18/7/2026

LYFE SATURDAY | JULY 18, 2026

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Skipping alcohol at parties

asleep faster. Drinking non-alcoholic beverages lets people stay social without sacrificing health benefits such as better rest and reduced chronic risk factors. These health concerns help explain why non-alcoholic beverages are now marketed as part of a wellness lifestyle. Younger adults lead the shift These days, it is the younger generations who are driving the shift away from alcohol. According to a State of Beverages 2025 report, more than 60% of people in Gen Z choose non-alcoholic drinks when socialising, the highest among age groups. Many members of this generation prioritise control, health and social experience without the negative effects of alcohol. That includes avoiding hangovers or unwanted behaviour due to drinking. This trend is also part of broader changes in drinking habits. Alcohol consumption among young adults in places like the US has declined over the past decade. Another factor is how social norms have and continue to evolve. A multi-country survey by Heineken and the University of Oxford found that 68% of adults had tried no- or low-alcohol drinks and 80 % believed

A T parties and social events, from modern day stretching back thousands of years, alcohol has traditionally played a central role in their festivities and merriment. But many people today choose non-alcoholic drinks instead. Not just teetotallers, but also health-minded adults and young adults who want to enjoy the party without alcohol’s downsides. Research and industry data show this is a real shift in how people socialise. One major reason people switch to non-alcoholic drinks at parties is health and wellness. Alcohol is linked with short-term effects such as hangovers and impaired judgement, and long-term risks – including liver disease, heart issues and increased cancer risk. Choosing alcohol-free alternatives reduces these risks. Many adults are also mindful of calories and sleep quality, as alcohol disrupts sleep cycles even if it helps people fall o Health, youth culture, better choices change drinking habits Ű BY MARK MATHEN VICTOR

Creative recipes are expanding choices beyond beer and wine. – PICS FROM MAGNIFIC

these alternatives are more socially acceptable now than five years ago. Having said that, the social pressure to drink alcohol persists for some, as about a third of younger adults in the survey felt pressure to drink alcohol in social situations. Nonetheless, the data show growing acceptance of non-alcoholic options in social settings. Better drinks, broader inclusion Non-alcoholic drinks themselves are also better than before. Beverage makers have developed complex flavours and creative recipes that mimic alcoholic drinks without the ethanol, giving consumers enjoyable choices. Ingredients such as herbs, citrus, exotic syrups and botanic elements deliver flavourful alternatives to alcohol from mocktails to non alcoholic beers and wines. This increase in variety makes it easier for partygoers to enjoy a sophisticated drink without alcohol. There is also the element of social inclusivity. Offering non-alcoholic options at parties lets everyone participate in toasting and enjoying a drink regardless of personal preferences, health conditions, religious reasons or recovery journeys.

Colourful non-alcoholic options now match traditional drinks in flavour and presentation.

striping” – or skipping alcohol altogether, reflects a broader shift in how people value health, social comfort and quality experience at gatherings. In short, people are choosing non alcoholic drinks at parties for verified reasons: better health, shifting norms, wider choice of flavours and inclusivity. This change cuts across age groups, though younger adults lead it and shows how social drinking culture is evolving.

The presence of inclusive drinks helps people feel welcome and reduces stigma for those who opt out of alcohol entirely. Pressure remains, habits change Still, some challenges remain. Social expectations and peer pressure can make choosing non-alcoholic drinks harder in certain groups but overall, the trend towards mindful drinking, whether alternating alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks – called “zebra

Many choose sober options to avoid hangovers and stay present all night.

TASTY RECIPE

VI R GIN PINA COLADA S erves : 2 Prep time : 5 minutes Ingredients: 0 2 cups fresh or frozen pineapple chunks 0 1 cup pineapple juice 0 ½ cup coconut cream (for a richer drink) or coconut milk (for a lighter version) 0 1½ cups ice 0 1 tbsp fresh lime juice (optional, for brightness) 0 1–2 tbsp sugar or honey (optional, depending on the sweetness of the pineapple) To garnish: Pineapple wedge Maraschino cherry Toasted coconut flakes (optional) Instructions: 1. Add the pineapple chunks,

pineapple coconut cream, ice and lime juice to a blender. 2. Blend until smooth and creamy. 3. Taste and adjust the sweetness if needed by adding sugar or honey. 4. Pour into chilled glasses. 5. Garnish with a pineapple wedge and a maraschino cherry. Sprinkle with toasted coconut flakes if desired. Tips: 1. For a thicker, creamier texture: Use frozen pineapple instead of fresh and reduce the ice slightly. 2. For a tropical twist: Add half a ripe banana or a few chunks of mango before blending. 3. For a cafe-style finish: Drizzle a little coconut cream around the inside of the glass before pouring in the drink. juice,

– 123RFPIC