Is an alcohol-detox in January actually a good idea?
| Jan 3, 2018, 12:42 IST
Most of us have New Year resolutions to do with keeping active or fit or even going light on the alcohol. In fact, ditching alcohol in the first month of the new year is actually a tradition practised amongst many. So, let's come to the heated question. Is an alcohol-detox in January actually good for health? Well, while this news might come off as 'sad news' for many, experts actually do claim that a 'Dry January' will do you good.
It comes as no surprise that abstaining from alcohol is good for health. Excessive intakes of it can lead to several health issues. But, that we know, right? However, taking a one-month hiatus at the beginning of the year will help you detox from all the alcohol you consumed during the 'celebratory season' of December. Also, if, for instance, you've been feeling not your best lately and you suspect that your regular (or excessive) drinking habits might be contributing to that, it could be helpful to see how you're feeling (mentally, physically, socially, etc.) when you don't have booze for a month.
“For some people, it can be a great way to hit the reset button and get their systems back on track,” said New York-based R.D. Jessica Cording. And the right way to do it is by giving your doctor a heads up before abruptly stopping drinking if you've been drinking a lot, as you may experience withdrawal symptoms. So, what health benefits come out of this, you ask? If you're having several drinks a week, one of the main benefits of sober January could be a decrease in your overall calories, since a standard drink typically has around 150 calories. That's incentive enough, right? It may help you feel more clear-headed and experience better sleep along with regular digestion. It will also have a positive effect on your immune system.
It comes as no surprise that abstaining from alcohol is good for health. Excessive intakes of it can lead to several health issues. But, that we know, right? However, taking a one-month hiatus at the beginning of the year will help you detox from all the alcohol you consumed during the 'celebratory season' of December. Also, if, for instance, you've been feeling not your best lately and you suspect that your regular (or excessive) drinking habits might be contributing to that, it could be helpful to see how you're feeling (mentally, physically, socially, etc.) when you don't have booze for a month.
“For some people, it can be a great way to hit the reset button and get their systems back on track,” said New York-based R.D. Jessica Cording. And the right way to do it is by giving your doctor a heads up before abruptly stopping drinking if you've been drinking a lot, as you may experience withdrawal symptoms. So, what health benefits come out of this, you ask? If you're having several drinks a week, one of the main benefits of sober January could be a decrease in your overall calories, since a standard drink typically has around 150 calories. That's incentive enough, right? It may help you feel more clear-headed and experience better sleep along with regular digestion. It will also have a positive effect on your immune system.