Drug and alcohol abuse can damage your health and well-being. Living with addiction can make life unpredictable and chaotic. People with active addictions may not be able to care for their physical health by eating well. A lack of proper nutrition can lead to physical and mental health issues.
Nutritional counseling in addiction treatment can help people restore health and support long-term recovery. This article will explore how nutritional therapy can help people in recovery from addiction. You will learn:
- The effects addiction has on your body
- The benefits of nutritional counseling
- What foods to eat during the recovery process
- Where to find holistic addiction treatment programs
If you or someone you love lives with addiction or are in recovery, you are not alone. Contact the team at First Step Behavioral Health to explore our holistic approach to substance abuse treatment. Discover the impact of nutrition on recovery or schedule an intake assessment by contacting us today.
How Does Addiction Affect Your Body?
Drug and alcohol abuse can affect your physical, emotional, and behavioral health. People with addiction may notice the effects of poor nutrition in many ways.
Here are some of the most significant ways addiction can lead to poor nutrition.
Appetite loss
Certain drugs, including stimulants like Adderall and cocaine, may reduce your appetite. Drinking and using other drugs may also shift your attention away from eating well. Long periods of substance abuse can lead to significant weight loss and malnutrition.[1]
Unhealthy diet
Substance abuse can make other things, including nutrition, seem less important. People with an active addiction may not prioritize shopping or preparing healthy foods. They may rely on prepared, highly processed foods.[2]
Fast food and other convenience foods typically contain more saturated fat, sugar, or sodium than recommended. A diet high in processed foods can be hard on the body and can contribute to chronic health conditions.
Digestive problems
Long periods of substance abuse can disrupt GI functioning. People with addiction may suffer from digestive symptoms, including cramps and diarrhea. Over time, substance abuse can damage the digestive system. This damage may prevent the body from absorbing nutrients.[3,4]
Nutritional counseling can help people eat a balanced, healthy diet that may support better long-term health and well-being. A healthier body and mind can reduce the risk of relapsing and increase general health during recovery.
How Can Nutritional Counseling Support Long-Term Addiction Recovery?
Substance abuse can take a toll on your body in many ways. The effects of addiction, including a poor diet, can cause physical and emotional problems that complicate recovery.
Using nutritional counseling to promote healthy eating habits during recovery can benefit people by:[5]
- Helping to reduce cravings
- Stabilizing blood sugar levels for consistent energy
- Restoring nutrient balance in the body and brain
- Reducing pain, stress, and discomfort during detox and treatment
Participating in nutritional counseling can help people develop healthy habits that support health during detox and for the rest of their lives. It can also help address co-occurring eating disorders.
What Foods Can Help Support Addiction Recovery
Nutritional counseling focuses on helping each person recover from addiction. People in recovery may work individually with a nutritionist or attend support groups that focus on healthy habits.
Generally, certain foods can help you feel your best as you navigate detox and recovery. Here are some of the most important foods to include in your detox and recovery diet.
Protein
Protein is essential for energy and muscle growth. Animal sources of protein also contain fatty acids, iron, and vitamin B6. These include:
- Tuna and other fish
- Eggs
- Cheese
- Yogurt
- Meat (beef, chicken, lamb, pork)
If you eat a plant-based diet, you can increase your protein intake by eating vegetarian sources of protein, including:
- Beans
- Tofu
- Nuts
- Quinoa
- Whole grains
Adding more protein to your diet can help you feel full longer and stabilize blood sugar levels.
Carbohydrates
Your brain and body need carbohydrates to feel good and function well. Some great sources of healthy carbohydrates include:
- Whole-grain bread
- Potatoes
- Starchy vegetables
- Rice
Eating enough carbohydrates can help you feel satisfied and energetic all day.
Produce
Increase your intake of leafy greens, fruits, and vegetables. Add colorful produce to your diet, including:
- Melon
- Berries
- Cabbage
- Bell peppers
- Brussels sprouts
- Asparagus
- Broccoli
- Carrots
- Cauliflower
- Peas
Experiment with new ways to prepare veggies and fruits until you find something you love. Fruits and vegetables are excellent sources of hydration, vitamins, minerals, and fiber that can support good health during recovery.
Water
Staying hydrated is essential during recovery. Drinking more water can help you feel more energetic and maintain healthy sodium levels in the body.
Some people feel nauseated during different stages of recovery. If drinking water feels challenging, try sparkling water, herbal tea, or other sugar-free, non-caffeinated drinks. You can also increase your water intake by eating juicy fruits like watermelon and broth-based soups.
Find Holistic Treatment Now
Contact the First Step Behavioral Health specialists now to learn more about the benefits of nutritional counseling. You can also contact us with questions or to schedule an intake assessment.
References:
- Science Direct: Nutritional and metabolic alterations arising from stimulant use: A targeted review of an emerging field
- National Institute of Health (NIH): Nutritional status and eating habits of people who use drugs and/or are undergoing treatment for recovery: a narrative review
- NIH: The Gut Microbiome and Substance Use Disorder
- Springer Link: Drugs and Bugs: The Gut-Brain Axis and Substance Use Disorders
- NIH: The importance of nutrition in aiding recovery from substance use disorders: A review
