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Dry January 2026 Sees Wide Participation as Evidence Points to Measurable Health Gains

Experts now frame the month as a springboard to sustainable drinking habits, with medical caution for heavy daily drinkers.

Overview

  • Surveys indicate 56% of U.S. adults planned to take part this year, while Alcohol Change UK reports polling that more Britons than ever intended to go alcohol‑free for the month.
  • Clinicians report that a few weeks off alcohol can improve sleep and energy and begin to lower blood pressure and blood sugars, with studies also noting benefits for liver health and insulin resistance.
  • Doctors advise that people who drink heavily every day should avoid going cold turkey because of withdrawal risks and should taper and consult a physician for medication or therapy support.
  • Industry and advocacy voices caution against perfectionism, encouraging moderation and viewing slip‑ups as part of a longer‑term reset rather than a failure.
  • UK commentary suggests an alternative approach of sticking to government drinking guidelines for a month to build realistic, lasting habits.