The “Dry January” Challenge originally traced back to the UK Alcohol Exchange’s awareness campaign. Dry January began in 2012 to address the dangers of alcohol and addictive behavior. In the beginning 4000 struggled, today in January there are millions who have sworn to alcohol either for a good cause or for themselves.
What is “Dry Stove”?
In January, “Dry January” – also known as “Drynuary” – is regularly encountered on social media. Blick wine expert Shirley Amberg explains what it’s all about.
What happens to the body when you stop drinking alcohol?
In a study of the benefits of short-term abstinence, researchers confirm that even one month of abstinence can make a big difference. The following health changes have been observed in people who normally drink moderate to heavy:
- Participants lost an average of two pounds
- Blood pressure dropped five percent after one month
- Diabetes risk increased by 30 percent
- immune system strengthened
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The liver was able to recover
It is unclear how long the benefits will last.
The research results have one caveat: they can’t say for sure what the long-term effects of this trial are, especially if you’re drinking the same amount after you stop drinking as before.
Participants who already drink a lot of alcohol will not notice the benefits to the same extent. What’s more, it’s hard to say whether people actually feel better after the Challenge simply because they quit drinking. In January, people tend to pay more attention to their health, such as eating healthier and exercising.
Health experts recommend keeping alcohol consumption to a minimum even after the “Dry January”, as abstinence from alcohol gives the body a brief relief.
Changing consumer behavior
While the long-term health benefits are unclear, a month may be enough to make a lasting change in drinking behavior. The study shows that the proportion of people who drink unsafe before fasting drops by nearly 50 percent six to eight months after Dry January.
While researchers suspect that this short alcohol break may stimulate thinking and influence drinking behavior in the long run, this study is not enough to confirm this definitively. Also, after a month of “detox”, participants may feel they have done enough good for their bodies and are back to old patterns.
Identify the problem and get help
Therefore, it is important that alcohol consumption remains an issue after the challenge. “The Dry Hearth” offers an opportunity to question its relationship with alcohol in detail, thereby tackling addictive behaviors and finding alternatives.
If you notice a lack of alcohol in everyday life, this may be a sign of addictive behavior – in this case it is recommended to seek professional help. (chj)
Do you agree with Dry January?
Or have you already quit alcohol during January and have good tips for others? Share your experiences with us here. More information on that here.