Could Dry January change your life?

After the indulgence of the party season, it’s estimated that over four million of us will try to make amends by taking part in “Dry January”. The challenge involves giving up alcohol for 31 days, in an attempt to reset our relationship with booze and kick-start our wellbeing.

Shockingly, one in five women and one in three men are drinking at levels that pose some risk to their health.

“Many people are unaware they are drinking at levels that could put their health at risk,” warns Richard Piper, from charity Alcohol Change UK. “Alcohol is the biggest cause of death, ill health and disability for people aged 15-49 in the UK. It’s linked to liver disease, high blood pressure, mental health problems and seven types of cancer. Cutting back reduces your risk of developing these conditions.”

But opinion is divided over Dry January and some critics argue we’d be better having two or three alcoholfree days every week, all year, than just a sober month. Yet Alcohol Research UK says participants feel healthier, with 67 per cent having more energy, 71 per cent sleeping better and 58 per cent losing weight. With an average person spending almost £50,000 on alcohol over their lifetime, the financial savings aren’t to be sniffed at, either. Closer speaks to two women who gave up booze in the New Year, with very different results…