Dry July is a month-long campaign that aims to raise awareness for those affected by cancer by abstaining from drinking alcohol for July.
What is Dry July?
Dry July is a fundraiser that encourages people to go alcohol free in July to raise funds for people affected by cancer. In July 2008, three friends decided to abstain from alcohol for July and hoped to raise $2k-$3k for a TV for the hospital, but in turn ended up with $250,000 raised and thus began Dry July Foundation. The foundation is an Australian non-profit organisation.
This Dry July campaign aims to challenge social drinkers to change their habits for a month. Heavy drinkers or those dependent should speak to a GP before taking part in this campaign. The foundation raises funds to improve the comfort and well-being of cancer patients, their families, and carers.
Abstaining from alcohol for a month can make a noticeable difference in health. Research shows that individuals who previously drank regularly and decided to cut out alcohol for 30 days found they slept better, had more energy, and lost weight. It also helps in lowering blood pressure, cholesterol, and reducing cancer-related proteins in their blood.
Benefits to Dry January
Embracing dry July offers many benefits for both physical and mental health. It can serve as a positive push to lasting lifestyle changes for a healthier year ahead.
Detox and physical health
A primary benefit is that it allows the body to undergo a natural detoxification process. The 31 days of avoiding alcohol consumption allow the liver, an organ responsible for processing toxins, to regenerate and function more effectively. This reduces inflammation, improves digestion, and enhances overall liver health.
Limiting alcohol intake can lead to better sleep patterns. Though alcohol initially causes drowsiness, it disturbs the REM sleep cycle, which results in poor sleep quality. In the absence of drinking, individuals often have more restful sleep, improved energy levels, and better concentration during waking hours.
Weight and Calorie reduction
Alcohol is a source of empty calories and tends to lower inhibitions, which may lead to overeating. When individuals are on this journey, they may naturally make healthier food choices, contributing to weight loss and better nutritional intake.
Drink-related snacking and the reduction in calories can lead to noticeable changes in body weight and increased energy levels.
Avoiding dependence
Individuals who consume moderate to heavy amounts of alcohol can have a deep relationship with it without realizing it. This initiative allows people to have a month-long break, which can help break the cycle of dependence. This provides a chance to re-evaluate their drinking habits and make conscious future choices about the quantity consumed. People have said they were able to set healthy boundaries and reduce long-term health issues related to drinking alcohol.
Social interactions
Quitting or reducing alcohol has its health benefits, but it also has many social and personal growth aspects. In social settings, alcoholic beverages can be a norm and sometimes become an issue at gatherings. Individuals who choose non-alcoholic beverages pave themselves to a healthier lifestyle, allowing them to explore other exciting beverages.
Alcohol can lower inhibitions and present limitations to safe driving, which could mean individuals miss out on making meaningful connections and enjoying socializing.
A successful Dry July
A month may seem long to those who drink regularly, but it is not too hard to be successful in giving up.
- Sign up to Dry July challenge
- Ask family, friends and workmates to donate to your cause
- Go alcohol free in July
- Donate the raised funds for cancer to the fundraising campaign.
Preparation
In June, slowly reduce your alcohol intake to half of what is normal. If you are very social, plan your calendar out to see which nights may be alcohol induced and either take your non alcoholic drink with you or purchase the golden ticket. The golden ticket is a one-night off ticket which can be bought by a friend for you for $25, the money of which will also support people affected by cancer.
Substitute non-alcoholic drinks
In social gatherings or in situations where people crave a cocktail, they should reach out for alcohol free drinks like sparkling water or soda, or non-alcoholic beer/wine is also an option.
Avoiding temptations
Ensure that the home remains alcohol free and when invited elsewhere, take your non-alcoholic drinks with you.
Support group
Involving friends and family in the journey and giving them the authority to keep you accountable. This will help keep one encouraged and not give up.
Consult the doctors
Heavy drinkers or those heavily dependent on alcohol should speak to a GP before taking part in this campaign. Though the initiative is designed to help health habits whilst raising awareness for a noble cause, those who may be dependent could experience difficult withdrawal symptoms. It is important to have a medical team to help decide if this challenge could be health-beneficial.
