The Benefits of Proper Nutrition During Alcohol or Drug Recovery

Whether you are navigating the tricky waters of recovery for yourself, or if you are trying to help a loved one through a tough time, knowing how to nourish and care for the recovering body is an essential part of the process.

Many who are embarking a clean living sober lifestyle aren’t aware of the damage that can be done by addiction and abuse.  To get the body back in the right track involves awareness and changes to nutrition, helping the system to clear toxins and lingering chemicals.

So what does addiction do to the human body?

• It damages the liver, leaving the organ unable to do its primary job of filtering nasty toxins. Liver cancer is a possible result as years of abuse cause to liver to swell and become inflamed.
• It compromises the immune system.  Addicts will often suffer from ailments minor to more serious as the abuse lowers its ability to fight off even simple viruses and bacteria.
• It destroys appearance and in turn causes the user to feel self-conscious about their looks. Sufferers often notice bad & yellowed skin, weight loss, rotted teeth and reddened eyes. Some of these things are irreversible even after recovery.
• It stops the brain from making natural chemicals that induce positive feelings.
• It causes the user to become malnourished. Most users fail to eat properly and don’t get enough essential vitamins and nutrients. Chronic stomach issues are quite common amongst those in the recovery community

It’s is no surprise then, that many recovery centers focus on nutritional therapy alongside their other treatment schedules, offering individual consultations with dieticians and nutritionists to help combat the damage caused by addiction. For those who aren’t going through an addiction treatment program the same effects can be achieved at home, although be sure to run any new diet plan past your doctor first.

Nutritional support to assist in recovery:

• Load up on antioxidants from fresh fruits and veggies as they will assist in fighting free radical damage in the body. This will help internally as well as combat outward skin and hair issues. Foods: Broccoli, blueberries, apples & carrots etc.
• Go easy on carbohydrates like breads and sugars. These complex carbs have no nutritional benefits and make your body work harder at a time when it needs all the help it can get.
• Cut out the caffeine. There is a big reason why drug rehab center counselors advise that addicts should avoid caffeine; it makes the user have mood swings that frequently trigger cravings.
• Start eating easily processed sources of protein like chicken, fish and beans. People with little liver damage will find this can boost the liver functions.
• Eat small meals frequently to help stabilize blood sugar levels. This will keep mood levels consistent in an effort to avoid cravings.
• Add in some healthy fiber in the form of whole grains, beans and brown rice to get the digestive system working properly. Some people may consider taking a fiber supplement at this time also.

In addiction recovery there must be a mindset of healing the body inside and out. Nutrition is a vitally important part of the process. Call today to speak with an intake coordinator about your individual needs and look forward to a healthy, nutritious, and clean future at Right Path Drug Rehab.