Less booze, more benefits: The dry January effect

People drink a lot during the holidays, which can be very stressful not only for the body, but also for the psyche. Many people try to compensate for their excessive alcohol consumption by taking part in a "dry January" and going cold turkey from alcohol. A 2018 study found that regular drinkers who abstained from alcohol for 30 days experienced improved sleep and lower cholesterol levels. Another study by the University of Sussex in 2019 found that 90% of participants saved money and more than half lost weight. Research has also shown that in the six months following 'dry January', people drank less and not as frequently as before abstinence. Alcohol Change UK advises those who are dependent on alcohol not to go cold turkey as this can lead to alcohol withdrawal syndrome.