It’s January 11th, so maybe I’m a little late to the game
in chatting about Dry January—the idea of taking a month or longer off from drinking alcohol. I’ve seen a lot of posts on social media discussing the link between alcohol consumption and various cancers. Mouth and throat, liver, breast, colon, stomach, and pancreas are all at risk. I don’t think this is new news.
Several years ago, I was inspired to think about my own alcohol consumption. I wasn’t feeling particularly well, even with a low amount of alcohol. Sometimes I would start to get a headache in the middle of having a drink. Talk about a buzzkill! Moving from Brooklyn to Denver has certainly helped lock in a healthier lifestyle in many ways. NYC—the city that never sleeps—is a place where people often meet for drinks because space is at a premium. Meeting for drinks is often cheaper than going for a whole meal. You get the picture.
Finally, I don’t want my kids to grow up seeing me drinking at every meal, every evening, or even every social event. Modeling a balanced approach to alcohol feels important to me.
How Does Alcohol Increase Cancer Risk?
- Toxin Production: Alcohol is metabolized into acetaldehyde, a toxic chemical that can damage DNA. It is literally a neurotoxin.
- Hormonal Changes: Alcohol can increase estrogen levels, which may promote hormone-related cancers.
- Nutritional Deficiencies: Alcohol can impair the body’s ability to absorb nutrients like folate, which is crucial for DNA repair.
- Oxidative Stress: Alcohol can generate reactive oxygen species that damage cells.
What Strategies Can I Use to Drink Less or Stay Sober?
- Write Down How Alcohol Impacts You: Reflect on how alcohol affects your mood, energy, and overall health.
- Use a Daily App Like Reframe: I’ve found apps to be a helpful way to track progress and stay motivated.
- Plan Drinks You Like: Explore non-alcoholic beverages or mocktails that you genuinely enjoy. I have tried: Seedlip, Recess, Curious Elixirs, Dirty Pelican, Apothekary
- Plan Activities That Don’t Revolve Around Drinking: Seek out social events or hobbies where alcohol isn’t the centerpiece.
Taking a step back from alcohol—whether for a month or longer—is an empowering way to prioritize your health and well-being. Whether you’re just starting or have already committed to Dry January, every choice to reduce your intake is a step toward a healthier you. You may find that it’s easier than expected to socialize without alcohol on board. That was one of my key take-aways. Most people assume you are drinking alcohol, so when I sip my seltzer with a twist of lime, it’s not the focus. You do you.