Do you know the benefits of going alcohol-free for a month?
Now that the boozy festive season is over many people will have entered the new year feeling like they have drank a bit too much or a bit too often. If you are ready for a detox, January is the perfect time for it as Alcohol Change’s campaign Dry January is the UK’s one-month booze free challenge!
It takes only three weeks to break a habit, so Dry January could be the kickstart to a healthier lifestyle and better relationship with alcohol in 2019!So, why should you embark on the challenge of Dry January?
1. Reducing your alcohol intake will improve your health.
Drinking alcohol can increase your risk of high blood pressure, high cholesterol, heart disease, stroke, liver problems and cancer. It is the biggest cause of death in people aged 15-49 years in the UK and cutting back on alcohol can reduce your risk of developing these conditions. One month of going alcohol free can decrease blood pressure by around 5% and improve diabetes risk by almost 30%.
In the short-term, drinking less alcohol can also improve your skin and complexion.It has long-term benefits too! Abstinence over the month of January may help people to feel in control and more confident about managing their alcohol intake, making it easier to moderate drinking all year round, improving your overall health.
2. Sleep better and have more energy.
Many people who take part in Dry January experience better sleep, which can help you to feel more energised! Having more energy means you are more likely to work out and stick to healthy eating habits – helping you to feel more productive and motivated…all in a good night’s sleep!
3. Shed those few extra pounds.
Alcoholic drinks are often around 150 calories each, so when cutting back on alcohol, you may see an improvement in your waistline. Drinking less means you are also less likely to go for those late-night kebabs or greasy spoon breakfasts the morning after a night of heavy drinking.
4. Make a saving.
The average person spends around £50,000 on alcohol in their lifetime! So for the month of January think of the savings you could make! Why not fundraise for your favourite charity or give what you save during Dry January? Giving you a bit of extra motivation and encouragement to use your Dry January to make a difference!
5. That sense of achievement.
So, after a month of abstaining from alcohol you will hopefully be feeling physically better – but don’t forget about that sense of achievement and accomplishment! Cutting back on alcohol can help your mental well-being and set you up for feeling motivated for a healthier and happier lifestyle in 2019!
It’s not too late to start your Dry January journey. Why not sign up to Alcohol Change’s Dry January campaign today to ‘reset’ your relationship with alcohol. They even have an app available for free to download which helps you track your dry day units, calories saved and money saved!
If you are worried about how alcohol is affecting your health, download the ZoomDoc app today and speak to a GP in seconds either via a telephone, video or home visiting consultation. Our GPs are available 24/7 for immediate help and advice.