The new year sees millions of people choosing to participate in Dry January – a month-long break from alcohol – aimed at resetting habits and improving overall health and wellbeing. Though only a short challenge, it posits remarkable, and even surprising benefits, both for physical and mental wellbeing.
The reasons for getting involved in the experiment varies, but common motives include:
For those who are currently taking part or are simply interested in the advantages of Dry January, take a read of this article to find out more!
Deeper sleep
One of the most notable improvements is better sleep quality. Alcohol strongly interferes with the body’s natural sleep schedule, meaning that the restorative functions of sleep are inhibited due to interruptions and cognitive changes.
Behavioural sleep medicine psychologist, Jade Wu, PhD, explains that “having several alcoholic drinks close to bedtime initially has a hypnotic effect – you fall asleep faster and sleep more deeply. Early in the night, it can also reduce REM sleep, the stage you dream in.” However, the second half of the night introduces complications. “You have more periods of light sleep, more awakenings, and more intense bouts of REM. Your dreams may become more vivid or you may have nightmares.”
Removing alcohol means an improved sleep overall, which is closely linked to better mood stability in the following days, enhanced concentration, and reduced stress levels. Dr Wu continues, “sleep is more efficient and healthier when you don’t drink alcohol. You may feel more rested and wake up fewer times during the night.”
Weight loss and digestion
Weight loss is another benefit, with improved insulin resistance also apparent. Due to the fact that alcohol offers calories without any nutritional value, it contributes to weight gain without any dietetic purpose. Drinking is also a major contributor to issues such as heartburn – increasing the production of stomach acid, and relaxing the muscles of the stomach allowing a reflux of stomach acid.
As described by Rotonya M. Carr, MD – a hepatologist and the Division Head of Gastroenterology at the University of Washington School of Medicine – “alcohol is a digestive system irritant”. She explains that “giving up alcohol is one of the first steps we recommend to help [patients with heartburn] feel better… other people report giving up drinking makes them feel less bloated day to day.”
Long-term benefits
As evidenced by a report from UT Southwestern Medical Centre, by quitting drinking alcohol, a variety of lasting benefits are established, including reduced risk of:
Oral health
As alcohol has a drying effect on the mouth, the reduced saliva flow jeopardises vital functions like rinsing away food debris, and protecting against gum disease and decay. Day-to-day, reduced saliva can allow harmful bacteria to cause bad breath, whilst long-term, the risk of cavities and oral infections is significantly increased.
Alcoholic drinks can also often be high in acid- and sugar-content, especially when combined with soft drinks. Regularly exposing teeth to this acid can lead to enamel erosion, making them more vulnerable to decay and sensitivity, whilst excess sugar causes oral health complications too. Furthermore, regular alcohol consumption increases inflammation in the body, including the gingiva – which can exacerbate gum disease.
A step in the right direction
Dry January offers more than just the experience of ‘feeling good’, but the opportunity to prioritise health over temporary enjoyment. Providing meaningful improvements to physical and mental wellbeing – such as sleep quality and increased stress – participating in Dry January can mean positively reinforced habits that support long-term systemic health.
>Since you’re here, why not read about Study changes understanding of dental health and mortality?
