Here is everything you need to know about nutrition and substance abuse.
Nutrition and Substance Abuse
Alcohol damages the body’s ability to transform nutrients into molecules that the body really needs. Excessive consumption of alcohol can deprive the body of vitamins and minerals. For example, a deficiency in Vitamin K may cause delayed blood clotting and can result in severe bleeding. Another example is that a vitamin B deficiency is not the primary cause of bipolar disorder, nor will everyone with a deficiency suffer from bipolar disorder. However, it is important to consider that increasing vitamin B levels can help to reduce some symptoms.
Other vitamin deficiencies can cause severe neurological damage. Mineral deficiencies can result in a number of health problems including calcium related bone disease, zinc related night blindness and skin lesions. For clients seeking treatment for alcohol addiction, we will identify any malnutrition or micronutrient deficiencies. When we know what to address, we can form a plan with food, nutrition and other necessary medicine to restore balance, which is why nutrition and substance abuse go hand in hand.
Drugs also clearly deprive the body of essential nutrients and can lead to severe malnutrition. Opiates (including morphine, codeine, heroin, and oxycodone) can cause gastrointestinal problems which may include nausea, diarrhea, and vomiting. This can result in a lack of nutrients and electrolytes, like sodium or potassium. With stimulants, like meth, crack, or cocaine, appetite is reduced and this leads to weight loss and poor nutrition. Long term use can result in permanent memory problems. There are of course, many other possible issues. Substance abuse is a disease that can severely destroy the body and mind. However, with proper help and treatment there is hope.
A better mood and mental state is a good defense against relapse in many ways, and is key in nutrition and substance abuse. It can encourage someone to engage in other healthy behaviors. As good food makes the body and mind feel better, physical activity will be something clients feel they can engage in. Being active can be a significant help in recovery. Overall, we want our clients to develop good nutritional habits that will reach every other area of their lives.
At Asana Recovery, we understand how difficult recovering from these addictions through our daily work to help those struggling most from this disease. While some may believe they can make it alone, rehabilitation programs are essential in the fight to break dependency. The road ahead is not a smooth or easy one, but you can traverse it if done so with the support of the right team. Counseling and aftercare processes can assist you by addressing the psychological facets that led you to addition and help you build a structure from which to better cope with life without succumbing to addiction.
The supervised detoxification and residential treatment programs at Asana Recovery are offered in a supportive, relaxing, and inspiring environment. We’re deeply committed to ensuring your long-term recovery, and guiding you on your path to a healthier and happier future. There is no better time than now, and we’re always available to speak with you. Call us at (949) 438-4504 to learn more about our comprehensive drug and alcohol addiction treatment program today.
