Photo by Ruud de Peijper
Dry January actually began as a public health initiative in the UK in 2012. Dry January challenge means no alcohol for the month of January and more people have taken it on over the years. More Americans report drinking more alcoholic drinks since the start of the pandemic for a variety of reasons.
Even abstaining from alcohol for a short duration will have health benefits.
- Improve sleep
- Lowers triglycerides
- Improves metabolism
- Contributes to weight loss
- Improves immune function
- Decreases cancer related growth factors
- Improves insulin resistance
- Improve blood pressure
- Skin will look better
- Improves mood
Some things you can do to make sure you complete the challenge:
- Keep alcohol away from your sight
- Try a substitute drink
- Have a buddy who is also in for the challenge to keep you on track
- Remember, if you lapse for a day, start it up again the next day.
For all of those that have tackled on “Dry January”, keep on with it, you are also getting in those health benefits. More than anything, this will give you a glimpse into your drinking pattern and how much self control you have.