalcoholic adaptogenic drinks are offered in both types of drinks and can offer health benefits and enjoyment, as long as they are consumed in moderation and as part of a balanced diet. Which do you prefer? Try something new and you may be surprised. Cheers!

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