Addiction nutrition is the science of diet and health related to individuals with addiction. The challenge is finding ways to bring you the right nutrients, exercise, and support needed to keep your body health and acknowledge the challenges you face. This can have physiological and psychological benefits when you are able to eat healthy.

Risks of Poor Eating

Substance abuse and poor nutrition often go hand-in-hand, with one making the other worse over time. Nutrition imbalances can make cravings for alcohol and drugs intensify and worsen depression and anxiety. If you suffer with addiction, you may also struggle with mental health issues including depression. Not everyone does but it can wreak havoc on the mind and body. The chemicals in the brain may deplete and worsen the mental health issues. Sugar and caffeine are the most nefarious when it comes to causing problems with diet and health. They can even be a catalyst for relapse as the body goes on a rollercoaster of emotions and energy.

Whole Foods and Supplements

With proper nutrition and diet, you can get rid of toxic buildup in your body and decrease dependency on sugars and caffeine to make it through the day. You are likely depleted of vitamins such as A, E, and D and whole foods will aid in replenishing these along with aiding in your recovery. Basically, a healthy diet is described as one your grandmother would recognize as healthy food. Stay away from:

Frozen foods
Prepackaged foods
Increased sugar
Preservatives and artificial colors

Getting Started

Getting started is the hard part of trying a new, healthy diet. If you need help, the following are some good ideas to help you get started but should always be followed by a visit with a nutritionist versed in dealing with addictive nutrition.

Omega 3 fatty rich foods including fish
Fruit
Protein-rich breakfast foods including eggs, spinach, cheese, and wheat toast
Nuts including almonds and walnuts
Beans
Salad including lettuce, olives, dressing and protein like chicken

Of course, it is important to stay hydrated by drinking water and keeping up with your diet on a regular basis. You cannot get healthy if you only do it one day a week. It helps to find other people who will support you and keep you accountable while you develop these new habits.

Oceanfront Recovery provides space to heal and offers help in deciding how to put together a healthy eating plan. If you are struggling with addiction and nutrition, we are here to help you. Let us guide you with our resources and premier addiction recovery program designed with you in mind. Call us to get started: 877-279-1777