More people are opting to drink in moderation and are taking more notice of how much and why they drink, according to a new poll.
The poll of 2,000 people found that more than half (57%) now consume non-alcoholic drinks as well as alcoholic beverages at social events, in a bid to “do things by half”.
The reasons for doing so include improving relationships, better health and to save money, as well as aiming for a more balanced lifestyle.
- Healthy eating, low alcohol intake and reduced sun exposure can combat cancer, evidence suggests
- Binge drinking in youth linked to changes in gut microbiome
The poll, which commissioned by Harrogate Spring Water, revealed that prior to the last 12 months, 27% of respondents had never been to a social event without drinking.
The results show 61% are now more likely to drink in moderation, with 20% driven to adopt this approach at events this summer.
Bringing more moderation to their lives was given as one reason by 44% of respondents, while 43% see it as a type of self-care. Remembering life’s moments was another reason given by 14%.
The water brand’s managing director, Richard Hall, said: “Our survey clearly shows adults of today are becoming more mindful in their drinking habits.
“Trying to intersperse alcoholic drinks with water or soft drinks is a great way to do this.”
The poll also revealed that just over a third have reduced how much they drink over the last year, with 34% saying their health and wellbeing had got better as a result of this change.
In addition, 21% of respondents said they just don’t enjoy alcohol anymore.
- Study finds getting 8,200 steps a day reduces risk of high blood pressure, sleep apnoea and depression
- Drinking 2 litres of water a day could be a myth, according to new research
Harrogate Spring Water is running a Mindful Drinking Bar at Royal Ascot this year, urging racegoers to “do things by halves, one sip at a time”.
Richard Hall said: “Our Mindful Drinking Bar is back at Royal Ascot for the second year running.
“We are pleased to be able to support people to socialise and enjoy the moment whilst reducing their alcohol intake, which we know is often much easier said than done.
“We want to show racegoers that drinking life in and enjoying the moment by doing things by halves really can help make life’s moments more memorable.”
