Hard Seltzer’s Addictive Allure

Cracking open a can of hard seltzer has become a ritual for many party-goers and casual drinkers. And why wouldn’t it be? After all, these drinks are safe, unlike alcohol, right? Wrong! Even though these beverages have taken the world by storm, behind their seemingly harmless exterior lies a potential pitfall: the Dangers of Hard Seltzer are becoming more apparent.

What are Hard Seltzers?

Hard seltzers combine carbonated water with alcohol derived from fermented cane sugar or malted barley. The result is a light, refreshing drink with relatively low alcohol content, typically ranging from 4% to 6% alcohol by volume. A splash of natural or artificial flavors with sweeteners is also used to enhance the taste.

The Addictive Nature of Hard Seltzers

Hard seltzers have exploded in popularity in recent years. As of 2023, the hard seltzer market has achieved an impressive revenue of US$17.24 billion. Industry experts even predict a consistent annual growth rate of 8.51% from 2023 to 2027 (CAGR).

So, what makes hard seltzers so addictive? It starts with their fizzing appeal. The carbonation in hard seltzers combined with sugar creates a sensory experience that can increase cravings. Moreover, their often-fruit-infused flavors make it more difficult to pace yourself and be mindful of the amount you are drinking.

But most importantly, hard seltzers contain alcohol. And alcohol, in any form, can be dangerous. Alcohol addiction is a progressive disease, and the enjoyable taste and texture of hard seltzers can fuel alcohol cravings.      

The Dangers of Hard Seltzers

Being aware of the dangers of hard seltzer is important.

• Seemingly harmless: Due to their fruity flavors and easy drinkability, people may consume them more quickly than other alcoholic beverages. This can make it harder to gauge how much alcohol has been consumed, potentially leading to overconsumption. Of course, that comes with associated risks, such as impaired judgment, coordination, and decision-making.
• Dehydration: Secondly, hard seltzers can contribute to dehydration. Although they may seem refreshing, they contain alcohol, a diuretic that increases urine production and fluid loss. This can lead to dehydration, especially if consumed excessively or combined with physical activity.
• Worsen health conditions: The carbonation and acidity in these beverages may exacerbate digestive issues like acid reflux or irritable bowel syndrome. Plus, their high sugar content can be problematic for individuals with diabetes or those trying to manage their weight.

Alcoholism and Hard Seltzers: A Slippery Slope

Hard seltzers are made from a mixture of alcohol, carbonated water, and fruit flavoring. Hard seltzers typically contain 5 to 7 percent alcohol content. Because of the taste, it is often hard to keep track of how much you are consuming. This is worrisome for a variety of reasons, but most significantly, this can turn a one or two drinks on the weekend habit into a daily drinking very quickly. Alcohol addiction builds up gradually, and for a variety of reasons. Before you know it, you may be overcome by an uncontrollable urge to consume alcohol, which is quickly followed by severe consequences.

Seek Treatment for Alcohol Addiction at Encore Outpatient Services

There are various warning signs to help detect alcohol misuse and alcoholism. If left untreated, alcohol abuse can spiral out of control and detrimentally impact your life. Hard seltzer is one example of how easily you can feed an alcohol problem without even realizing it. Often, individuals reach for alcohol to unwind after a long day. Two seltzers can quickly turn into five seltzers or ten seltzers.

There is a solution. If you or your loved ones are facing challenges with alcohol or substance use, delaying taking action is never a good idea. Don’t hesitate to seek assistance. At Encore Outpatient Services, located in Arlington, we’re here to provide you with the necessary resources and support for your journey to recovery. Our comprehensive treatment options cater to diverse needs. That’s how we ensure that we can find the ideal solution for your success. Reach out to us today to discover more about our addiction treatment programs and the ways in which we can support you. Your path to recovery starts now!