Overview
- Brown University’s analysis of 16 studies covering more than 150,000 people reports improved sleep, mood, weight loss and biomarker changes after a month off alcohol, including less liver fat, better insulin measures, lower blood pressure and reduced cancer‑related growth factors.
- Participants commonly drink less for months afterward and report greater confidence refusing drinks, with similar though smaller benefits seen among those who cut back rather than fully abstain.
- A minority who failed to complete the month reported a rebound in drinking, prompting calls for more research into both full abstinence and “Damp January.”
- Outcomes were stronger for those who formally registered for Dry January or used supports such as the Try Dry app and daily coaching emails or texts.
- Researchers note participants skew younger, female and higher income and often are heavier drinkers, while critics question population‑level impact and dietitians warn that high‑sugar mocktails or cocktail‑style cues can pose risks, especially for people in recovery.