Why Do Dry January? All The Benefits From Weight Loss To Improved Sleep 01/01/21 AT 7:30 AM Alcohol use during the pandemic saw a rise as social restrictions left many people turning to vices as a coping mechanism. However, it’s dry January, and at least one study finds abstinence may have more benefits than you think. Analysis from the Center of Alcohol & Substance Use Studies at Rutgers looked at a 2013 survey from British magazine New Scientist that found a small number of heavier drinkers, those consuming as many as 63 12 oz. beers a week, saw health benefits from abstaining for a month.