Embracing Dry January: 10 health benefits of going alcohol-free
At the start of 2025, scores of people across the globe will be looking for different ways to prioritise their health and well-being.
With this in mind, Affinity Health has stressed the benefits of participating in Dry January, which entails abstaining from alcohol for the first month of the year.
Meanwhile, according to clinical recovery care centre Online Rehab, over 30% of the South African population has an alcohol problem.
They added that alcohol affects 17.5 million South Africans and that the country has one of the highest rates of heavy drinking in the world.
But Affinity Health CEO Murray Hewlett believes that Dry January provides a valuable opportunity to pause, reset and prioritise well-being.
“Dry January encourages us to take a break from alcohol for a month to enjoy benefits such as better sleep, more energy and a sense of accomplishment.
Here are Hewlett’s 10 health benefits of taking a break from alcohol this Dry January:
Better sleep quality: The health expert explained that alcohol interrupts your natural sleep cycles, making it harder to get deep, restful sleep.
He said that going alcohol-free lifestyle can help you wake up feeling more refreshed each day.
Improved liver health: Alcohol stresses your liver, which has to work harder to break it down.
Hewlett said that taking a break from alcohol gives your liver a chance to recover, reducing inflammation and improving its ability to handle toxins.
Boosted immune system: A month without alcohol helps your immune system grow more robust, keeping you healthier. This is as the substance weakens the immune system, making it easier to get sick.
Enhanced mental clarity: Alcohol can cloud your mind and affect memory over time.
“Giving it up often leads to better focus, clearer thinking and improved memory,” said Hewlett.
Increased energy levels: Because alcohol is a depressant, it can make you feel tired and sluggish. Hewlett said that taking a break from drinking can help you feel more energised and motivated.
Improved skin health: Alcohol dries out the skin, causing dullness, redness and acne. By abstaining from the substance, it could result in a clearer, more hydrated and glowing skin complexion.
Better digestive health: Hewlett warned that alcohol can irritate the digestive system, causing discomfort and inflammation.
“A break can help reduce symptoms such as bloating, acid reflux and discomfort after eating,” he said.
Lower blood pressure: Alcohol raises blood pressure over time but by reducing or eliminating it, you can significantly lower blood pressure and decrease the risk of heart disease.
Reduced anxiety and stress: While many use alcohol to cope with stress, Hewlett warned that it can often lead to increased anxiety.
“A break allows your body to regulate mood naturally, helping reduce anxiety over time,” he said.
Weight loss and an improved metabolism: Alcohol is high in calories and sugars, so cutting it out can lead to weight loss, especially around the abdomen. Abstaining from it can also improve your body’s metabolic function.
Hewlett’s advice on how to stay committed to Dry January:
- Order a non-alcoholic drink you enjoy, such as sparkling water with lime, while you are out with friends.
- Inform your loved ones that you are participating in Dry January as they’re more likely to offer support.
- Consider a polite response, such as, “I’m taking a break this month,” to avoid the pressure of having to drink alcohol.
- Find a friend doing Dry January, too, so you can encourage each other.
- Remind yourself of the positive changes, including better sleep and more energy, to stay motivated.