A drug expert has explained why you shouldn’t drive after drinking a non-alcoholic tipple he created that makes your brain feel like it’s drunk.
It’s common knowledge that you should never get behind the wheel after having an alcoholic drink – and that is even if you feel absolutely fine.
With your reaction time hindered and judgement impaired, there’s also a the risk of a false sense of confidence. Combined, we’re talking brutally devastating consequences.
UK government data from 2023 reported that an estimated 6,740 people were killed or injured when at least one driver was over the drink-drive limit. Sadly, this was an increase of four percent from the previous year.
Now, with Dry January well under way, many are cutting out the booze in a health kick to start of the new year.
And some are turning to non-alcoholic alternatives to keep that social aspect going.
And one particular non-alcoholic brand has produced a tipple that will mimic the effects of alcohol on your brain without you consuming any of the product. But a warning has been issued about drinking it and driving.
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Non-alcoholic Sentia Spirits explained
The drinks we are talking about are created by Sentia Spirits; a line of zero percent drinks that give you that ‘gentle buzz’ without the hangover or negative health effects of drinking alcohol.
Sentia drinks are completely legal to buy and are the brainchild of Professor David Nutt and his team.
Professor Nutt told The Independent: “It’s a drink that is based on the science of alcohol, particularly the low doses of alcohol that relax you and make you more sociable.”
Don’t Sentia and drive
That’s the message from Sentia Spirits’ very own Prof Nutt.
Firstly, Prof Nutt said that Sentia products are positioned as something ‘only for people who are old enough to drink alcohol’ due to how it impacts you as a relaxant. And it is because of this that he says you shouldn’t drive after consuming it, telling Stylist it is ‘probably not sensible’ given its relaxing effect on the body and mind.
The Sentia website echoes its creator’s words. On its frequently asked questions page, it reads: “Some users have reported GABA Red making them drowsy, so we do not recommend driving after consuming GABA Red.
“While there is nothing in the GABA Black blend that should impact driving, we recommend you use your best judgement.”
What is GABA and how does it work?
Dr Suzanne Wylie, GP and medical adviser for IQdoctor, told LADbible that GABA – which stands for gamma-aminobutyric acid – ‘is a neurotransmitter that plays a crucial role in regulating anxiety, relaxation, and social bonding’.
“These drinks often include a blend of botanicals and compounds that can either directly stimulate GABA receptors or promote the production of GABA, leading to a calming effect without the intoxicating side effects of alcohol,” Dr Wylie said.
Working in a similar way to CBD drinks, they ‘target the brain’s natural biochemistry’. She explained: “They may work by enhancing GABA’s ability to bind to its receptors in the brain or by reducing the breakdown of GABA, increasing its availability.”
The best booze alternatives to try now
Best for IPA fans: BERO Variety Pack, £27 (approx)
Tom Holland’s new sober drinks range is a pretty good place to start. The variety pack comes with three booze-free tinnies: Kingston Golden Pils, Edge Hill Hazy IPA, and Noon Wheat. It’s gone down a treat with customers too – just take a look at the five-star reviews if you need convincing.
Best imitation stout: Guinness Zero, £2.83 per can
Guinness fans say this is the closest you’ll get to the real deal – and production of Guinness Zero tripled last year, so you’ll be in good company here.
Best ice-cold lager: Peroni, £4.60 per case
Of course, there was only one place to look. Peroni 0.0% claims to have the flavour of the renowned lager without the booze. It’s only £4.60 for a case, so you’re saving pennies too.
Best IPA variety pack: Lucky Saint, £22 (12 pack)
One of the best non-alcoholic beer brands on the market, Lucky Saint proudly uses centuries-old techniques to create modern beers that give maximum flavour (without the hangover). This pack comes with everything you need to survive Dry Jan: a new Superior Hazy IPA and Superior Unfiltered Lager.
Best real-tasting G&T: Tanqueray Alcohol Free Spirit, £15.90
If your go-to order is a good old G&T, then look no further than Tanqueray. Fans recommend mixing with a mediterranean tonic for best results.
Best booze-free cider: Galipette Brut Dry Cider, £30 per litre
If it’s cider you’re after, then Galipette has hundreds of five-star reviews. One shopper raved: “Wow. This is now my number one alcohol-free cider. I love the balance of sharpness and sweetness which, for me, is spot on.” Sold.
Most impressive rum: Caleño Dark and Spicy, £19
The best alternative to spiced rum? Caleño Dark and Spicy. Crafted from tropical pineapple, fiery ginger, and zesty limes, it’s a punchy flavour that feels like summer.
