The new year is a time for resolutions and healthy living, and each year more than five million people choose to give up alcohol for a month following the festive season.

Dry January has really taken off over the last few years and continues to grow. The health benefits reported by those who take part mean it's a campaign we're happy to endorse.

What is ‘Dry January’?

Dry January is the annual movement run by the charity Alcohol Concern, through which millions of people give up alcohol for the month of January.

Why do ‘Dry January’?

Lose Weight

The key to losing weight is to burn more calories than you consume, and reducing the amount you drink can help you lower your calorie intake. What’s more, calories in alcohol are considered ‘empty’ calories, as they don’t provide you with any nutrients.  

And it’s not just the calories from alcohol that you’ll cut out that could help you get in shape; cutting back on alcohol will mean that you are less likely to opt for that fatty takeaway that seems so appealing at the end of a night out, or the chocolate at the back of the fridge after a couple of glasses of wine at home.

Save Money

Giving alcohol a miss is one of the easiest ways to save cash, and if you need an added incentive think of all the amazing things you can spend the money you save on!

Furthermore studies have shown that a prolonged period without alcohol can also alter your drinking habits in the long term, meaning fewer mornings staring at an empty wallet or a pocket full of receipts.

Feel Great

An alcohol-free month can do wonders for the health of regular drinkers. Previous participants of Dry January have reported higher levels of productivity, sleeping better and having clearer skin.

There’s also evidence that a prolonged period without alcohol can lead to higher energy and better moods, therefore actually helping you beat the January blues.

More information

If you think your health or bank balance could benefit then head over to www.alcoholconcern.org.uk/dry-january for more info and to sign up to the scheme.

But remember, there's no need to wait until January. You can start your month off booze any time you like if you'd like to discover the health benefits it can bring!

And let's be honest, lectures without a hangover are far more enjoyable...