Participation in a voluntary alcohol abstinence program (Alcohol Free for 40) with tracking of laboratory values and physical metrics improves biometric measures of health; a three-year retrospective analysis

• DOI: 10.1101/2022.06.15.22276444
• Publication Date: 2022-06-16T22:45:17Z
• Authors: Amy K. Feehan; Megan B. Knapp; Jala Lockhart; Erin E. Arceneaux; Savanna Latimer; Anna Walter; Brittany N. Craft; Yvette P. Quantz; Hope Frugé; Maria Sylvester T...; David Galarneau; Molly Kimball
• Keywords: Turnover; Transaminase

Abstract Background Laboratory and physical metric data were available from participants of Alcohol Free for 40 (AFF40), a 40-day alcohol abstinence program in Louisiana. This study was performed to determine whether biometric changes detectable after days. Materials Methods retrospective review three cohorts AFF40 participants. Participant pre- post-program analyzed (n=113, 2019; n=105, 2020; n=344, 2021). The intervention self-directed, with social support. Changes liver enzymes, cholesterol, vitamin B12, weight, body fat, blood pressure measured. Paired t-tests used compare metrics. Results Retention rates participation 63% (113/179; 2019), 23% (105/449; 2020), 86% (344/400; 2021), despite the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic 2020 2021. Maximal average - 9 mmHg systolic pressure, -4.3 diastolic -5.7 pounds weight (all p<0.0001). Liver enzymes decreased; alanine aminotransferase decreased by 5.6 U/L, aspartate transaminase 4.8 gamma glutamyl transferase 8.7 U/L Vitamin B12 increased 54.6 pg/mL (p<0.01). Total cholesterol dropped 15.8 mg/dL (p<0.0001). Conclusion Participants programming support improved other factors during challenge. Highlights Programs voluntary have become popular around world (Dry January, Sober October) 40, post-Mardi Gras program, revealed significant reductions total just days Program retention high except due Dieticians healthcare practitioners can replicate individuals or groups who want improve metrics described this