Triad doctor encourages people to stay sober after 'Dry January' to create healthier habits
Winston-Salem doctor challenges people to continue practicing 'Dry January' after the month ends
Winston-Salem doctor challenges people to continue practicing 'Dry January' after the month ends
Winston-Salem doctor challenges people to continue practicing 'Dry January' after the month ends
As we end the month, many of you have participated in what's called 'Dry January' pledging to give up alcohol for the start of 2024.
Dr. Kiran Mullur with Atrium Health at Wake Forest Baptist said participating in 'Dry January' can have many benefits, including a healthier liver, better sleep, and better moods.
He said it can also help you create better habits, even after the month-long challenge ends.
"You can do it anytime you want. It doesn't have to be 'Dry January," Dr. Mullur said. "The hope in some ways with this 'Dry January' is if someone has an issue or problem with alcohol and we can capture that early we can prevent some of the long-term effects."
Including heart disease, increased risk of stroke, obesity, and liver disease.
Dr. Mullur explained drinking can also affect your mental health.
"Alcohol we know affects mood, and worsens depression and worsens anxiety and your sleep Alcohol increases the risk of accidents, risk of overdoses and suicide," he said.
The family medicine specialist said there was an uptick in people consuming alcohol during the COVID-19 pandemic.
"One in 10 people struggle with alcohol use disorder, and less than 3 percent of those folks talk with their doctor about it and seek help," he revealed. "I don't think right now the goal isn't to cure alcoholism, I think it's a step in the right direction and it's a step that we should celebrate for so many people."
Dr. Mullur said being able to share your journey whether you participate in 'Dry January' now or later could help you complete the entire sober challenge.