Also known as soda water or seltzer, sparkling water is a blank slate you can customize to your taste preferences. B-complex vitamins, particularly B12, contribute to a healthy metabolism. Your doctor may administer B12 shots or have you take B-complex supplements by mouth during your first few months of recovery. If you’re keeping up with this average (or less), the damage from alcohol is most likely minimal.
- However, in cases where withdrawal symptoms are overly uncomfortable or potentially dangerous, medical detox may be necessary.
- Our representatives can answer your questions and guide you toward treatment in your area.
- As one drinks more over time, these disturbances get worse and become more difficult to reverse.
How Alcohol Misuse Affects Nutrition
Some will eventually get broken down into less harmful compounds, but your body’s ability to process these substances is limited. To find another treatment program, browse the top-rated addiction treatment facilities in each state by visiting our homepage, or by viewing the SAMHSA Treatment Services Locator. Capsaicin is the component in the pepper that causes a burning sensation upon consumption. Capsaicin has also been shown to have pain-relieving and appetite-stimulating effects, both of which can be helpful in the early stages of withdrawal when many experience a lack of appetite. Aside from water, it can be beneficial to add hydrating foods into the mix. Fruits like watermelon, strawberries, cantaloupe, peaches, and oranges are all incredibly hydrating.
The Truth About the Health Benefits of Alcohol
- Both food and addictive substances present ways to escape from or numb unwanted feelings.
- Adequate glycine levels can help you can feel fuller, stronger, and more nourished.
- N-acetyl cysteine (NAC) is the supplemental form of cysteine especially useful for boosting antioxidants in your body and improving brain function.
- Our chef curates meals that not only satisfy the palate but also nourish the body, promoting overall well-being.
- Without it, you can have strong cravings, mood swings, and hostile behavior.
N-acetyl cysteine (NAC) is the supplemental form of cysteine especially useful for boosting antioxidants in your body and improving brain function. Look for supplements containing NAC if you are having trouble consuming enough whole foods containing cysteine. At ECHO Recovery, I’ve found great value in the education and recovery support we provide for those who are struggling with substance use disorder (SUD), including alcohol use disorder (AUD).
Nutrition to Help Your Body Heal in Addiction Recovery
Managing and treating pancreatitis early can help reduce the risk of these complications. If someone with alcohol-induced pancreatitis has severe symptoms or complications, they may need specialized medical care and treatment. I had a great time that weekend, even though I was the only sober one in the group.
- Steve Kobashigawa, a marriage and family therapist based in L.A., said that when you feel a craving come on, do what you need to do to get into a more positive headspace.
- Following a structured and nutritious meal plan can improve overall physical health, promote better mental well-being, and help individuals in recovery establish healthier eating habits [1].
- You can opt for a multivitamin or seek out individual supplements that contain omega-3, magnesium, zinc, and vitamins A, B, C, D, and E.
- Sunflower seeds are a source of protein that can not only boost your energy levels in a pinch but can also raise your dopamine, or “feel-good” hormone levels.
- Before we get started, you might be wondering what causes alcohol withdrawal?
- Critical examples include facilitating brain function, improving mood, flushing out toxins and transferring nutrients between cells.
The spicy chile mingles with the tart pineapple for an intense flavor, while the club soda tones everything down to a perfect drinking level. Depending on the extent of liver damage you have, you may need to completely abstain from alcohol in order to give your liver the best chance for recovery. Talk to a doctor about your personal history and what’s right for you. Just like a broken bone or infection needs time to heal, so does an overworked liver. While this depends on the amount of alcohol you have had over the years, your liver can see partial healing within two to three weeks, but this will depend on your health history. There are also certain foods like tea, fish and nuts that can benefit the liver’s function in many ways.
Need Help Managing an Alcohol Addiction?
As you evaluate treatment programs to assist in your alcohol detox and recovery, it’s important to look for a program that includes nutritional assistance and behavioral change as part best foods for alcohol recovery of the program. This will help support your recovery and ease your transition to a newly sober life. If you’re a heavy drinker, you may need to wean off alcohol to let your body adjust.