One of the lesser discussed aspects of substance abuse is its negative effects on nutrition. Most people suffering from addiction have a poor diet, a reduced appetite or even forget to eat for several days. The specialists at our Raleigh recovery center always make sure to focus on proper nutrition in substance abuse recovery programs.
Let us discuss the most important elements of this topic in more detail.
What Exactly Is Healthy Nutrition?
Food represents the main building blocks of our bodies starting with the prenatal period. A human being needs a combination of nutrients to maintain its main functions and energy levels.
A healthy diet should include all of the following:
- Vitamins: these micro-organisms keep our body working properly and are found in abundance in fruit and vegetables
- Minerals: our body chemistry needs tiny amounts of minerals such as iron, copper, magnesium and zinc
- Carbohydrates: found in pasta, bread and potatoes, carbohydrates are not the enemy, but necessary in balanced quantities to provide us with energy and give the brain necessary chemicals
- Protein: this is the stuff that builds the cells in our body and it is essential for the good functioning of the immune system
- Fats and oils: not all fats are bad for you – some of them are essential for the proper functioning of the brain
Last but not least, a healthy body needs a constant supply of water to replenish the quantity we lose through urine and sweating.
How Proper Nutrition Makes Substance Abuse Recovery More Effective
Various studies show that poor nutrition due to substance abuse actually ends up fueling the addiction and making the person less able to resist using these substances. When a patient starts a rehab program at our Raleigh recovery center, our doctors will also create a diet plan to revert the negative effects of poor nutrition.
The benefits are visible both immediately and in the long run:
Rebuilding the Body
Many people who abuse substances can be easily recognized by their gaunt body and emaciated face. Addicts often suffer from malnourishment and are not even aware of it. After just a week or two of proper nutrition, our patients start feeling stronger and are happy to see their bodies slowly getting back to their usual shapes.
This is also one of the first positive signs of recovery that family members notice when they come for therapy sessions together with their loved one.
Enhanced Neuroplasticity
Neuroplasticity is the ability of the brain to rewire itself. This is essential during addiction rehab, because patients are often suffering from a hijacked dopamine pathway. The only way of experiencing pleasure is by taking drugs.
By providing the brain with the nutrients it needs, it regains the ability to rewire itself and rebuild the normal dopamine pathway. This is why former addicts experience so much joy from the simplest things and hobbies.
Boosting Mood and Mental Health
They say that good food is great both for the body and for the soul. And this is a very profound truth. Returning to a balanced diet of necessary nutrients will solve some of the most common problems associated with substance abuse, such as anxiety, mood swings and depression.
This contributes to an overall sense of wellbeing, which helps regain a positive mindset and outlook on life.
Leave Substance Abuse Behind You at Our Raleigh Recovery Center!
The rehab specialists at our Raleigh recovery center believe that every single aspect of drug detox is important. Medicines, counseling and nutrition work together to help you stop craving controlled substances and enjoy a life of sobriety.
No one is beyond salvage and nothing is impossible if you have dedicated and experienced detox specialists on your side. Call us today to schedule an initial appointment and prepare to change your life for better. 984-223-5341!
