To limit your alcohol consumption, to take up that personal challenge, to adopt a healthier lifestyle, because you overindulged a little during the festive season... There are as many reasons to do this Dry January 2024 as there are bottles in the vineyards of France. If you'd like to try the alcohol-free adventure during this first month of the year, here's what you need to know.
But first, where does this challenge come from? Dry January was born in 2013 in Great Britain, on the initiative of the Alcohol Change UK organization. In France, the action is supported by numerous associations for health, and against addictions: we find notably the Fonds Actions Addictions, associations of addictologists (SFA, FFA and ANPAA...), the Ligue contre le cancer, as well as associations of patients, health users, students (France Assos Santé, Aides, France patients experts, la Fage...) and fighting addictions in companies (Adixio).
Every year, thousands of people take part in this personal challenge. It's a challenge with a worldwide following, and one that's rapidly gaining in popularity.
So it's decided, you won't swallow a drop of alcohol this month. As it's easier said than done, the event is accompanied by a website packed with tips and testimonials. You can also download thefree Try Dry - Dry Januaryapp. It features tips, notifications to keep you motivated, and an interface to help you keep track of how much you're drinking.
What's the point of taking part in this experiment? First and foremost, Dry January saves you money, and that's just as well, because the January sales are coming up. But more than that, limiting alcohol consumption has very beneficial effects on health.
Although alcohol is a liquid, it doesn't help hydrate your body: quite the contrary. When you stop drinking, you'll notice many changes, including softer, more beautiful skin.
What's more, alcohol is rich in empty calories. Many people lose weight by cutting down on their consumption. But beware: with these fewer calories, the body can go intohypoglycemic fits, making you want to devour an entire bag of sweets. To compensate while maintaining a healthy diet, turn instead to avocados, green vegetables like broccoli, asparagus or cauliflower, and cook with extra virginolive oil andcoconut oil.
Another benefit: better quality sleep. In the U.S. version of HuffPost, brain health researcher specializing in sleep science Marc Milstein asserts that " reducing or stopping your alcohol intake will really help you sleep better. " He explains that alcohol destroys glutamate, an excitatory neurotransmitter that helps us stay awake. To repair this damage, the brain will secrete more of this neurotransmitter, often in the middle of the night.
Alcohol also plays a devastating role in our mental health. The antidepressant effects of alcohol, often sought-after, evaporate very quickly, giving way to feelings ofanxiety.
But beware: if you're used to consuming a lot of alcohol, or on a very regular basis, abrupt withdrawal can have dangerous effects. It's advisable to consult your doctor if you're worried about side effects (tremors, hallucinations, palpitations and high blood pressure) from stopping alcohol.
Quitting alcohol doesn't have to put a stop to your social life! You and your friends can still get together and enjoy the bar scene, while sipping delicious alcohol-free cocktails.
Let's all celebrate the start of this new experience with a big glass of water!
As a reminder, alcohol consumption is the cause of many illnesses, including cancer and vascular disease, and kills 41,000 people a year in France. Alcohol is one of the leading causes of death in France, accounting for 7% of all deaths, according to the latest Bulletin épidémiologique hebdomadaire (BEH). If you think you have a problem with alcohol addiction, consult the Alcool Info Service website or talk to your doctor.
Alcohol abuse is dangerous for your health, please drink responsibly.
