BCAT News

With the arrival of 2025 many are taking to the annual tradition of New Year’s resolutions. Over the past 20 years Dry January has become a popular movement for people to stop drinking alcohol during the month of January. 

The Dry January month of sobriety takes place following the holiday season where there is often celebration and a higher consumption of alcohol. Abstinence from alcohol can improve many factors of one’s life including improved health, better sleep and weight loss. Morning Consultant found 15% of Americans stay sober during the month of January.

According to Beth Israel Lahey Health website there are many benefits to not drinking alcohol. 

1. Improved Sleep Quality

Refraining from alcohol can improve your sleep quality. Not only does it likely mean fewer late nights, but it can reverse the negative effects alcohol can have on rapid-eye movement (REM) sleep. This is one of the most important phases of your sleep cycle, during which your body restores and regulates itself.

2. Weight Loss

A light beer can have anywhere between 90 and 150 calories. A glass of red wine might come in at well over 150. With those numbers, some of us could be notching 600 calories or more on a night out – and that doesn’t even count the late-night pizza or fast food that sometimes follow.

3. Better Diet and Exercise

If you struggle to stay true to a diet and exercise routine, one night out can really derail things. The subpar sleep and dehydrating effects of alcohol can make it difficult to hit the gym in the morning, and that caloric intake can make it seem like all your progress has gone up in smoke.

4. More Energy

The cumulative effect of improved sleep, weight loss and greater commitment to your health goals can contribute to higher levels of energy during the day.

Everyone’s Dry January experience will be different, but even if you don’t see any of the above benefits, abstinent periods like Dry January can be a good time to reassess your relationship with alcohol.

Many restaurants provide non-alcoholic beverages, mocktails and near-beer substitutes year round, particularly during Dry January. Be sure to ask about Dry January alternatives next time you go out to a bar or restaurant.