CNET staff -- not advertisers, partners or business interests -- determine how we review products and services. If you buy through our links, we may earn a commission.
If you're sober, sober curious or simply looking to cut back on alcohol, you might be planning to enjoy nonalcoholic drinks all year round. For folks who like to host, these beverages are great alcohol alternatives to serve to people who don't want to drink booze. Fortunately, nonalcoholic drinks have come a long way, and many brands now offer alcohol-free alternatives that taste great and even have added health benefits.
A dry challenge
If you hadn't noticed, more adults are going sober or cutting back on their alcohol intake. According to Hilary Sheinbaum, journalist and author of The Dry Challenge, there are various reasons why people are saying no to alcohol. "There are health benefits like better sleep, better digestion, more energy and weight loss ... and some people are sick and tired of being hungover," she says. Sheinbaum points out that there's plenty of research regarding the hazards of drinking, and millennials and Gen Zers tend to adopt lifestyles that are more health-conscious (and less boozy) than their predecessors'.
If you or a loved one is considering giving alcohol the boot this summer -- or even if you're just going to be the designated driver for the next party -- you'll be pleased to know that there are a variety of nonalcoholic beers, wines, spirits and functional beverages that have the flavor profiles of your favorite alcohol-based drinks, without the buzz. We researched and personally taste-tested 15 nonalcoholic brands and dove deep into customer reviews to decide which taste best and closest to the real thing.
Best nonalcoholic drinks of 2025
Photo Gallery 1/1 Best nonalcoholic beer Athletic Brewing Company Pros Tastes like the real thing
Has a gluten-free option
Great for those who enjoy IPAs Cons Gluten-free version lacks carbonation Athletic Brewing Company, a Connecticut-based brewing company that specializes in nonalcoholic craft beer, sent me three selections to try: Run Wild IPA, Free Wave Hazy IPA and Upside Dawn Golden Ale. The brewing company also has its own stout beer and other limited-edition beers. To develop its nonalcoholic beer, Athletic Brewing uses only four ingredients: water, hops, yeast and barley. They also keep the alcohol by volume, or ABV, under 0.5% to meet the qualifications of a nonalcoholic beer. Much to my surprise, the Run Wild IPA and Free Wave Hazy IPA taste exactly like a traditional alcoholic IPA, and have enough carbonation to pass for one, too. The Upside Dawn Golden Ale is the only version of the three that is gluten-free but tastes the least carbonated and slightly darker than I prefer. However, related to Upside Dawn being gluten-free, Athletic Brewing Company notes, "This product is fermented from grains containing gluten and crafted to remove gluten. The gluten content of this product cannot be verified, and this product may contain gluten." I had friends who brew their own beer weigh in on this company's products and they found Athletic to be a solid choice for the best nonalcoholic beer. I would recommend Athletic Brewing Company as a substitution for those who enjoy IPAs but are trying to cut back on their alcohol intake. ... Show more Get it now $14 at Athletic Brewing Specs & Configurations ABV Less than 0.5% Dietary notes Vegan, non-GMO Price range $12-$15 Sizes 6-pack Types tested Run Wild IPA, Free Wave Hazy IPA and Upside Dawn Golden Ale Add to compare
Photo Gallery 1/1 Best nonalcoholic bourbon Free Spirits Pros Great packaging
Realistic smell
Contains B-vitamins and amino acids Cons Preferred the bourbon over the tequila and gin I was impressed by the packaging of Free Spirits because these deceptively look like real bottles of bourbon, tequila or gin. What's even more surprising is how realistic the gin and bourbon smelled upon opening the bottles. The bourbon, my favorite selection of the three, had the flavors and elements of the actual liquor (such as a smooth wood oak-like aroma, combined with vanilla and other spices). Free Spirits follows a process called Distillate Reconstruction, which involves identifying each spirit's unique flavors and raw materials and then distilling those materials into natural extracts and botanicals. The brand also infuses its nonalcoholic spirits with B vitamins and amino acids to help enhance your mood and make the drinks more nutritious. Free Spirits can be served on its own or mixed into your favorite cocktail. ... Show more Get it now $35 at Free Spirits Specs & Configurations ABV Less than 0.5% Dietary notes Vegan, sodium-free, low-calorie, gluten-free, B-vitamins Price range $37 Sizes 750-ml bottle Types tested The Spirit of Bourbon, Spirit of Gin and Spirit of Tequila Add to compare
Photo Gallery 1/1 Best nonalcoholic bitters DRY Botanical Bubbly Reserve Pros Refreshing
Makes both soda and non-alcoholic drinks
Great for mocktails Cons Preferred the Bright/Herbal Botanical Bitters DRY Botanical Bubbly Reserve markets itself as a soda company that also makes nonalcoholic drinks. The sodas come in cans, while the nonalcoholic wines are packaged in standard bottles and are available in pineapple and cranberry flavors. The brand also has nonalcoholic Botanical Bitters (Aromatic, Bright/Herbal, Sweet and Spicy) which can be used in your mocktails. I was able to try the DRY nonalcoholic Botanical Bitters and they were a pleasant surprise. My favorite was the Bright/Herbal flavor, which was refreshing and tasted good on its own. Reviewers are also big fans of the bitters and the Vanilla Bubbly Reserve. Some compare the vanilla nonalcoholic drink to a less sugary version of Coca-Cola. The DRY drinks are decent alternatives to have around that can be mixed with cocktails or enjoyed on their own. ... Show more Get it now $32 at DRY Specs & Configurations ABV 0.0% Dietary notes Zero alcohol, kosher, gluten-free, non-GMO Price range $32-$46 Sizes 4-pack and 12-pack Types tested Botanical Bitters (Aromatic, Bright/Herbal, Sweet and Spicy) Add to compare
Photo Gallery 1/1 Best dark and stormy Lyre's Dark 'N Spicy Premix Drinks Pros Maintains carbonation
Well-balanced flavors
Not too sweet
Refreshing Cons Not for people who dislike dark and stormies If you like dark and stormies, you'll enjoy Lyre's Dark 'N Spicy Premix Drinks. This beverage comes in a red 8-ounce can and maintains its carbonation as you drink it. The well-balanced flavors are a mix of ginger, lime juice, sugar cane and spices. This drink was refreshing and not too sweet and definitely tasted like a real cocktail. ... Show more Get it now $89 at Lyre's Specs & Configurations ABV 0.0% Dietary notes Zero alcohol Price range $89 Sizes 24-pack Types tested Dark 'N Spicy Premix Drinks Add to compare
Photo Gallery 1/1 Best nonalcoholic tequila alternative Almave Blanco Pros Made from real agave, so it tastes natural
No artificial aftertaste
Works great as a tequila substitute for cocktails Cons Not as versatile for sipping neat At my housewarming party, I wanted to have a solid nonalcohlic option that didn't compromise on taste, and Almave Blanco delivered. It's easily one of the most authentic nonalcoholic alternatives I've tested. I used it for margaritas, and my guests (many of whom drink real tequila) were seriously impressed. It has the bright taste you expect from a good tequila, without the burn of alcohol. This nonalcoholic spirit is made from agave, so it doesn't have that artificial, overly sweet taste that some other nonalcoholic spirits do, It's smooth but still has enough depth to hold its own in a cocktail. Whether you're skipping the booze entirely or just pacing yourself, this is a fantastic alternative to keep your cocktails interesting without losing the complexity of a traditional margarita. ... Show more Get it now $36 at Almave Specs & Configurations ABV 0.0% Dietary notes Zero alcohol Price range $32.40 to $36 Sizes Single bottle, pack of two, pack of four and pack of six Types tested Almave Blanco and Almave Ambar Add to compare
Photo Gallery 1/1 Another great nonalcoholic beer Samuel Adams Just the Haze IPA Pros Great flavor
Great for those who don't normally drink beer
Beer drinkers will also enjoy I'm not a big beer drinker, but I've found I enjoy a classic Samuel Adams seasonal beer. I was impressed by Samuel Adams Just the Haze nonalcoholic IPA beer, which was released last year. It took two years in the making to perfect the Sam Adams nonalcoholic IPA recipe. The flavors that make up Just the Haze include a full-bodied brew of citrus such as grapefruit, tangerine and lime, and fruity notes from pineapple, guava, melon and peach. This was one of the best nonalcoholic brews I tried. The Sam Adams Just the Haze is a drink that IPA lovers and those who normally aren't beer drinkers can enjoy alike. The best part is that you don't have to worry about a buzz after a couple of these. ... Show more Get it now $11 at Total Wine & More Specs & Configurations ABV Less than 0.5% Dietary notes Price range $12 Sizes 6-pack Types tested Samuel Adams Just the Haze IPA Add to compare
Photo Gallery 1/1 Best nonalcoholic spirits Three Spirit Pros Great design
Unique flavors
Reviewers love Nightcap Upon looking at the Three Spirit bottles, I was captivated by the design and sleek, bewitching style. These nonalcoholic spirits were developed by plant scientists, bartenders, herbalists and artists, and you can definitely see each influence. The three different spirits available are called Livener, Social Elixir and Nightcap. When I tried them, I couldn't pinpoint what they reminded me of, because I've never tried anything like it. Each is unique in its own way and has different flavor profiles. The Livener is caffeinated and is the most invigorating of the three made up of green tea, guayusa, watermelon and berries. The Social Elixir is a darker, bittersweet blend that consists of passionflower, yerba mate, cacao, molasses and other spices. The Nightcap is intended to mellow you out and has valerian root, Canadian maple syrup and lemon balm, among other herbs. These are best used as mixers to complement other cocktails or can be consumed on their own, over ice. Reviewers appear to favor the Nightcap overall because of its mellow flavor and because it relaxes them -- ideal for winding down at the end of a long day. ... Show more Get it now $39 at Three Spirit Specs & Configurations ABV 0.0% Dietary notes Vegan, active plant ingredients, gluten-free, zero alcohol, no artificial colors or flavors Price range $39-$105 Sizes 1-pack, 2-pack, 3-pack Types tested Livener, Social Elixir and Nightcap Add to compare
Photo Gallery 1/1 Best nonalcoholic red wine Sovi Pros Rosé maintains carbonation
Red blend is realistic Sovi is a Sommelier-owned, nonalcoholic wine company that created its own sparkling rosé and red blend. The red blend is made up of several Spanish and French grape varieties in California. The rosé is dry yet bubbly and maintains the carbonation, which is key to nonalcoholic drinks. The red blend is a dry full-bodied red wine and has hints of cherry, grapefruit and watermelon. These drinks did not arrive in time for me to sample, but reviewers love this wine alternative for both the flavor and realism. One sommelier even relied on these nonalcoholic wines (among other drinks) during her pregnancy. ... Show more Get it now $32 at Sovi Specs & Configurations ABV Less than 0.5% Dietary notes Vegan, non-GMO, gluten-free, no added flavors, low sugar Price range $30-$384 Sizes Cans: 4-, 8-, 12-, 24-pack; Bottle: 1-, 2-, 4-, 6-, 12-pack Types tested N/A, based on reviews Add to compare
Photo Gallery 1/1 Best nonalcoholic blonde ale Partake Brewing Pros Preferred the Blonde ale
Great for people who enjoy light beer Cons Lacks body and carbonation Partake Brewing's nonalcoholic beers are available in IPA, Dark Ale, Blonde Ale, Pale Ale and Red Ale. The beers are made up of 0.3% ABV and depending on the brew, can be as low as 10 calories. I tasted the IPA, Red Ale and Blonde Ale and the three did resemble the alcoholic versions that inspired them, but with less body and carbonation. My favorite was the Blonde ale -- it's ideal for the person who enjoys a light beer but wants a nonalcoholic option without going overboard. ... Show more Get it now $28 at Partake Brewing Specs & Configurations ABV Less than 0.5% Dietary notes Vegan, low-calorie Price range $28-$55 Sizes 12-pack, 24-pack Types tested IPA, Red Ale and Blonde Ale Add to compare
Photo Gallery 1/1 Best nonalcoholic beer and sparkling hops Lagunitas IPNA and Hoppy Refresher Pros Hoppy Refresher is like a sweeter flavored seltzer
Hoppy Refresher is gluten-free
IPNA tastes like traditional IPA Cons Some reviewers dislike the IPNA's taste Lagunitas, best known for its IPAs, has its own line of nonalcoholic beers that are sure to appeal to sober-curious beer lovers, including the Hoppy Refresher and IPNA. The Hoppy Refresher is clear and sparkling and is brewed using citra, equinox and centennial hops, and it tastes fruity. It reminded me of a sweeter yet refreshing flavored seltzer that could be enjoyed on its own or mixed in nonalcoholic cocktails. The IPNA is made up of the same ingredients featured in Lagunitas original IPA. Its ingredients include dry hops, mosaic and citra, and its flavor profile has hints of citrus and pine. It has less than 0.5% ABV and tastes exactly like a traditional IPA -- which means Lagunitas stayed true to its original product but left out most of the alcohol. If you're already a Lagunitas fan, you'll appreciate this nonalcoholic substitution. ... Show more Get it now $12 at Total Wine & More Specs & Configurations ABV Less than 0.5% Dietary notes Hoppy Refresher: zero-alcohol, gluten-free, zero-carb and zero-calorie Price range $9-$12 Sizes 6-pack Types tested Hoppy Refresher and IPNA Add to compare
Photo Gallery 1/1 Best nonalcoholic functional beverage Kin Euphorics Pros Created to help the body function
Describes what the drink is meant to do on the can
Ingredients are easy to understand
Unique tastes you don’t get from other brands
Love Lightwave and Dream Light as nighttime beverages for sleep Cons High Rhode, Actual Sunshine and Kin Spritz drinks contain caffeine, which may not be for some
Picklesecco is a bit too dill-forward for my taste buds Founded in 2017 by Bella Hadid and Jen Batchelor, Kin Euphorics is rooted in Ayurvedic medicine and creates nonalcoholic functional beverages meant to nourish the body and mind. Specifically, the brand incorporates adaptogens (which help the body deal with stress), nootropics (meant to enhance brain function) and botanics (plants that can help the body while improving taste). Kin Euphorics kindly sent me its line of drinks to try, and this has become my new favorite beverage brand. Though I enjoyed all the drinks, out of the canned ones, these are what I'd recommend: Lightwave, which is noncaffeinated, meant to calm you down, and tastes like a lavender-vanilla root beer; the fruity Actual Sunshine, which contains 33 milligrams of caffeine and works to boost both your immunity and complexion (it includes bovine collagen, making it nonvegan); the caffeine-free Kin Bloom, which was created to provide “heart-opening joy” and tastes like a sparkling white grape juice; and Luna Morada, a noncaffeinated drink based on the Latin American Chicha, meant to support your liver and digestion. The latter is beautifully spicy, with prominent pineapple, tamarind and chili flavors. There's also the postbiotic Picklesecco, which I enjoyed in small quantities but which was a bit too dill-forward for me to drink in full. I did think the pickle taste was fun, though. Also, for reference, postbiotics are the waste left behind after your body digests prebiotics and probiotics. Useful postbiotics can help encourage the growth of healthy bacteria and slow the growth of harmful bacteria. Lastly, Kin Spritz, which I personally didn’t love as much as the others taste-wise, contains 50 milligrams of caffeine. As someone who tries to avoid caffeine, I wouldn't drink this one again, but if you need a pick-me-up during the day, I could see you enjoying it. My favorite of the Kin Euphorics made-to-mix drinks was Dream Light, which is noncaffeinated and designed to help you sleep, with reishi mushroom, melatonin and l-tryptophan. I loved mixing this warm-spicy concoction with oat milk and heating it up before bed. For nonalcoholic happy hours, there's High Rhode, which contains 50 milligrams of caffeine per serving, Rhodiola rosea (for energy, per the brand), 5-HTP (for joy) and GABA (for easing stress). It has a pleasant citrus taste that works well when added to sparkling water and fruit juice (I used apple). Available for preorder is Matchatini, which I haven't tried yet. ... Show more Get it now $39 at Kin Euphorics Specs & Configurations ABV 0% Dietary notes gluten-free; non-alcoholic; contains adaptogens, nootropics and botanicals; all drinks are vegan except for Actual Sunshine, which contains bovine collagen and D3 of sheep’s wool; some drinks are caffeine-free Price range $39 for an 8-pack of 237-mL cans; $39 for a one-pack of the 44-mL made-to-mix drinks; around $4 for a single can at local stores Sizes single can, 8-pack, 12-pack and 24-pack of 237-mL cans; 1-pack, 2-pack and 3-pack of 44-mL made-to-mix drinks Types tested Lightwave, Actual Sunshine, Kin Spritz, Kin Bloom, Picklesecco, Luna Morada, Dream Light, High Rhode Add to compare
Photo Gallery 1/1 Best nonalcoholic paloma Recess Zero Proof Pros Paloma has a crisp grapefruit flavor
Island spritz is beautifully coconut-y
Contains ingredients meant to boost mood and calm you down
Low-calorie
Low-sugar Cons May not be for those who dislike more robust flavors
Not for those who dislike sparkling drinks In 2017, Recess was launched to provide drinks designed to make you feel calm. In addition to Recess, the brand’s hemp and adaptogen drink, there are also the magnesium and adaptogen Recess Mood, alcohol-free Recess Zero Proof and Recess Mood Powder lines. For testing, Recess sent me its Recess Zero Proof cosmo, island spritz, lime margarita and grapefruit paloma. I genuinely enjoyed all of these drinks, but my favorites were the Zero Proof paloma and island spritz. The Recess Zero Proof paloma has a perfectly intense grapefruit flavor mixed with a welcome amount of fizz. It is made with red rio grapefruit juice, uplifting guayusa (a holly tree with leaves believed to have mood-boosting, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits) and balancing adaptogens. If you love a refreshing paloma, then you will probably enjoy this nonalcoholic version. As for the island spritz, it also contains guayusa and balancing adaptogens, but has a pineapple-coconut flavor that is super tasty. I especially love how coconut-y the drink is and how it’s balanced out with the more fruity pineapple. ... Show more Get it now $45 at Recess Specs & Configurations ABV 0% Dietary notes Low-calorie, low-sugar, contains adaptogens and other mood-boosting ingredients Price range $45 for 12-pack, $30 for variety 8-pack, less than $5 for single can (in-store) Sizes 8-pack, 12-pack, single 355-mL can (in-store) Types tested Zero Proof cosmo, island spritz, lime margarita and grapefruit paloma; Mood strawberry rose, blood orange, peach ginger and black cherry Add to compare
Photo Gallery 1/1 Best nonalcoholic whiskey Ritual Zero Proof Pros Whiskey alternative is beautifully smokey
Rum alternative has a unique flavor that adds depth
Tequila alternative is perfect in fruity drinks
Bottles have a thoughtful design Cons Not for people who are looking to consume these beverages on their own
Whiskey alternative does not taste as good in fruity drinks, in my opinion
For those who prefer less smoke in their whiskey, this alternative may not be for them Ritual Zero Proof was launched in 2019 to provide zero-proof spirits that are low- or no-calorie, low-sugar, gluten-free and contain all-natural flavors. The line now includes nonalcoholic tequila, rum, whiskey, gin and aperitif alternatives, all of which Ritual Zero Proof kindly gifted me to try. It’s important to note that these drinks are meant to be enjoyed in mocktails and not alone. Of all five spirits I tried, my favorites were the whiskey, rum and tequila alternatives. The nonalcoholic whiskey is reminiscent of actual whiskey with its vanilla, oak, smoke, caramel and toasted spice inclusions. It was great in a nonalcoholic whiskey and cola, but I wouldn’t recommend it with fruity drinks because of its smoky flavor (unless you enjoy a smoky, fruity drink). The rum was a blend of flavors, including vanilla, ripe banana, bitter orange, star anise, fresh ginger and charred apricot. It was also great in zero-proof rum and cola. I especially enjoyed the citrus and fruit tang. The tequila alternative paired well with fruitier beverage additions (such as Olipop’s orange squeeze), as it contains ingredients such as blue agave flower, Mexican lime and tropical guava. These flavors pair beautifully with the rum alternative’s charred oak, mesquite smoke, prickly ash and green bell pepper. You can taste the drink’s flavors in all their complexity, which creates a thoughtful beverage. Aside from the taste, I also love the look of these bottles. Each has a sturdy wood cork, helpful labeling with all the ingredients and a beautiful glass shape. Plus, the drinks each have their own color -- for instance, rum is orange while tequila is blue -- which I found to be a nice touch. ... Show more Get it now $30 at Ritual Zero Proof Specs & Configurations ABV 0% Dietary notes No- and low-calorie, all-natural flavors, low-sugar, gluten-free, diet-friendly, non-GMO Price range $30 for one 750-mL bottle, $132 for bundle of all five Sizes 750-mL bottles Types tested Whiskey, rum, gin, aperitif and tequila alternatives Add to compare
Photo Gallery 1/1 Best nonalcoholic Cuba libre Free AF Pros Cuba libre has a great flavor
Apero spritz is realistic
Afterglow formula provides a sparkling warmth similar to actual alcohol Cons Paloma may not be for those who prefer a more intense grapefruit flavor
Afterglow creates a tickling sensation in the nose Lisa King created Free AF in 2020 to help those who are sober-curious explore a different relationship with alcohol. Low in sugar and calories and containing natural flavors, Free AF’s cocktails contain the brand’s “Afterglow,” a 100% natural botanical extract that mimics the warmth of alcohol (without the alcohol, of course). For the purposes of testing, Free AF sent me its paloma, Cuba libre, "vod%a" spritz and apero spritz. While I enjoyed them all, the Cuba libra was my favorite. A Cuba libre is a rum and cola drink, and Free AF captured this perfectly in its nonalcoholic version, which contains lime extract, giving the drink a welcome citrus flair. In all of its drinks, I found that the brand’s Afterglow produced a sparkling, warm sensation that mimics alcohol. However, it did create a tickling sensation in my nose, but this went away after a minute or so. In addition to the Cuba libre, the nonalcoholic paloma was a great recreation perfect for those who prefer a more subtle grapefruit flavor. I also loved the passion fruit and lime flavor of the vod%a spritz. While I am not a fan of Aperol spritzes, I did find Free AF’s to be the most realistic nonalcoholic version I’ve tried thus far. ... Show more Get it now $43 at Amazon Specs & Configurations ABV Less than 0.5% Dietary notes Low-sugar, low-calorie, gluten-free, contains natural flavors Price range $39 for 12-pack, $24 for variety 6-pack Sizes 6-pack and 12-pack of 250-mL cans Types tested Paloma, Cuba libre, vod%a spritz and apero spritz Add to compare
Photo Gallery 1/1 Best nonalcoholic aperitif Ghia Pros Le Fizz has a delightfully sweet flavor
Le Fizz’s strawberry and orange blossom pair nicely together
Love the large bottle
Love the sparkling texture Cons Le Fizz may not be for those who prefer more bitter aperitifs
Not for those who dislike sparkling beverages Known for its spirits-free aperitif, Ghia was created in 2020 by Melanie Masarin. Following its original nonalcoholic aperitif, Ghia has since released nonalcoholic berry, lime and salt, ginger, sumac and chili and soda aperitifs in both can and bottle formats. These are all alcohol-free, vegan and gluten-free with no artificial flavors or added sugars. The brand recently released its strawberry and orange blossom Le Fizz, which it sent me to try. Although I’m not typically a fan of aperitifs because of their bitterness, I enjoyed this sweet, bubbly version. The strawberry and orange blossom pair well together to offset the tartness of the aperitif itself. However, if you do not have a sweet tooth and would prefer a more bitter drink, then you will likely enjoy all of Ghia’s other flavors. Out of the rest of its line, I’ve only had the sumac and chili, which was too bitter and spicy for my personal taste. ... Show more Get it now $40 at Ghia Specs & Configurations ABV 0% Dietary notes Vegan, gluten-free, no added sugars, no artificial flavors Price range $40 for two 750-mL bottles, $108 for six 750-mL bottles Sizes 2-pack and 6-pack 750-mL bottles Types tested Le Fizz Add to compare
Benefits of cutting out alcohol According to WebMD, cutting out alcohol can include the following benefits: Reduce your risk of fatalities: The National Highway Safety Traffic Administration states that 32% of all traffic crash fatalities in the United States involve drunk drivers. The National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism adds that 178,000 deaths each year are attributable to excessive alcohol use. Repair your liver: Heavy drinking can lead to types of liver disease such as cirrhosis (or scarring) of the liver, alcoholic hepatitis and a fatty liver. When you stop drinking, you give the liver the opportunity to repair itself. Weight loss: If you are trying to lose weight, consider giving up alcohol, which is high in calories and can be high in sugar. When your body is metabolizing alcohol, it also stops metabolizing fat, which can put a halt on weightloss entirely. Improve your sleep: Drinking large amounts of alcohol before bed can disrupt your sleep and cause poor sleep quality. Reduce cancer risk: Alcohol is a human carcinogen, according to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, which states, "Consumption of alcoholic beverages has been shown to cause cancer of the mouth, pharynx, larynx and esophagus." Improve heart health: Drinking alcohol in excess can increase your risk for cardiovascular disease. According to the U.S. Dietary Guidelines, it is recommended that women have one drink or less in a day. As for men, it is recommended that they have two drinks or less in a day.