What is Dry January?

"Dry January is the annual movement through which millions of people give up alcohol for the month of January.

Doing Dry January:

• Enables you to take control of your relationship with alcohol.

• Drives a conversation about alcohol: why do we drink it, what does it do, and how can we reduce the harm it can cause?"

Giving up alcohol for just one month can bring improvements in concentration, blood pressure and blood sugar levels, not to mention the benefits for your liver.

All this seemed quite appropriate given we are preparing for our next Crew Health Advice focussing on Liver Health.

So again this year I am taking part in the Dry January challenge and swapping my recreational glass of bubbles for a glass of water!  At this point I am over half way through the challenge and I can honestly say I am already feeling the benefits.  It has not been as difficult as I thought.

Although there have been some times where I have been tempted to break the abstinence (at social events with friends, business entertaining etc) I have stood firm.  Mainly I have noticed I have more energy and I am sleeping better. My skin is a little clearer and happily I have also lost a couple of pounds over the last 17 days.  I feel fitter and more alert particularly in the morning. I've even saved a few pounds on my shopping bill! All these benefits are definitely very welcome after the excesses which traditionally come with December, Christmas and New Year festivities.

At the end of January of course there is a tendency to revert to old habits (especially as 1st February is my birthday!)  However, this year after surviving without alcohol for a whole month I am inclined to continue the healthy lifestyle.  I have therefore decided to have at least two to three consecutive alcohol-free days every week. This will ensure the positive impact of Dry January lasts a little longer and I am sure my liver will thank me for it!"

Additional information and support on Dry January can be found on the following website