Overview
- Controlled studies in London report that several weeks without alcohol can cut liver fat by about 40% and lower blood lipids, blood sugar and blood pressure in moderate drinkers.
- A University of Sussex study of roughly 800 participants found they drank on fewer days months after Dry January, averaging 3.3 days per week in August versus 4.3 beforehand, with fewer episodes of intoxication.
- A Reframe app analysis of more than 220,000 self-reports indicates weekends and social occasions drive most relapses and suggests a “Damp January” approach is often easier and more sustainable than full abstinence.
- Alternating alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks is gaining traction as a simple reduction tactic, aided by wider availability of zero-proof options in bars, restaurants and at home.
- New U.S. dietary guidelines omit specific daily alcohol quantities in favor of a general message to drink less, with a federal briefing featuring CMS Administrator Mehmet Oz characterizing alcohol as a social catalyst while not endorsing it.