
As often happens in the first month of the new year, vast numbers of Americans are attempting a "Dry January" or even "Damp January — " a trendy challenge to abstain or moderate alcohol use. You can be sure that those who succeed will see an improvement in their health, as alcohol is not exactly known for its health benefits. But how profound will these changes be, and will they even be that significant? Indeed, while heavy drinkers might see quick shifts in mood and energy, moderate or light drinkers might be apt to wonder if much will be different in their lives at all.
Salon spoke to experts about the short-term health benefits of moderating one's alcohol consumption for a month. As it turns out, time actually does play a big role in determining health benefits.