With a new year underway, folks often make resolutions to improve their health. Many commit to taking the Dry January Challenge to abstain from drinking alcohol for one month as a step to change drinking habits or explore the effects that a break from beer, wine, or spirits can have on their health.
This public health initiative, launched in 2013
by Alcohol Change UK to address the role that alcohol plays in people’s lives, has
shown evidence that after 30 days of no drinking, many report better sleep,
increased energy, weight loss, and lower blood pressure.
Harvard Health Publishing
has shared the following tips on How To Do Dry January, along with a reminder to
check with your physician before undertaking any kind of major health change:
*Find a substitute non-alcoholic
drink – for social situations or when you crave a cocktail,
have alcohol-free beverages like sparking water or virgin drinks readily on
hand. Non-alcoholic beer or wine are options but check the label to be sure it is
truly alcohol-free and doesn’t contain high sugar content.
*Avoid temptation –
keep alcohol out of our house and if you are invited to someone’s home, bring
non-alcoholic drinks with you.
*Create a support group –
let friends/family know your intentions so they can help keep you accountable.
Enlist a buddy to do the challenge with you.
*Track your progress on your
phone – Apps are available to track your drinking, help you
set personal goals, and offer motivational info like calorie counts and money
saved from not drinking. An optional free app is: Try Dry (https://alcoholchange.org.uk/help-and-support/managing-your-drinking/dry-january/get-involved/the-dry-january-app
)
*Don’t give up –
if you slip up, don’t feel guilty. Just begin again the next day!
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