What 30 Days Without Alcohol Can Do to Your Brain and Body
Women’s Health examines the changes that can follow a month without alcohol.
A review of 16 Dry January studies examined what may change during a month without alcohol. Participants said they felt happier, had more energy, found it easier to concentrate, and often reported weight loss. Physical measures also improved, including blood pressure, vascular health, liver function, and insulin resistance. Some benefits appeared among people who reduced their drinking without stopping completely.
The changes may affect everyday well-being. Alcohol provides calories and can influence eating, while drinking may reduce inhibitions and lead to extra food. It can also disrupt deep, restful sleep, so removing it was linked with better sleep. Megan Strowger, PhD, a study author and University at Buffalo researcher, said the brain may stabilize when alcohol’s influence is removed, supporting mood and mental health.
The people taking part were more often female, younger, college-educated, higher-income, and heavy drinkers before the challenge. At a six-month follow-up, participants generally drank less and showed fewer signs of alcohol use disorder. The review also noted that adults under age 35 were less likely to say they drank than two decades earlier: 62 percent compared with 72 percent.
- The review included 16 Dry January studies.
- Health improvements were also reported by some people who only reduced drinking.
- A six-month follow-up found participants generally drank less.
- Among adults under 35, reported drinking was 62 percent, down from 72 percent two decades earlier.
Summarized from the reporting above. Read it for the full story.
Our one-page guide to chair height, screen height and where your feet go. Free at the front desk or by request.
A first consultation is free for new patients, including a take-home handout of that day's stretches.
Book a first visit →
Share this story