New research from Dry January 2018, involving over 800 participants, reveals that abstaining from alcohol for a month leads to greater control over drinking habits, increased energy, better skin, and weight loss. Remarkably, participants reported sustained reductions in alcohol intake even months later, with benefits persisting into August.
The study tracked key metrics: drinking days dropped from an average of 4.3 to 3.3 per week; units consumed per drinking day fell from 8.6 to 7.1; and episodes of intoxication decreased from 3.4 to 2.1 per month.
Lead researcher Dr. Richard de Visser noted: "Simply abstaining from alcohol for a month helps people drink less long-term. By August, participants enjoyed an extra dry day per week, alongside immediate gains: nine in ten saved money, seven in ten slept better, and three in five lost weight."
Even those who didn't complete the full month saw benefits, though smaller in scale, underscoring the value of attempting the challenge.
Survey highlights included:
93% felt a sense of accomplishment;
88% saved money;
82% reflected more on their alcohol relationship;
80% gained better control over drinking;
76% learned about their drinking triggers;
71% realized they don't need alcohol to enjoy life;
70% reported better overall health;
71% slept better;
67% had more energy;
58% lost weight;
57% improved concentration;
54% noticed better skin.
Findings stem from three online surveys: 2,821 at registration, 1,715 in early February, and 816 in August.
