Dry January is a popular New Year’s resolution for many Brits aiming to detox after the festive season’s indulgence in mulled wine and eggnog. However, health experts from Universal Drugstore have revealed that going sober for the first month of the year can have more health benefits than you might think.
One of the most noticeable effects is an improvement in liver health. Without the constant strain of processing alcohol, your risk of liver damage or disease decreases. Given that the liver is the only internal organ capable of regeneration, this break could potentially reverse any existing damage.
Abstaining from alcohol can also help avoid a range of serious health issues, from heart conditions to cancers and mental health problems, all linked to drinking. While Dry January won’t cure these existing problems, it can reduce your risk of developing them and aid in recovery.
Another advantage, according to the experts, is that people are likely to experience better, more restful sleep and improved hydration early on in Dry January, as alcohol disrupts both these processes. Plus, those already working on their New Year’s weight loss resolutions may find joining Dry January beneficial.
This is largely because alcoholic drinks, especially heavy beers and sweet cocktails, are surprisingly high in calories. So, giving them a miss could be a simple way to kickstart your weight loss journey, reports Surrey Live.
However, Doctor Jamie Winn cautioned that while Dry January has numerous health benefits, these will also depend on your other lifestyle choices. He advised those with a particular dependency on alcohol to seek an easier route to overcome their addiction.
“Quitting alcohol ‘cold turkey’ is also not advised for those who may be suffering from alcohol dependency,” he said. “This can lead to withdrawal symptoms, health complications, and psychological distress. In these cases, alcohol reduction should take place gradually under medical care. If you’re concerned about your alcohol consumption’s impact on your health, seek personalized advice from a healthcare professional who can guide you through your options.”