Nashville General’s Dr. Maliakkal Featured on WKRN News 2 to Talk Dry January

In a recent appearance on WKRN News 2, Dr. Benedict Maliakkal, gastroenterologist at Nashville General Hospital, shared expert insight into how reducing or eliminating alcohol — even temporarily — can benefit sleep, blood pressure, liver health, and overall well-being.

Watch the Segment

What Happens to Your Body During Dry January?

According to Dr. Maliakkal, individuals who regularly consume alcohol may notice short-term adjustment symptoms when they stop drinking. However, within one to two weeks, many experience significant improvements, including:

• Better sleep quality
• Lower blood pressure and heart rate
• Improved mood and emotional regulation
• Increased overall energy

“Alcohol is one of the most common reversible causes of high blood pressure,” Dr. Maliakkal explained. “When people stop drinking, we often see blood pressure and heart rate come down, along with improvements in sleep and emotional well-being.”

When Does Drinking Become a Concern?

Dr. Maliakkal emphasized the importance of why people drink.

• Social or celebratory drinking is generally less concerning
• Drinking to cope with stress, sadness, or sleep issues may signal a problem

“When people drink to feel good or to cope, dopamine in the brain reinforces that behavior,” he noted. “That’s when drinking can become harmful.”

He also cautioned that alcohol can worsen existing conditions such as fatty liver disease, diabetes, obesity, and hepatitis, where multiple risk factors may compound liver damage.

Why Dry January Has Gained Momentum

The rise of Dry January follows years of increased alcohol consumption during the COVID-19 pandemic, when many people were isolated at home. Dr. Maliakkal noted that sugary alcoholic drinks can make it easy to consume more than intended, often without realizing how much alcohol has been consumed.

“By the time someone realizes they’ve had four or five drinks, it’s already gone down very easily,” he said.

What Happens After January Matters Most

As Dry January ends, Dr. Maliakkal encourages reflection rather than a return to old habits.

He suggests asking questions such as:

• Why do I drink?
• What situations trigger it?
• Are there healthier ways to manage stress or socialize?

For those who struggle with sleep issues, depression, or health conditions that drive alcohol use, he recommends speaking with a medical professional.

Source: WKRN News 2 interview transcript and broadcast summary