The Role of Nutrition in Addiction Recovery: Why It Matters
Alcohol use disorder (AUD) is a treatable medical condition. People struggling with AUD find it difficult to give up alcohol or control the quantity and frequency of consumption, despite its negative effects on health, relationships, finances, and career. Alcohol addiction is one of the conditions that come under the AUD spectrum (on the moderate to severe end). It is characterised by compulsive drinking and a negative emotional state when alcohol is not accessible or available.
By Dr Alexander lapa, a Psychiatrist at RehabGuide
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A variety of factors such as genetics, starting alcohol consumption at an early age, heavy alcohol use, a history of trauma, and mental health conditions affect an individual’s risk of developing AUD (or getting addicted). The good part is that, even though the problem may be quite severe, people with AUD/addiction can recover, and live a life free from the shackles of alcohol. There are a few challenges in the process of recovery. It is advisable for people with alcohol addiction to get help from experts at alcohol rehab centres. Trying to quit suddenly without guidance could be dangerous and may even lead to death.
For treating addiction, several evidence-based approaches are available. Because addiction depends on several personal factors, the treatment cannot be ‘one size fits all’. It varies according to the needs and circumstances of the individual seeking to attain recovery. Treatment may be inpatient or outpatient.
Along with medications, the individual on the path of recovery may also benefit from behavioural treatments (alcohol counselling) and support groups. Some other types of approaches such as pet therapy, exercise intervention, and nutrition therapy can complement the effects of standard treatment, accelerate recovery, and help sustain sobriety.
Effects of Addiction on the Human Body and Nutritional Needs
Alcohol does a lot of damage to the human body. It increases the risk of chronic diseases (such as cancer and cardiovascular diseases). Excessive consumption of alcohol also takes a toll on the liver. Heavy drinking can change the way the brain works and even looks. This can lead to problems with thought processes, mood, behaviour, coordination, and memory.
Misuse of alcohol puts immense strain on the body. During addiction, nutrition gets placed on the back burner because the body works hard to eliminate toxic substances. Alcohol affects the appetite in multiple ways. Even modest amounts of alcohol can lead to uncontrollable food cravings. On the other hand, heavy drinking can change the situation, and alcohol will then function as an appetite suppressant. Alcohol itself is high in calories but has negligible nutritional value. Frequent and excessive alcohol consumption causes undesirable changes in body composition and nutritional deficiencies. Poor nutrition can exacerbate the negative effects of alcohol on the body. It leads to fatigue, skin issues, dental problems, and poor sleep. One or more of these issues may instigate the individual to turn to alcohol even more in an attempt to self-medicate.
Often, while under the influence of alcohol, people make poor eating choices (such as unhealthy fast food and excessive sweets). Additionally, alcohol may interfere with nutrient absorption due to its effect on the gastrointestinal tract.
Proper Nutrition Supports Recovery
Nutrition plays an important role in addiction recovery. According to some studies, nutrition increases the chances of successful recovery. Additionally, some studies have shown that good nutrition helps sustain recovery over the long term.
Proper nutrition helps undo some or most of the alcohol-associated damage to the body. And, in this way, it helps restore physical and mental health. Nutrients support the body’s natural healing process. Eating well can help address nutritional deficiencies. A balanced diet can keep many diseases at bay. Healthy green powders can enhance the benefits of a good diet.
A good diet (along with exercise) can help the individual reverse the effects of alcohol on body composition. It can help get rid of excess weight, and significantly improve body image and self-confidence. These improvements can motivate a person to adhere more strongly to the recovery plan. Higher self-esteem due to a healthier body is bound to make a person unwilling to compromise recovery and fitness goals.
Good nutrition can enhance neuroplasticity. Omega-3 fatty acids promote mental health and may help restore cognitive functioning that was affected by alcohol. Vitamin B12 is crucial for creating new neural pathways and for proper neural connectivity. Antioxidant foods help protect the brain from damage caused due to free radicals. During addiction recovery, balancing macronutrients and micronutrients will support neurotransmitter replenishment.
Nutritional deficiencies caused because of excessive alcohol consumption worsen mood imbalance. Insufficient nutrient intake can increase depression and anxiety. Negative feelings can trigger a relapse. Fueling the body with good food helps lower stress and balance the mood. Certain types of food can uplift mood (such as selenium-rich food). Several components of food can boost the levels of serotonin, the natural feel-good chemical of the body. It is advisable for the recovering individual to have nutritious food in good company.
Meals prepared at home might be the best, with the recovering individual either helping in the preparation or cooking on their own (if condition permits). Preparation of the meal will keep the person busy and distracted from alcohol cravings, while the content of the meal (all ingredients and quantities) is clear. This can lead to mindful eating and healthier habits, which ultimately support recovery.
Wrapping Up
Nutrition can effectively complement standard addiction recovery programs. It can help restore mental and physical health, and a healthier body and mind can overcome the challenges of the recovery process more easily. Deficiencies cause various problems and impede recovery. Nutrition therapy can help the body heal and allow the individual to focus on the underlying cause of addiction.
Good nutrition will provide the strength required for a transformation of self and life. For holistic recovery, it is a good idea to include nutritional therapy in the recovery program. Doctors and nutritionists can help devise a personalised plan for each individual. Mindful eating will be beneficial even beyond the recovery process.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Dr Alexander Lapa
Dr Alexander Lapa is a Psychiatrist at RehabGuide - he graduated in Medicine in 2000 and is fully registered with the General Medical Council (GMC) in the UK with a license to practice.
He has extensive experience in several areas of clinical practice, including Drug and Alcohol Dependency and maintaining abstinence and continued recovery.