Gloucestershire County Council are encouraging residents to give up alcohol for January, rx and improve their health and wellbeing in the process.
Dry January is an annual campaign run by Alcohol Concern, which encourages people to take a month out from alcohol and enjoy the benefits, after the excesses of the festive period.
Evidence suggests that changing behaviour for a month can lead to longer lasting change and a number of benefits as a result, which is why Gloucestershire County Council are encouraging members of the public to sign up this year.
Last year, over two million people around the country took part in Dry January, with many raising money for charity in the process.
Alcohol Concern’s Dry January website has advice and information on giving up, as well as recipes for delicious alchohol free ‘mocktails’ and an online ‘impact calculator’, where you can work out the average amount of alcohol units, money and calories that a typical week’s drinking adds up to.
Sarah Scott, director of public health at Gloucestershire County Council, said; “Tackling the harm caused by alcohol is one of the Gloucestershire Health & Wellbeing board’s five priorities.
“Research by Public Health Action published in November revealed that one in three adults in the South West drink too much alcohol – but few realise it or understand the health risks.
“Taking a month off alcohol for Dry January can have a number of benefits, including weight loss, improved sleep, more energy, clearer skin as well as saving money in the process.”
Cllr Andrew Gravells, cabinet member for public health, said; “Lots of us will be spending time with family or friends over the New Year, and having a drink is part of that for many.
“But drinking too much in a short space of time can put a serious strain on your body, and put your health at risk.
“Starting the New Year with some time out from the booze can set you up for a far healthier and wealthier 2016, so sign up and give it a go!”
To sign up to the campaign, please visit www.dryjanuary.org.uk.