As the new year approaches, experts highlight the significant impact of alcohol on health, including the risk of severe liver disease with as few as two drinks per day for women and three for men, with women experiencing double the liver toxicity; alcohol-related liver disease has increased during the COVID-19 pandemic, and the only effective treatment is abstinence.
Dry January, where individuals abstain from alcohol for a month, can lead to various health improvements such as better sleep, hydration, skin appearance, sexual function, and reduced blood pressure. It may also prompt a decrease in liver enzymes, indicating liver recovery. While the long-term benefits depend on drinking habits post-January, studies suggest that participants often drink less even six months later, indicating that Dry January can help break drinking habits and encourage healthier choices in the long run.