‘The industry is growing’: Central Oregon businesses serving up non-alcoholic options for Dry January
(Update: adding video, comments from businesses, addiction clinic)
BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) -- The new year brings a fresh opportunity to focus on health, and for many, that means taking part in Dry January by going alcohol-free for the month.
In Central Oregon, venues like The Dez Lounge in Bend and Bon Esprits Bottles in Redmond are providing non-alcoholic drink options for those taking part in the challenge.
"I think in general there's this sober movement that January is sort of the gateway to dipping your toes in and exploring some of the non-alcoholic options," said JoAnna Eisler, the owner of Bon Esprits Bottles.
Eisler recently opened the non-alcoholic bottle shop inside Arome in downtown Redmond. She says Dry January has been a frequent topic of conversation.
"I am surprised by the number of young people that, are coming in, and are really enthusiastic about, having a healthier option," Eisler said.
Dez owner Corrine Coxey says non-alcoholic beverages are growing in popularity.
 "The industry itself is growing so fast. I mean, every time. I log in to my wholesale account to place an order, there's a new product, there's a new company," Coxey said.
BestCare Addiction Medicine Clinic says mocktails can be a good alternative to alcohol, but may also come with negative effects.
Certified addiction nurse practitioner Christi Halter said, "Being mindful about what is going in those mocktails is definitely important because, you know, just increasing sugar intake is going to also have negative health benefits in the long run."
The non-alcoholic spots stress that their drinks aren't just sugary substitutes for alcohol.
"I've been really intentional about putting options that don't have any added sugar," Eisler said.
Even taking a short break from alcohol can bring many benefits.
Halter said, "Folks who want to do Dry January can experience benefits in terms of better sleep, better hydration status, better clarity of thought and thinking processes."
A new advisory from U.S. Surgeon General Surgeon General Dr. Vivek Murthy warns alcohol consumption can increase cancer risks.
He's calling for an updated health warning label on these beverages.
Halter said, "So they're seeing cancer risk increase even with just one drink a day. It's not without harm to the body, especially drinking heavily or frequently."
This month can be a tough time for Oregon breweries. Places such as Crux Fermentation Project are offering non-alcoholic beers to promote Pub January.
