Thinking About Addiction Recovery
When most people think about substance abuse treatment and
Next, they likely think about substance abuse counselors working with a client, individually or in a group setting, or 12-step
Substance Abuse & Lack of Proper Nutrition
Substance abuse can cause a number of problems for those affected by it. Damaged relationships, job issues, financial problems and legal difficulties are some of the troubles that come along with it. Lack of proper nutrition is another, albeit less well known, issue plaguing those with substance abuse and
Someone who is actively involved in abusing drugs or alcohol is at higher risk for lack of proper nutrition for a number of reasons:
- Mental health concerns, which can lead to substance abuse or stem from the use of chemicals, can affect diet.
- The recurring cycle of drug use and abuse leaves less time and energy to shop for and prepare high-quality, nutritious meals.
- Certain types of drugs can lower or increase appetite.
Mental Illness Influences Diet
It’s not uncommon for someone who has a substance abuse problem to experience symptoms of
People experiencing anxiety or
Lack of Time or Energy to Prepare Nutritious Meals
Someone who is engaged in a
Drugs Have an Impact on Appetite
Stimulant drugs, such as cocaine, crack cocaine and methamphetamine produce feelings of euphoria in users. They also decrease appetite, making it difficult to be interested in healthy eating.
Opioid abuse also leads to reduced appetite. Opioids are powerful
Nutrition as Part of Substance Abuse Treatment & Recovery
Clients who enter a residential treatment program for substance abuse start their recovery process on a schedule that includes getting enough
Following a balanced diet during drug and
- It gives the body the nutrients it needs for energy to participate in activities and counseling sessions and to heal from poor nutritional choices made previously.
- Eating at regular intervals helps to stabilize blood sugar and mood. It’s also a good strategy for managing stress
- Clients who are introduced (or reintroduced) to good foods, prepared with care and attractively presented, may be less likely to have cravings for drugs and alcohol.
- It sets the foundation for a healthy lifestyle in recovery that includes eating a variety of nutritious foods.
Cravings in Early Recovery
In the early stages of recovery from substance abuse, clients may have difficulty reading the signals their bodies are sending them. They may not be able to tell when they are hungry, as opposed to experiencing a craving for alcohol or drugs. As they progress through their treatment and spend more time in sobriety, it will become easier to separate signs of hunger from cravings.
It’s important for clients not to turn their desire for alcohol or drugs into a craving for sweets instead. Eating sugary foods gives a burst of energy for a short time, but it doesn’t last. There are better ways to self-soothe than going for chocolate or cookies to deal with a craving, plus there is the possibility of weight gain to deal with.
Following a balanced diet, like remaining sober, is something that needs to be taken on a day-by-day basis. There are many rewards for eating well, and Great Oaks Recovery Center provides nutritious meals to clients as part of its
If you or someone you love is in need of alcohol or drug treatment, contact us anytime at (713) 769-0102. We are here to help.
Sources:
- CPE Monthly: Substance Abuse and Nutrition. Today’s Dietitian. Vol. 16 No. 12 P. 44.
- Nutrition in Recovery from Addiction. Psychology Today: psychologytoday.com/blog/food-junkie/201610/nutrition-in-recovery-addiction
- Social Anxiety and Alcohol Use: A Complex Relationship. Psychology Today: psychologytoday.com/blog/shyness-is-nice/201709/social-anxiety-and-alcohol-use-complex-relationship
- Alcohol: If you drink, keep it moderate. Mayo Clinic.