As we learn more about the effects of alcohol on the body, interest in sobriety will only grow. This means many people will be seeing the first day of Dry January this week – and for good reason. In a 2016 study published in the journal Health Psychology, people who participated in the Dry January 1 program reported that they slept better, saved money, lost weight, had more energy, and were even able to concentrate better. A 2018 study showed improvements in insulin resistance and blood pressure. Although this practice was temporary, many participants reported that six months later they were still drinking less than before.
We all know the downsides of drinking alcohol, and sometimes alcohol has a bigger impact on your life than you think. Whether you want to rethink your relationship with alcohol or simply want to give your liver the rest it deserves, we have the tools to help you succeed.
Milk thistle is an Ayurvedic herb known for its protective effects on the liver. It can be found in liver detox supplements (such as Daily Detox+ from Mindbodygreen). It helps protect the liver and its essential functions by targeting free radicals produced when the liver breaks down compounds, part of the body’s natural and essential detoxification pathways. *
The detoxifying effects of milk thistle may also help counteract the effects of harmful toxins, such as environmental toxins, pollutants, and chemicals. *This powerful herb helps regulate and buffer liver enzymes, helping the body’s detoxification system resist modern environmental toxins. *
“Milk thistle helps remove toxins that accumulate in the liver and also helps repair liver cells damaged by increased exposure to toxins,” *Functional medicine practitioner William Cole, IFMCP, DNM, DC, previously spoke with Mindbodygreen Shared.
According to a 2015 antioxidant review, a phytochemical called silymarin found in milk thistle also supports the production of glutathione 2 (the body’s master antioxidant), which is absolutely essential for normal antioxidant detoxification. *In addition, according to a review of phytoecological studies, silymarin supports and helps protect the liver by acting as a toxin blocker (i.e., preventing toxins from binding to liver cells). *
Dry January itself has many benefits, from improving blood pressure to reducing biomarkers associated with serious health risks. But if you want to maximize the benefits of Dry January, consider taking a science-based milk thistle supplement like Daily Detox+, which also contains glutathione, NAC, selenium, and vitamin C. Your liver will thank you!