One month without alcohol transforms sleep, mood and organ health
A month without alcohol can bring surprising health benefits, according to a recent study. Researchers at Brown University analysed data from over 150,000 people to explore the effects of abstaining from alcohol for just 31 days. The findings show noticeable improvements in sleep, mood, and even organ health.
The Dry January campaign began in the UK in 2013 as a way to encourage people to give up alcohol for the first month of the year. By 2025, participation had surged to 200,000 official sign-ups.
The Brown University study reviewed 16 separate research projects to assess the impact of a single alcohol-free month. Participants reported better sleep quality and more stable moods. Many also lost weight during the period. Beyond these changes, the study recorded physical health improvements. Blood pressure dropped, liver fat decreased, and blood glucose levels became more balanced. Researchers admitted they were taken aback by how quickly these benefits appeared in such a short timeframe.
The results suggest that even a brief break from alcohol can lead to measurable health gains. With Dry January continuing to grow in popularity, more people may experience these positive effects firsthand. The study provides concrete evidence that a month of abstinence can make a real difference to well-being.
