The Role of Nutrition During Alcohol Detox in Mesa AZ

We’ve all heard the saying, “You are what you eat.” When you are going through detox for an alcohol addiction, what you eat can certainly play a role in how you feel and how well your body and brain function. Maintaining a healthy diet is extremely important to have the necessary stamina to make it through the detox process. We’re going to share important information about the role of nutrition during alcohol detox and explore the services Hope & Healing Addiction Treatment Centers offers for alcohol detox in Mesa, AZ.

How Nutrition Impacts the Alcohol Detox Process

When someone abuses alcohol, it can lead to many nutritional deficiencies and impact the body’s ability to absorb and use essential nutrients.^[1] Deficiencies in vitamins A, B, C, and D, as well as minerals like iron, zinc, and calcium are common. If the body is low on these nutrients, it can make the detox process more challenging than it has to be.

Replenishing these nutrients with the right foods and a healthy diet can enhance a person’s well-being and help alleviate the withdrawal symptoms that can accompany detox. These withdrawal symptoms include:^[2]

• Upset Stomach
• Headache
• Confusion
• Anxiety
• Irritability

Eating a healthy diet during treatment can help reduce these symptoms, stabilize blood sugar levels, reduce cravings, and clear the mind.

Best Foods to Eat During an Alcohol Detox Program

If you want to build your stamina as you go through the alcohol detox process, start eating these foods:^[3]

Green Vegetables

Get your vegetables in while going through alcohol detox. They contain the Vitamin B needed to support the nervous system and help your well-being. Some green vegetables to add to your diet include broccoli, asparagus, and romaine lettuce.

Whole Grains

Whole grains are rich in Vitamin B and fiber. Their complex carbohydrates can help stabilize blood sugar and reduce the anxiety and irritability that can accompany alcohol detox. These foods can also improve mood and decrease cravings. Oats, whole wheat products, and brown rice are good sources of whole grains.

Berries

Berries contain healthy natural sugars, vitamins, and minerals that work well to give you energy and battle cravings. They are also high in fiber and work to regulate blood sugar levels. Blueberries, strawberries, and raspberries are all excellent choices.

Fatty Fish

Fatty fish contain essential omega-3 fatty acids, which have several benefits. They are also rich in protein and Vitamin D, which are necessary for the body to recover during detox. Omega-3 fatty acids are also shown to support brain health and reduce inflammation.^[4]

Complex Carbohydrates

Complex carbohydrates can help prevent mood swings and promote overall well-being by providing a steady supply of glucose to the brain. They are also a good source of fiber, which helps digestion and helps you feel full. You can find complex carbohydrates in beans, lentils, and sweet potatoes.

Nutrient-Packed Liquids

Foods like soups, stews, and smoothies can nourish your body and restore the damaged gut function that alcohol abuse can cause. These liquids are rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, which can help the body heal during detox.

Cayenne Pepper

Cayenne pepper has been used for many medicinal purposes and is known to ease nausea, headaches, and abdominal pain that can go along with alcohol detox. It also works to widen blood vessels and improve blood flow and circulation. Cayenne pepper is high in fiber, protein, potassium, and vitamins A, C, and K. You can add cayenne peppers to soups, stews, and other dishes.

Foods to Avoid During Alcohol Detox

While there are plenty of foods you want to add to your diet during alcohol detox, there are some you want to avoid. Sugar is at the top of the list. You may experience a strong urge to eat sweet foods during detox because they trigger dopamine, which is the same chemical messenger that substances can trigger.

You should also avoid ultra-processed foods, which typically contain unhealthy fats and are not nutritious. Donuts, cookies, and potato chips fall into this category.

How to Maintain a Balanced Diet While Detoxing from Alcohol

There are some steps you can take to maintain a balanced diet while detoxing from alcohol:

Meal Plan

You can think about what you will eat by planning and preparing your meals. You can look for meals that incorporate the foods you should be eating. When you write down your meals, you can better understand what you’re eating and make sure you hit all the essential foods.

Don’t Stock the Cabinet with Bad Food

If unhealthy foods are not around for you to eat, you’ll be less likely to eat them. Don’t have fatty foods around so that you won’t be tempted to eat them. Instead, surround yourself with all the healthy food you should be eating.

Ask for Professional Nutritional Help

If you’re having trouble eating nutritious food during alcohol detox, seek professional help. Ask for guidance about what to eat, how to limit junk foods, and how to develop positive eating habits.

Are You Looking for Alcohol Detox in Mesa, AZ? Contact Hope & Healing

If you’re looking for alcohol detox in Mesa, AZ, Hope & Healing Addiction Treatment Centers is here to help. We provide inpatient alcohol detox to help patients rid their bodies of alcohol while being medically supervised. Our team provides individualized assessments and a personalized alcohol detox plan to achieve success.

Contact us today to learn more about our detox program and other treatment programs aimed at helping you live a sober life.

Sources:

[1]https://alcoholthinkagain.com.au/alcohol-and-your-health/long-term-health-effects/alcohol-and-nutrition
[2] https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/alcohol-withdrawal
[3] https://www.webmd.com/mental-health/addiction/alcohol-use-disorder-nutrition-recovery
[4] https://www.medparkhospital.com/en-US/lifestyles/omega-3-health-benefits-of-nutrition