Let’s toast to better health—today, tomorrow, and all year long

Happy New Year’s Eve!

I hope you take some time today to reflect on the past year and count your blessings. I know I will.

And as always, I’m looking forward to starting fresh in 2025.

So, let’s raise toast to better health—starting with avoiding a nasty hangover tomorrow.

Let’s detox from too much holiday cheer

Have you heard of “dry January”?

It’s a growing trend where people voluntarily kick alcohol to the curb for at least one month. (To be clear, some people do this throughout the calendar year—not only in January.)

For many, it’s a chance to detox after weeks of holiday indulgence. But are there deeper health benefits?

Well—according to a study published in BMJ Open, the answer is yes.

Researchers looked at the impact of abstaining from alcohol for one month versus continued to drink an average of 2.5 alcoholic beverages daily.

Turns out, those who went alcohol-free saw significant improvements in the metabolic health compared to the control group. In fact, they lost weight, reduced blood pressure, and improved insulin resistance. They also experienced better sleep.

Of course, these subjects also gained a financial benefit, since they weren’t purchasing alcohol as often.

And perhaps most interesting of all is the fact that those who abstained from alcohol for one month continued to drink considerably less over six months later.

When to rethink your alcohol intake

While these health benefits are certainly something to celebrate, let me be clear: I’m not saying you need to abstain from alcohol completely—or forever.

Instead, I encourage you to rethink your alcohol intake, especially if you overindulge frequently. Remember—moderation is key.

As always, I suggest choosing clear spirits and sugar-free mixers. (Think vodka and club soda with a twist of lime, or a dirty martini without the vermouth.) And call it quits after two.

Of course, if you or someone you love tend to find the bottom of a bottle more often than not, you might consider going “dry.” You should also be open and honest with your healthcare practitioner and allow them to guide you through this tricky transition.

And remember… you don’t have to fill your glass with an alcoholic beverage in order to toast to the New Year. (Get creative! Or simply go with sparkling water with a slice of lime.)

To gain a better understanding of the impact of alcohol on your health, “good” and “bad,” check out the September 2021 issue of my monthly newsletter, Logical Health Alternatives (“Your body on booze: Breaking down the good, the bad, and the unknown”). Click here now!

Here’s to a healthy and happy 2025!

Source:

“The benefits of ‘Dry January’ last longer than a month, studies show.” The Washington Post, 12/27/2022. (washingtonpost.com/wellness/2022/12/27/dry-january-health-benefits/)