Millions commit to ‘Dry January’
INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) — A study shows taking a month away from alcohol may help you achieve just about any new year’s resolution goals. It’s called ‘Dry January.’
The idea is to take a break from alcohol after the celebration-filled holiday season and detox in a way. But the study recently released out of the University of Sussex including about 800 people who took part in Dry January 2018, shows some shocking results.
The University of Sussex research showed that:
- 88 percent saved money;
- 70 percent had generally improved health;
- 71 percent slept better;
- 67 percent had more energy;
- 58 percent lost weight;
- 54 percent had better skin.
The researchers say those are very tangible benefits to skipping the drinks. But we talked to Dr. Danielle Henderson at IU Health and she says the biggest takeaway may be a perspective change.
“A new relationship with alcohol and alcohol intake and maybe finding that you might not need it as you might feel you do when you do drink. And just kind of that step away from it can make you re-evaluate having that in your life or how much you have it in your life,” Henderson said.
The research out of the UK did show that those who took part in Dry January 2018 were still drinking less when they filled out surveys in August.
A poll there shows 4.2-million Brits chose to participate in Dry January this year and there have been more than 126,000 posts on Instagram using #DryJanuary.
Whether you’re taking part in Dry January or another new year’s resolution, Henderson says make details plans to achieve your goal.
“It’s wonderful to set lofty goals, but you have to work daily and in small chunks to get there and then also, be kind to yourself, when you’re making a behavior change, it’s hard and so recognizing that it’s going to be hard you’re going to have to be patient and be compassionate toward yourself,” Henderson said.
Health experts say the good thing about Dry January is that it’s not at all about January. This is something you can do any month of the year. And if you’re initial reaction to it is “No way,” experts say you might really want to consider giving it a try.