One of the key components of recovery from substance abuse is ensuring your body is well-nourished and hydrated. Numerous studies and organizations have indicated that substance abuse of any kind can not only lead to poor nutrition, but higher risks of diseases that can be chronic or fatal.
In light of March being National Nutrition Month, our professionals with Drew Horowitz & Associates have compiled a short guide that illustrates nutrition-based steps that can aid you in recovery.
- Hydrate –
- Water consumption is one of the most important and necessary components of a healthy diet. Make sure you’re consuming some both during meals and in between meals. Most substances often cause the body to become dehydrated, which is why water is such an important part of your nutrition during recovery.
- Sodas, caffeine, and other artificial beverages might seem like they contain enough water to sustain you. In reality, these items can lead to dehydration, blood sugar spikes and other challenges that make recovery more difficult.
- Be mindful of processed foods and sugars –
- Artificial sweeteners and most processed foods lack the healthy proteins, fibers and carbs needed for a balanced diet. Sugar in particular can produce too much dopamine and trigger the same parts of the brain that are activated during drug use. While it might be ok to occasionally consume as a snack, it’s important to be mindful of how much you consume and how often you consume processed or highly sugary foods.
- We believe it’s best to work with a dietician and determine what alternative snacks and meals you can consume instead of processed foods. Fruits, vegetables, whole grains and foods rich in fiber have a healthier nutritional value, which aids in the healing and recovery process.
- Understanding The Nutritional Value Of Your Foods –
- Substances often mean you haven’t been eating enough or eating too many foods that are not able to properly sustain your body. Being mindful about what you’re eating during recovery also means choosing foods that will give you strength, energy and help the body heal.
- Healthy fibers and protein can aid in rebuilding the body’s muscles during recovery. Complex carbohydrates can give you longer-lasting energy throughout the day. Reading through the nutrition label on your favorite products, establishing alternatives to processed foods, and understanding the value of certain meats, fruits, and vegetables in their whole form can help you better navigate during recovery.
- Consult With Your Physician About Vitamins And Mineral Supplements –
- Sometimes the malnutrition faced by someone struggling with drugs or alcohol cannot be repaired through food alone. Most recovery programs and practicing physicians will be able to provide you with the proper nutrition supplements that can help your body heal from substance abuse.
- These medical experts can also help you make informed food choices and develop physical activity habits that work well with your new diet.
- Balancing Diet & Exercise –
- Getting your body up to move each day, in addition to eating regular meals throughout the day, can make your journey toward normalcy even easier. Taking a 15 to 20 minute walk each day has been proven in numerous studies to have positive effects on most of your body’s organs. Nourishing yourself and finding an exercise routine that you enjoy can lead to a positive and long-lasting outcome.
We understand that pursuing good nutrition during addiction recovery can be incredibly challenging at first, but it will get easier over time. The key to starting good nutrition habits is to work with a professional that can help coach and guide you during treatment and after recovery.
At Drew Horowitz & Associates, our medical professionals take a niche approach to ensure you or your loved one’s addiction treatment program covers more than ending their substance abuse. Their well-being, which includes their nutritional habits, is just as important to us as their recovery long term. To learn more about the treatment services we can offer, please contact one of our treatment consultants today.
