Dry January Offers Health Reset for Iowans in the New Year

Many Iowans are taking part in “Dry January,” a month-long break from alcohol, and a local health expert says the effort can be a helpful reset for the new year.

Amanda Westphal, a community benefits specialist with Emplify Health by Gundersen, says January is often when people take stock of their habits and look for ways to improve overall wellness.

“January is often a time for folks to look at their lifestyle habits and maybe think about some changes they can make to improve health and well-being for the year ahead,” Westphal says. “Dry January is one kind of tactic or one strategy to look at that specific piece of health and well-being.”

Westphal says cutting back — even temporarily — can lead to noticeable physical benefits.

“You may find that you’re sleeping better at night, and that you are able to focus a little bit more, and you have more energy during the day,” she says.

She adds there can be mental health benefits, too.

“You may find that you are having less feelings of anxiousness,” Westphal says. “You’ll find that you’re having a better mood and mental clarity.”

For those trying Dry January, Westphal says support and planning can make the challenge easier.

“Tap into your support system,” she says. “Find a friend or a family member that can participate with you. That can help you both stay accountable and give that support for each other.”

She also suggests finding substitutes and activities that don’t revolve around alcohol.

“Mocktails are really popular right now,” Westphal says. “You can also try social activities or activities in general that don’t involve drinking.”

And beyond health improvements, she notes many people will see a financial benefit by skipping the bar tab.

Emplify Health by Gundersen operates clinics in Calmar, Decorah, Fayette, Lansing, Postville and Waukon, along with a hospital in West Union.