As the U.S. prepares for another Sober October, the conversation around alcohol consumption and its impacts on both the economy and the health of American workers intensifies. With the latest data from the National Survey on Drug Use and Health showing a consistent trend in excessive drinking, the effects are felt far beyond individual households—costing the U.S. economy billions in lost productivity each year.
A study by the Centre for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that alcohol misuse, including hangovers, costs the economy $249 billion annually, with $77 billion attributed to hangovers alone. These figures underline the urgent need for a shift in how we approach alcohol consumption in both social and professional settings.
"Alcohol misuse not only affects personal health but also has a significant impact on our economy," said Professor David Nutt, Chief Scientific Officer of SENTIA Spirits. "By focusing on the brain's natural GABA system, SENTIA offers a science-backed solution that enables relaxation and sociability without the harmful effects of alcohol. Our mission is to help people make healthier choices, reducing the negative impact that alcohol has on both individuals and society."
Amid this backdrop, a new category of drinks is emerging that offers American workers, businesses, and the economy an opportunity for positive change. The rise of no-low, zero percent alcohol, and functional alternatives, such as those developed by SENTIA Spirits, presents a solution that not only addresses the problems associated with alcohol misuse but also offers tangible benefits for workers’ health, productivity, and social experiences.
And this new category of adult drinks is gaining traction. Recent trends show that younger generations, particularly Gen Z and millennials, are increasingly choosing health-conscious, alcohol-free alternatives, contributing to a 35% rise in sales of non-alcoholic beverages in 2023 alone.
These consumers, who make up a growing proportion of the U.S. workforce, are looking for products that support their lifestyle choices and align with their values of wellness and productivity. Moreover, a growing body of research shows that functional alternatives to alcohol, such as those designed to enhance brain function and promote relaxation without intoxication, are increasingly popular among those seeking new social drinking experiences.
"The rise of no-low and functional alternatives like SENTIA is more than just a trend—it's a response to a clear demand from consumers for healthier, more mindful drinking options," said David Orren, CEO of SENTIA Spirits. "We're excited to lead this new era of social drinking, where people can gather, connect, and celebrate without compromising their well-being or productivity."
SENTIA Spirits, co-founded by Professor David Nutt, is at the forefront of this movement. As a pioneer in functional drinks, SENTIA offers adult social drinkers more than just a replacement for alcohol—it provides a wellness-focused alternative that enhances the brain’s natural GABA system to foster relaxation and sociability. With two drinks currently available—SENTIA Spirits GABA Red and SENTIA Spirits GABA Black—SENTIA is transforming the way people approach social drinking, both with and without alcohol. By giving drinkers the option to unlock their natural relaxation mechanisms, SENTIA aims to support healthier choices that are better for both the individual and society as a whole.
For American workers, the benefits of these alternatives go beyond personal wellness. Reduced alcohol consumption has been linked to improved workplace productivity, lower absenteeism, and fewer alcohol-related health issues—all critical factors in today’s economy. With alcohol consumption costing U.S. businesses in terms of lost workdays and diminished performance, the rise of functional, non-alcoholic alternatives offers a path to a more productive and healthier workforce.
The no-low and functional drinks market is not only reshaping consumer behavior but also opening up new opportunities for businesses. Industry bodies and sectors focused on employee wellness are increasingly looking towards these alternatives as part of broader health initiatives aimed at supporting worker well-being. Whether it’s through corporate wellness programs or partnerships with emerging brands like SENTIA, companies are starting to recognize the long-term benefits that these products can offer.
As the U.S. navigates Sober October and beyond, the question is no longer about whether consumers will continue to moderate their alcohol intake—it’s about how businesses can adapt to and support this growing trend. With SENTIA Spirits leading the way, the future of social drinking is shifting towards healthier, functional alternatives that promise both individual and societal benefits.
For more information, visit SENTIA Spirits or contact david.orren@gabalabs.com.
- ENDS -
About SENTIA Spirits
SENTIA Spirits is a functional drinks company co-founded by Professor David Nutt in 2020. Specializing in drinks that enhance the brain's natural GABA system, SENTIA provides adult social drinkers with alternatives that promote relaxation and sociability. SENTIA currently operates in the UK, USA, and EU, offering two unique products: SENTIA Spirits GABA Red and SENTIA Spirits GABA Black. SENTIA’s mission is to unlock your GABA and change the way you drink.
Media Contact: carlotta@carlottapr.com