People observing “Dry January” voluntarily abstain from alcohol during the first month of the year. The practice has grown in popularity, and we suspect more than a few participants are counting down the days until February begins and the calendar becomes clear for resumed tippling.
Alas, the latest reports from the Party-Pooper File suggest that Americans would be better off if Dry January gave way to a “FebFast,” and so on throughout the year.
The damaging effects of alcohol abuse are well established, from drunken driving and other reckless behavior to a frightening list of health problems. Some new research suggests, however, that even moderate social drinking can increase the risk of cancer and other serious diseases. A regular glass of red wine with dinner, long considered a toast to health and happiness, might do more harm than good. So much for the most enjoyable aspect of the Mediterranean diet.
