Did you have a little too much fun in December? Or maybe fell into some unhealthy drinking habits during 2020? Do you want to kick start the year to create a healthier version of yourself? There's a new movement happening worldwide, and it is one inspiring people to stay dry and alcohol-free in January. This month I'm sharing some tips and resources for you to join the movement! Join in on the new wave revolution of going Dry in January.
-Stephanie |
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7 Reasons to Go Dry in January
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The most comprehensive study has shown that six months after completing Dry January, 65% of people positively changed their habits by drinking less or cutting alcohol out totally.
Here are a few of the noted benefits of participating in a Dry January Challenge!
- Feel Better– The effects of alcohol span throughout the entire body, including the brain, heart, and liver. A few benefits include less bloating, healthier-looking skin, better hydration, less inflammation, and most importantly, no hangovers!
- Improved Energy - Alcohol disrupts the sleep cycle, interferes with the quality of deep sleep, and makes it harder to stay asleep. Lack of sleep leaves you feeling sluggish and drained and can make it harder to lose unwanted weight.
- Mental Clarity– The consequences of alcohol on the brain are no joke. You may start to notice more restful sleep, stress relief, improved mood, and a clear mind.
- Decreased in Anxiety - People often turn to alcohol to relax and unwind. However, the truth is, regular alcohol consumption can cause you to feel more anxious. Drinking regularly can interfere with your body's ability to manage stress, interfering with your natural stress response. Many people report that decreasing alcohol intake results in a decrease in anxiety!
- Save money– The cost of alcohol can add up over time. You might notice a happier bank account during the challenge. Check out this online tool by Finder.com that calculates your "liquidity" to determine your actual savings.
- Weight Loss– Alcohol contributes extra empty calories. One of the benefits of giving up booze is a drop in body fat.
- Develop Healthier Habits– Use this time to cultivate new habits and identify healthier ways to manage stress and emotions.
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Isn't Alcohol Good for Us?
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Alcohol may not be as good for you as we have once believed.
Many of the studies that link alcohol to certain health benefits have been exaggerated by the media. Some of the research touting alcohol's benefits was paid for by alcohol companies.
We're not saying that alcohol is a bad thing. Moderate alcohol consumption is associated with boosting our "good" HDL cholesterol and reducing our overall heart disease risk.
However, the adverse side effects of alcohol can outweigh the health benefits, including:
- increased risk of breast cancer
- impotence in men (due to the impact of alcohol on testosterone)
- bone loss
- muscle wasting
- esophageal, throat, and liver cancer
- alcohol abuse or addiction
As with most things, moderation is key.
If you are of legal drinking age and consuming alcohol, follow the guidelines below for moderate intake, which includes:
- No more than 1 - 2 drinks per day for men
- One drink per women
- One drink equals 12 oz of regular beer, 5 oz wine, or 1.5 oz of 80-proof liquor.
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Featured Recipe
Citrus Zest Bucha
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Ingredients:
- crushed ice for serving
- One lime sliced
- One orange sliced
- 1/2 grapefruit sliced
- 2 ounces freshly squeezed orange juice
- 2 ounces freshly squeezed lime juice
- 6 ounces grapefruit or citrus kombucha
INSTRUCTIONS:
Fill the glasses with crushed iced and a mix of sliced citrus! In each glass, stir together the juices and kombucha. Garnish with lime and orange slices.
Enjoy!
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Be Inspired
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"I'm Not Telling You It Is Going To Be Easy, I'm Telling You It's Going To Be Worth It."
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About SO Nutrition
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Stephanie Leipprandt Ouellette, MBA, RDN, LD Stephanie has been working in the field of nutrition and dietetics since 1995. She earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Dietetics from Michigan State University, completed an Approved Pre-Professional Practice Program at Western Michigan University and earned a Master of Business Administration from Baker College. She’s been a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist since 1996 and licensed in Texas since 2007. In 2008, Stephanie earned her certification in Childhood and Adolescent Weight Management. Stephanie has extensive clinical & managerial experience, both in corporate settings and in the community. Now she wants to share her knowledge with you, because most (if not all) nutritional habits begin at home.
Stephanie and her family reside in Katy, Texas
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