The Importance Of Nutrition During Detox From Substance Abuse

Proper nutrition is an essential aspect of human health. Without it, individuals can be malnourished which can increase the chances of developing low energy, anxiety, and even depression. For those individuals in recovery, learning about proper nutrition is critical for their success in staying sober.

Substance Abuse And Malnourishment

Those suffering from alcohol and substance addiction very often lack the proper amounts of vitamins and minerals along with micronutrients and macronutrients in their diet. This is known as malnourishment. In many cases, addicts see the need to eat as a disturbance to their substance abuse, and will make poor food choices as a result. They choose foods that are easily available and quickly absorbed by the body: i.e. junk food, fast food, and sweets. Individuals who suffer substance abuse for a long period of time can develop the following health issues due to malnutrition:

• Damage to the lining o f the intestines: through this the body is unable to absorb vitamin B12 which prevents proper production of red blood cells and nerve cells. 
• Inability for the body to absorb vital nutrients: zinc, magnesium, folate, and calcium. 
• Show symptoms of anxiety, depression, low energy, sleep disruption, etc.  

Drugs and alcohol are closely interconnected with the way our brain functions, and the same must be said of nutrition. It is no coincidence that malnourished individuals in rehab very often exhibit stress, irritability, cravings, low energy, anxiety, and short attention spans.  

Medical professionals, such as doctors and nutritionists highlight the importance of proper nutrition during recovery in order to stay sober and detox. Also, by keeping a well-balanced diet, the chances of relapse into alcohol and substance abuse are greatly diminished in the future.

Nutrition For Substance Recovery

Nutrition education is a key component to individuals in recovery who look to heal their bodies from the prolonged negative effects of substance abuse. In many cases, addicts can have damaged organs, nerves, glands, and hormones due to malnutrition. Through better nutrition, those in recovery can benefit from:

• Better overall mood: higher energy levels, longer attention spans, better focus and memory. 
• Better immunity and organ repair from damage affected by substance abuse.
• Develop healthy eating habits for the future.

While in rehab, those suffering from substance abuse are taught the benefits of better nutrition and the impact it may have on their staying sober. In most cases, medical professionals highlight the importance of the following food items as being essential to proper nutrition:

• Healthy sources of vitamins and minerals: vegetables, fruits, beans, dairy, nuts, and whole-grain breads and cereals. 
• Healthy sources of carbohydrates: nuts, vegetables, beans, dairy, fruit, and potatoes.
• Good sources of fiber: nuts, tomatoes, carrots, apples, beans, oatmeal, and brown rice. 
• Healthy sources of protein: nuts, beans, eggs, fish, chicken, and dairy. 
• Healthy sources of fats: nuts, seeds, olive oil, fish and dairy.

If you would like to learn more about our nutritional guidelines for those suffering from substance abuse and poor nutrition, please contact us today and we will be glad to help you choose from our recovery options.