After the excesses of the festive season, many Brits have been doing Dry January in an attempt to redress the balance. However it's likely that some people don't really know what impact it has on their health.
Now, Britons taking part in Dry January are being told they could experience a better night’s sleep after ditching the booze this month. Experts at Online-Bedrooms.co.uk have researched the changes that can happen to the body by swapping alcohol for a sobering refreshment.
One of the most common New Year’s resolutions for many is to cut down on drinking and take part in Dry January, which involves not touching a drop of alcohol for the whole month. The trend is known to have many positive benefits both physically and mentally, the experts said.
Alcohol is a depressant that can hamper someone’s mood once the buzz fades and, with many struggling with January blues, drinking can only worsen the negative symptoms. Taking a break from the drink can lead to a restful night’s sleep and help shed the extra pounds gained over Christmas.
Nic Shacklock from Online-Bedrooms.co.uk said: “We all know how important it is to get a decent night’s sleep and not having a drop of alcohol for a month can lead to a blissful slumber. Dry January is the perfect time for those wanting to make healthy changes to their lifestyle and can result in many positive changes within the body. Not only can it help with sleep, but it can also lead to better mood stability and improved skin health which is noticeable for some after giving up drinking for the month.”
Here are some of the changes that can happen to your body during Dry January, according to Online-Bedrooms.co.uk:
Better sleep
Cutting out alcohol can improve sleep cycles and lead to fewer awakenings at night. While it may not work instantly, it will progressively change for the better as your body gets used to having no alcohol in its system.
Improved skin
One of the changes will be less red blush on your face, especially around the cheeks. It can also give you a glow and a healthier look, as drinking alcohol can lead to dry and wrinkled skin.
Aids weight loss
Being sober isn’t a miracle cure for weight loss, but quitting booze can help to shed the extra pounds gained over the winter break. For example, one bottle of wine can have more than 600 calories, so cutting this out of the diet can make a significant change.
Improved liver health
The liver can significantly worsen after too much alcohol intake, so even a month’s break to improve its health can help to prevent problems later down the line.
Mood stability
As alcohol is a depressant and an increased intake can cause anger and anxiety. While dropping alcohol isn’t a cure for depression, a reduced intake may ease some of the negative emotions from forming.
Gives focus
Cutting down on drinking can increase concentration levels and give you better focus. This can also help you to find new interests which don’t purely relate to alcohol, but other hobbies and activities to occupy your spare time.
