LOUISVILLE, Ky. — With the new year still underway, many people are continuing to work toward their New Year’s resolutions.
Norton Healthcare says one of the most beneficial resolutions is participating in Dry January, a month-long challenge that encourages people to give up alcohol.
In addition to helping people save money after the holidays, doctors say taking a break from alcohol can improve sleep, increase energy levels, lower blood pressure and support weight loss.
Dr. Monalisa Tailor of Norton Healthcare said the biggest benefit of Dry January is its effect on sleep and mood.
“The biggest benefit of a Dry January, in my opinion, is the impact on your sleep and the impact on your mood. Winter is hard. It’s cold. It’s hard to get outside,” Tailor said.
She added that many people tend to slow down during the winter months, and alcohol can worsen those effects.
“We all want to cozy up and not do much. Alcohol is going to be a depressant, and it’s going to make you feel even lower, especially if the weather impacts you,” she said.
Health experts also note that an extended break from alcohol may reduce the risk of several types of cancer, including stomach and breast cancer.
Leave a Comment