Dry January improves mental wellbeing

Dry Cooking can improve one’s mental health.

Experts at Brown University in the US have found that taking a short break from alcohol can improve mood, sleep and health, even if a person does not abstain for the entire month.

Boffins conducted a comprehensive review of 16 studies involving 150,000 participants on the effects of Dry January, when people cut out alcohol in the first month of the year.

Those who stopped drinking for the entire month reported improved sleep quality, improved mood, and healthier liver function and blood pressure.

They were also more likely to lose weight, could concentrate better, and had more energy than before.

Even those who did not quit drinking completely during January drank less afterward and reported feeling better because of it.

Despite this, a small number of people who failed to complete the challenge reported drinking more afterwards as a ‘rebound effect’.

The lead author of the study, Dr. Megan Strowger said: “This effort leads to sustainable moderation.

“Overall, participating in Dry January allows people to pause, reflect and rethink their relationship with alcohol, including how it affects their social life, mental health and physical health.”

Professor Suzanne Colby, who was part of the team that conducted the research, added: “There is now much more support for living an alcohol-free lifestyle.

“Being ‘sober curious’ or abstinent from alcohol is more socially acceptable than ever.

“Social norms have changed, helped in part by influencers on social media who share the benefits of sobriety and reduce the stigma of not drinking.”