There are a number of different foods that you can eat in order to help with alcohol detoxing and addiction recovery. Some treatment centers offer nutritional counseling or programs.

• Processed sugar—and foods that contain it—should be avoided as well, for the same reason.
• These symptoms can affect nutrient intake, electrolyte balance, and fluid preservation in the body.
• These guidelines are not meant to be a guideline, but they can help you get started.
• We publish material that is researched, cited, edited and reviewed by licensed medical professionals.
• Relationships with loved ones are often strained from addiction.
• And a study at a Waco, Texas, veterans hospital looked at people who’d been heavy drinkers for up to two decades.

I’ve also noticed that I respond well to homemade sourdough bread, which contains enzymes that pre-digest much of the starch. Lean protein may be a better choice than sources high in fat—so try fish, poultry, low-fat dairy products, or lean cuts of beef. From day one, Ria Health has offered support for the Sinclair Method—a medication-based approach alcohol recovery diet to moderate drinking or abstinence with a 78 percent success rate. Excessive drinking has numerous impacts on your body and mind, ranging from mild to severe. Learn which signs to look out for, and how to care for your well-being. Although staying hydrated in recovery is important, you should ask your doctor how much water is safe for you to drink.

Nutrition & Meal Planning

When individuals experience alcohol withdrawals, their brain severely lacks proper levels of dopamine. Unfortunately, long-term alcohol use has negative effects to this important hormone by causing normal levels to fall. However, for individuals in recovery and managing their alcohol cravings, fruits and vegetables play a very critical role.

Coupled with reduced physical activity, snacking while under the effects of marijuana often causes users to gain weight. The result can be an increased risk of diabetes and malnutrition. Enjoy fruits or vegetables with every meal and raw vegetables at least once per day. These proteins contain an amino acid called Tyrosine that is vital in the creation of neurotransmitters norepinephrine and dopamine. Here are some basics to remember when looking for foods that can help you recover from addiction. It’s important when trying any new exercise to warm up before you start and begin with a low intensity before increasing to something more strenuous. This will help you avoid injury and keep you healthy and able to continue exercising regularly in the long term.

The best foods for drug addiction recovery

People in alcohol detox often crave sugar because it leads to similar brain functions as alcohol, such as increases in dopamine, which results in a feeling of pleasure. Whole grains provide carbs without leading to large swings in blood sugar levels. They also contain fiber, which supports the digestive system and other functions. Chronic alcohol use can cause nutrient deficiencies, https://ecosoberhouse.com/ and fruits and vegetables are one of the best ways to restore these imbalances. They may also help improve your mood, boost your immune system, and even help with alcohol detox. Protein is an important source of long-lasting energy that helps function throughout the day. Your body needs protein in order to stay healthy, work properly, and improve your overall quality of life.

For breakfast, think eggs, which are high in protein and amino acids. Chicken and fish served with veggies are good choices for lunch and dinner—especially if the fish is a fatty one like salmon or sardines—and throw in beans or whole grains to round out the meal. Avocados, almonds, olive oil, fruit, and greens should also be on the list. Your level of dependence on alcohol will determine which vitamins you are most deficient in. The loss of minerals calcium, magnesium, zinc and magnesium can also be affected by alcoholism. Osteoporosis is more common in women who have been exposed to alcohol. Brazil Nuts – Brazil nuts are rich in a powerful antioxidant called selenium.

Protein for Alcohol Recovery

If you or a loved one deal with alcoholism, it’s an approach to consider. Although we would love to say that all fats are equal, it is vital to eat healthy fats. Two to four ounces of protein-rich meat or fish should be consumed twice daily. Even if you don’t eat dairy products often, calcium must be included in your diet.

Bedrock Recovery Center deploys an individualized approach that treats the underlying causes of addiction by placing our patients needs first. Located near the historical Boston metropolitan area in Massachusetts, our mission is to help individuals seeking treatment from substance abuse from all over the country.

The Bottom Line on Nutrition for Recovering Alcoholics

Some foods will contain extra sugar that is unnecessary — try to avoid those options. Surprisingly, your diet plays an important role in how your cravings for alcohol are maintained. Resisting alcohol is a daily challenge that requires strength and determination. Even with the right tools at hand, alcohol cravings always run rampant and need to be subdued. You should always check with your physician before making any dietary changes.