Today marks the first day of Dry July, an annual sobriety challenge designed to raise funds for people affected by cancer. Increasingly popular with every passing year, the initiative has sparked healthy development and self-reflection within every Aussie who takes part. 

But if alleviating the alcohol-induced strain on your wallet and liver isn’t enough to encourage you to challenge yourself to a sober month, perhaps one lesser-talked-about benefit may tempt you to give it a go. 

People often associate alcohol with confidence, fun and inhibition – qualities most aim to exude when getting down and dirty. But as it turns out, downing your drink before jumping into bed with someone could be hindering your efforts entirely. 

As dietitian Chloe McLeod explains, quitting alcohol, even temporarily, can lead to significant improvements in both sexual performance and enjoyment. “Alcohol can decrease libido and impair sexual performance due to its depressant effects,” she says, stating a reality we’ve all experienced at some point in our lives. 

“By cutting out alcohol, you may experience increased sensitivity and arousal, improved stamina, and better overall sexual health,” McLeod adds. “Additionally, the improved physical and mental well-being from sobriety can lead to enhanced intimacy and connection with your partner.”

And the health benefits of sobriety don’t stop at better sex, either.

The wider health benefits of quitting alcohol

Even temporarily, giving up alcohol can encourage a diverse range of positive health effects, lowering your risk of developing chronic diseases such as cardiovascular disease and certain types of cancer, as well as maintaining a healthy weight. 

Some internal benefits include improved liver function, better digestion, enhanced nutrient absorption, and more efficient metabolism, with prolonged sobriety also linked to improvements in skin health and appearance, better sleep quality, and boosted energy levels.

When will the health benefits kick in?

If saying farewell to your favourite bottle or red forever seems a little unrealistic, there are still so many benefits to temporarily abstaining from alcohol for a prolonged period of time, says McLeod. 

“A one-month challenge like Dry July can be incredibly beneficial,” she explains. “It gives your body a break from the toxic effects of alcohol, allowing for detoxification and recovery. Many people find they sleep better, have more energy, and feel mentally clearer after a month without alcohol.”

Plus, unlike some popular wellness trends, the dietitian says the benefits of temporary or permanent sobriety can be felt relatively quickly, “Some benefits, such as improved sleep and increased energy, can be noticed within a few days to a week,” she says. “Other benefits, like better skin and digestion, might take a couple of weeks.”

“More significant health improvements, such as better liver function and reduced risk of chronic diseases, can develop over the course of a month and beyond,” she adds. 

There's never been a better time to embrace a sober lifestyle

In the last few deceased, Australia’s once dominant drinking culture has evolved substantially, creating a boom in more health-conscious, non-alcoholic alternatives for people who have embraced sobriety. While it of course means you'll likely find an impressive list of mocktails at any bar you go into, it also indicates there’s never been a better time to test the waters of life without alcohol. 

“The rise in high-quality non-alcoholic alternatives makes it easier than ever to enjoy social occasions without drinking,” says McLeod. “Additionally, there's a cultural shift happening, especially among younger generations, towards healthier lifestyles and reduced alcohol consumption. This supportive environment can make the transition to sobriety more seamless and socially accepted.”