IS a completely Anglo-Saxon custom that of start the new year with Dry January, which is a whole month without alcohol. Practiced since 2013, the aim is to purify the body after the “revels” of the Christmas holidays. Almost a kind of gift to one’s psychophysical form, the benefits that can in fact be noticed on body, skin and mind they are many, some visible others more silent.
Dry January, how it works on the mind
Eliminating alcohol from your diet means first of all introducing less sugar in your body “In fact, at the beginning sugars tend to bring a feeling of lightness and well-being, in the long run, however, they weigh down both physically, because they are transformed into adipose reserve creating the “alcoholic bacon”, both at the neurological level, slowing down the activity of the brain»Explains Dr. Manuela Mapelli, nutritionist biologist.
It is no coincidence that some studies show that, in alcohol withdrawal, after 15 days the brain begins to be much more alert and reactive. But you don’t necessarily have to wait two weeks. The first benefits of Dry January begin to be seen in the first 24-72 hours «Already after 24 hours the mind begins to regulate itself on the new absence, in particular the sugary one. After 72 hours the brain “stabilizes”, getting used to it and decreasing the desire for wine and the like. It is at this time that the mind begins to “wake up”, focus better and sooner“.
Between skin and liver, the body gets used to the absence of alcohol
But it’s not just a question of the more reactive mind why the whole organism reacts positively to the absence of alcohol. After a week, the first benefits begin to be seen on the skin as well. In fact, if a considerable use of alcohol and super alcoholic products causes dull skin, in some cases even couperose, red, swollen and dark circles eyes, the detox phase leads to an epidermal rebirth. The skin indeed begins to truly rehydrate becoming more and more luminous, less marked by wrinkles and expression lines, without skin rashes and redness and therefore with a more uniform complexion.
“Obviously, the liver also benefits from it which, less fatigued by toxins, begins to work much faster and, with it, also improves intestinal function »explains the doctor. The benefits on rest should not be underestimated «An alcoholic detox phase, in fact, brings with it a qualitative improvement even in sleep, which will be more regular and less agitated, and therefore deeper with a better quality of rest ».
Duration of Dry January and alternatives
But how long does the detox phase have to last to notice all these improvements? “At least 15 days, preferably 30. Combine alcohol abstinence with one more balanced nutrition can really help you achieve an effective detox. We can combine the Dry January with a cruelty free January to help lighten the body by purifying it of toxins. Helping yourself with a diet based on seasonal fruit and vegetables is the basis of every type of healthy diet.
My advice is to insert portions of fresh fruit and vegetables every day, preferably in season. A rule that is particularly valid after the extravagances of the holidays, because it helps the body’s filter function, ensuring intestinal regularity thanks to the rich supply of fiber, and the liver is essential for disposing of toxins ».
What if you just can’t give up an aperitif? «You can opt for a tomato juice seasoned with olive oil, pepper and ginger, to be served with crunchy vegetables such as celery and carrots. A very purifying aperitif, rich in antioxidants, which hydrate us and rich in fiber and mineral salts »concludes the expert.
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