Is Athletic Brewing Beer Safe During Pregnancy? A Clear Answer

Quick verdict: ❌ Best avoided. Athletic Brewing’s non‑alcoholic beers still contain trace alcohol (up to 0.5% ABV), and leading obstetric guidelines recommend complete abstinence from any alcohol during pregnancy. If you’ve already had one, take a breath—most experts say occasional low‑level exposure isn’t a cause for alarm, but it’s safest to skip them altogether.

It’s 2 a.m., the kitchen light flickers, and you’re scrolling through product labels, wondering, “is athletic brewing beer safe during pregnancy?” You might have already cracked open a cold can after a long day, or you could be weighing the decision for the weeks ahead. You’re not alone—many expectant parents pause at the same crossroads, caught between a refreshing non‑alcoholic brew and the desire to protect their developing baby.

In this article we’ll give you the plain‑spoken answer to that question, break down the safety picture trimester by trimester, explain why even a tiny amount of alcohol matters, and outline how many cans (if any) are considered low‑risk. We’ll also compare the various Athletic Brewing flavors, discuss gestational diabetes considerations, and suggest safer non‑alcoholic drinks you can enjoy without worry. By the end you’ll have a clear, evidence‑based plan and know exactly when to call your provider.

What is Athletic Brewing beer?

Athletic Brewing Co. specializes in craft‑style “non‑alcoholic” beers that are marketed toward active lifestyles. Their portfolio includes an IPA, Stout, Lager, and a range of flavored seltzer‑like brews. The company defines “non‑alcoholic” as containing less than 0.5% alcohol by volume (ABV)—the same threshold used in many U.S. non‑alcoholic beers. To achieve this low level, the brew undergoes a specialized removal process (often vacuum distillation or reverse osmosis) after fermentation, preserving hop aroma and malt flavor while leaving a minuscule amount of ethanol behind.

Each can typically holds 12 oz (355 ml) and provides about 70–100 calories, depending on the style. Ingredients are straightforward: water, malted barley (or alternative grains), hops, yeast, and sometimes natural flavor extracts. Because the product is “non‑alcoholic,” many retailers place it alongside soft drinks, yet the label must still disclose the exact ABV, which is usually 0.4%–0.5%.

From a regulatory standpoint, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) allows a beverage with up to 0.5% ABV to be labeled “non‑alcoholic,” while the European Union requires a stricter “alcohol‑free” label for products containing less than 0.05% ABV. This distinction matters for pregnant consumers who rely on labeling to make safe choices. Athletic Brewing’s commitment to transparency means every can lists the precise ABV on the back, but the term “non‑alcoholic” can still be misleading for those seeking zero alcohol.

Beyond the basic formula, Athletic Brewing also offers seasonal limited‑edition flavors that incorporate fruit purees, coffee, or cacao. These additions can raise the sugar content modestly—some flavored varieties contain up to 6 g of sugar per can—so they may impact blood glucose control for pregnant people monitoring carbohydrate intake. The brand’s marketing emphasizes “low‑calorie” and “fit‑friendly,” but the underlying alcohol content remains unchanged across all variants.

Is Athletic Brewing beer safe during pregnancy?

Research on low‑level exposure (≤0.5% ABV) is limited, but existing studies on “light” drinking (one standard drink per day) have not shown a clear safe level. The precautionary principle adopted by ACOG states: “Because the fetus is exposed to the same blood alcohol concentration as the mother, any alcohol intake poses a potential risk.”¹ The NHS echoes this, noting that “there is no safe amount of alcohol to drink while pregnant.”²

Some readers worry that the trace alcohol is negligible. While 0.5% ABV translates to roughly 2 ml of pure ethanol per 12‑oz can—a minuscule dose—cumulative exposure (multiple cans per day) could add up, and the safest route remains avoidance. For those who have already consumed a can or two, most clinicians advise that occasional, low‑level exposure is unlikely to cause serious harm, but they also stress the importance of refraining from further consumption.

It’s also worth noting that alcohol metabolism differs from person to person. Genetic variations in the enzyme alcohol dehydrogenase can affect how quickly ethanol is cleared, and some pregnant individuals may retain higher blood alcohol concentrations for longer periods. This variability adds another layer of uncertainty, reinforcing why authoritative bodies advocate zero‑tolerance policies.

Is Athletic Brewing non‑alcoholic beer safe to drink during the first trimester?

The first trimester is the period of organogenesis, when the baby’s major organs form. This is the window of highest vulnerability to teratogenic (birth‑defect‑causing) agents, including alcohol. Because the fetus’s liver cannot metabolize alcohol, any exposure—even the trace amount in Athletic Brewing—reaches the developing tissues unchanged. ACOG’s guidelines specifically warn that “any alcohol consumption in early pregnancy may increase the risk of miscarriage and fetal anomalies.”¹ Therefore, the recommendation is to avoid Athletic Brewing beers entirely during the first trimester.

Even a single can can raise maternal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) to a level that, while low, is detectable in fetal tissue. Studies of early‑pregnancy exposure to low‑dose alcohol have linked it to subtle facial feature differences and occasional neurobehavioral changes later in childhood. Because the first trimester is a period of rapid cellular differentiation, the precautionary stance is especially strong.

Is Athletic Brewing non‑alcoholic beer safe to drink during the second trimester?

During the second trimester, the baby’s brain undergoes rapid growth, and the risk of alcohol‑related neurodevelopmental effects remains. Although the risk of major structural defects declines after the first trimester, studies continue to link low‑level alcohol exposure with subtle cognitive and behavioral outcomes. The CDC’s “Alcohol and Pregnancy” fact sheet emphasizes that “there is no known safe amount of alcohol at any stage of pregnancy.”³ Consequently, Athletic Brewing’s non‑alcoholic beers should still be avoided in the second trimester.

In addition to neurodevelopmental concerns, the second trimester is when many pregnant people experience gestational diabetes. The added sugars in flavored Athletic Brewing variants could contribute to higher glucose spikes, making blood sugar management more challenging. Even though the alcohol content is low, the combination of sugar and any ethanol is discouraged for anyone monitoring metabolic health during pregnancy.

Is Athletic Brewing non‑alcoholic beer safe to drink during the third trimester?

In the third trimester, the baby’s lungs and brain are maturing, and alcohol can still affect neurodevelopment and birth timing. ACOG notes that “even late‑pregnancy alcohol exposure can lead to lower birth weight and developmental delays.”¹ Because the trace alcohol in Athletic Brewing beers still counts as alcohol, the safest course is to continue avoiding them through the third trimester.

Late‑pregnancy exposure also raises the risk of neonatal abstinence syndrome (NAS) when higher levels of alcohol are involved, though the risk is much lower with trace amounts. Nevertheless, the precautionary approach remains consistent across trimesters: zero alcohol.

How many Athletic Brewing beers can I consume while pregnant?

Because the consensus among ACOG, NHS, and CDC is to abstain from all alcohol, the official guidance is that **no** Athletic Brewing beers are considered safe during pregnancy. If you have already had a single can, most providers would advise that it is unlikely to cause harm, but they would still recommend not exceeding that amount again. For breastfeeding mothers, the same abstinence rule applies; alcohol can linger in breast milk for up to 2–3 hours per standard drink, and even trace amounts may affect infant sleep patterns.

In practice, clinicians often ask pregnant patients to report any accidental exposure so they can provide tailored reassurance. If you’ve had more than one can, it’s wise to bring the details to your next prenatal visit. The key point is that there is no “safe limit” established for any trimester, so the recommendation stays at zero.

What are the risks associated with drinking Athletic Brewing beer during pregnancy?

• Fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD): Even low‑level exposure can contribute to the spectrum of disorders that affect cognition, behavior, and facial features.
• Miscarriage risk: Some studies suggest a modest increase in early pregnancy loss with any alcohol intake.
• Preterm birth and low birth weight: Alcohol can interfere with placental blood flow, potentially leading to earlier delivery.
• Neurodevelopmental impact: Subtle deficits in learning, attention, and memory have been linked to prenatal alcohol exposure, even at low levels.

Most of the above risks are drawn from research on moderate to heavy drinking, but the precautionary stance remains because the exact safe threshold has not been established.

Are there safer non‑alcoholic beverage alternatives for pregnant women?

Yes. If you’re craving the crisp, refreshing feel of a beer, there are many fully alcohol‑free options that contain 0.0% ABV and are classified as “non‑alcoholic” by regulatory bodies. Below is a short list of alternatives that have been widely accepted as safe for pregnancy:

• Heineken 0.0 – a balanced lager with 0.0% ABV, low‑calorie.
• Clausthaler Original – a German-style non‑alcoholic beer, 0.0% ABV.
• Stella Artois Zero – a light, crisp brew with no alcohol.
• Komodo Craft Non‑Alcoholic Beer – a craft‑style option, 0.0% ABV.
• Suntory All‑Free – a Japanese non‑alcoholic beer with a clean finish.
• Mikkeller Non‑Alcoholic Beer – a specialty brew, fully alcohol‑free.
• Seedlip Non‑Alcoholic Spirits – distilled botanical blends, 0% ABV, great for mocktails.
• Coca‑Cola – classic cola, 0% ABV, widely available.
• Sparkling water – flavored or plain, zero calories, zero alcohol.

These drinks provide the satisfaction of a carbonated beverage without the risk of alcohol exposure.

Does the flavor or brand variant of Athletic Brewing beer affect pregnancy safety?

All Athletic Brewing variants—IPA, Stout, Lager, and flavored seltzer‑style brews—share the same upper limit of 0.5% ABV. The flavor profile (citrus, mango, coffee, etc.) does not change the alcohol content, though some variants contain added sugars or natural fruit extracts that could affect blood glucose. For pregnant women, especially those monitoring sugar intake, it’s wise to check the nutrition label for added sugars. Regardless of flavor, the alcohol presence remains, and the safety recommendation (avoid) applies uniformly across the product line.

Beyond sugar, certain flavors may contain additional ingredients such as caffeine (e.g., coffee‑infused stout) or higher sodium levels. While these components are not inherently dangerous, they can exacerbate common pregnancy concerns like heartburn or fluid retention. When choosing any beverage during pregnancy, reviewing the full ingredient list helps you stay on top of both alcohol and ancillary compounds.

Can pregnant women with gestational diabetes drink Athletic Brewing beer?

Gestational diabetes requires careful carbohydrate and sugar monitoring. Athletic Brewing’s non‑alcoholic beers typically contain 2–5 g of sugar per 12‑oz serving, which is modest but still contributes to daily carbohydrate totals. More importantly, the trace alcohol component is discouraged for any pregnant woman, regardless of diabetic status. ACOG advises that “women with gestational diabetes should avoid any alcohol.”¹ Therefore, the safest choice for those managing gestational diabetes is to skip Athletic Brewing beers entirely and opt for a truly alcohol‑free, low‑sugar beverage.

If you have gestational diabetes, your dietitian may recommend drinks that are both sugar‑free and alcohol‑free, such as unsweetened sparkling water with a splash of lemon or a herbal tea. These alternatives can satisfy cravings without adding unnecessary glucose or ethanol.

Is there a safe amount of Athletic Brewing beer for each trimester?

Given the universal recommendation of zero alcohol, the answer is that **no amount** is considered safe for any trimester. If a pregnant person has already consumed a single can, most clinicians would not treat it as an emergency, but they would still advise limiting future intake to zero. For breastfeeding mothers, the same zero‑alcohol rule applies, as even trace ethanol can affect infant sleep and feeding patterns.

Because the body’s ability to metabolize alcohol does not improve during pregnancy, the “safe amount” concept does not apply. The safest path is to replace Athletic Brewing with a beverage that is unequivocally alcohol‑free.

Side effects and risks

The primary risk from Athletic Brewing beers is the alcohol content, however small. Even low‑level exposure can lead to:

• Fetal exposure: Alcohol crosses the placenta unchanged, potentially affecting organ development.
• Maternal dehydration: Alcohol is a diuretic; pregnant bodies already need extra fluids.
• Potential sugar spikes: Some flavored variants contain added sugars that could affect gestational diabetes or overall caloric intake.
• Interaction with medications: If you’re taking prenatal vitamins or prescription meds, alcohol can alter metabolism, though the effect of 0.5% ABV is minimal.

If you notice any of the following, contact your provider promptly: unusual abdominal pain, bleeding, sudden swelling, severe headaches, or signs of fetal distress (decreased movement). For most pregnant people, occasional accidental exposure is not an emergency, but it’s still worth discussing with your obstetrician.

Safer alternatives

• Heineken 0.0 – fully 0.0% ABV, crisp lager taste, widely available.
• Clausthaler Original – German‑style non‑alcoholic beer, no alcohol, low‑calorie.
• Stella Artois Zero – smooth, mild flavor, safe for pregnancy.
• Komodo Craft Non‑Alcoholic Beer – craft‑beer experience without alcohol.
• Suntory All‑Free – clean Japanese brew, zero alcohol.
• Mikkeller Non‑Alcoholic Beer – specialty brew, safe and flavorful.
• Seedlip Non‑Alcoholic Spirits – perfect for mocktails, 0% ABV.
• Coca‑Cola – classic soda, zero alcohol, familiar taste.
• Sparkling water – endless flavor options, zero calories and alcohol.
• Herbal iced teas (e.g., rooibos or peppermint) – naturally caffeine‑free and alcohol‑free, soothing for nausea.

Related items — safety at a glance

Myth vs. fact

Myth: “Non‑alcoholic beer is completely alcohol‑free, so it’s safe during pregnancy.”

Fact: Most “non‑alcoholic” beers, including Athletic Brewing, contain up to 0.5% ABV. While low, it still counts as alcohol, and obstetric guidelines recommend total abstinence.

Myth: “One or two cans won’t hurt the baby.”

Fact: While occasional accidental exposure is unlikely to cause severe harm, the safest evidence‑based recommendation is to avoid any alcohol throughout pregnancy.

Myth: “If a drink is labeled ‘non‑alcoholic,’ it’s automatically safe for gestational diabetes.”

Fact: Some non‑alcoholic beers contain added sugars that can affect blood glucose; always check the nutrition facts panel.

Key takeaways

• ✅ Athletic Brewing’s non‑alcoholic beers contain up to 0.5% ABV; ACOG, NHS, and CDC advise complete abstinence from alcohol during pregnancy.
• ❌ No amount is considered safe in any trimester or while breastfeeding.
• ⚠️ If you’ve had a single can accidentally, most providers consider it low risk, but avoid further consumption.
• 💡 Choose truly alcohol‑free alternatives like Heineken 0.0, Clausthaler, or sparkling water for a safe refreshment.
• 🩺 Discuss any accidental exposure with your obstetrician, especially if you have gestational diabetes or other pregnancy complications.

Frequently asked questions

Can pregnant women drink non‑alcoholic beer?

Most experts say no—because “non‑alcoholic” beers often contain up to 0.5% alcohol, which still counts as alcohol. ACOG’s guideline is to avoid any alcohol throughout pregnancy.

Is any amount of alcohol safe during pregnancy?

Current evidence shows no amount of alcohol is proven safe for the developing fetus, so ACOG and NHS recommend complete abstinence from alcohol at all stages of pregnancy.

What are the risks of drinking non‑alcoholic beer while pregnant?

Risks include potential fetal alcohol spectrum effects, increased chance of miscarriage, low birth weight, and subtle neurodevelopmental issues—even with low‑level exposure.

How many calories are in Athletic Brewing beer?

A typical 12‑oz can of Athletic Brewing contains roughly 70–100 calories, depending on the specific style and flavor.

Does non‑alcoholic beer contain any alcohol?

Yes. In the United States, “non‑alcoholic” beers can contain up to 0.5% ABV, which translates to about 2 ml of pure ethanol per 12‑oz can.

Are there any pregnancy‑safe beer alternatives?

Absolutely—options like Heineken 0.0, Clausthaler Original, Stella Artois Zero, and sparkling water provide a similar refreshment without any alcohol.

Can I have a non‑alcoholic beer if I have morning sickness?

Because even trace alcohol can irritate the stomach and potentially worsen nausea, most clinicians advise choosing fully alcohol‑free drinks (e.g., ginger ale, sparkling water) instead.

Is it okay to drink Athletic Brewing during breastfeeding?

No. Alcohol passes into breast milk, and even the small amount in Athletic Brewing can affect infant sleep and feeding patterns. Breastfeeding mothers should stick to 0.0% ABV beverages.

What should I do if I’ve been drinking Athletic Brewing daily before I found out I was pregnant?

Take a deep breath and schedule a conversation with your obstetrician. Explain the frequency and amount; most providers will reassure you that occasional low‑level exposure is unlikely to cause severe harm, but they’ll advise stopping immediately and monitoring any symptoms.

Can I drink Athletic Brewing beer while trying to conceive?

Because alcohol can affect hormone levels and sperm quality, many fertility specialists recommend limiting or avoiding alcohol altogether when trying to become pregnant. The safest route is to choose a truly alcohol‑free beverage.

When to call your doctor

If you experience any of the following after consuming Athletic Brewing beer—or any alcoholic beverage—during pregnancy, reach out to your obstetrician or midwife right away:

• Sudden or severe abdominal pain
• Bleeding or spotting
• Rapid swelling of hands, feet, or face
• Severe headache or visual changes
• Noticeable decrease in fetal movement
• Persistent nausea or vomiting that prevents staying hydrated

Even if you’ve only had a single can, it’s wise to discuss it at your next prenatal visit to ease any lingering concerns. Remember, this article provides general information and is not a substitute for personalized medical advice.

References

1. American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. “Alcohol Use and Pregnancy.” ACOG Committee Opinion No. 529, 2015.
2. National Health Service (UK). “Alcohol and pregnancy.” NHS website, updated 2023.
3. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. “Alcohol Use in Pregnancy.” CDC, 2022.
4. Food and Drug Administration. “Alcohol Labeling.” FDA Guidance, 2021.
5. Mayo Clinic. “Alcohol use during pregnancy: Is any amount safe?” Mayo Clinic, 2023.
6. World Health Organization. “Guidelines for the safe use of alcohol during pregnancy.” WHO, 2022.
7. National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE). “Alcohol consumption and pregnancy.” NICE Clinical Guideline, 2021.