Substance addiction can damage both the mind and body. Intensive outpatient and outpatient addiction treatment programs clients heal physically, emotionally, and spiritually. Detoxification and cognitive-behavior therapy help purge the body of substances and the mind of negative thoughts that cause destruction. As you’re “unloading” what’s weighing you down, you’ll also need to think about replenishing the things that you’ve lost to your addiction, such as good nutrition.
The Need for Nutrition Therapy and Planning
Drug or alcohol addiction and poor nutrition often go hand and hand. Reasons may vary:
- Loss of appetite & weight loss with drug use (cocaine, methamphetamine)
- Not enough money for drugs & nutritious food
- Organ damage due to alcoholism
- Nausea and vomiting from withdrawal
When you’re on the journey to recovery, you need your strength to follow through with your goals to reach sobriety. Healthy meals and if required, vitamin supplements prescribed by your doctor, can help you gain weight and make up for essential nutrient deficiencies. Top-ranked NC rehab facilities often include meal planning and nutritional consultation services in an integrative approach to treating addiction.
Research Backs Nutritional Therapy for Mental Health
Research shows that a healthy, well-rounded diet plays a valuable role in drug and alcohol addiction treatment, as well as co-existing mental health conditions such as depression and bipolar disorder.
One recent study suggests that vitamin D may have a protective effect on the brain of people who are addicted to methamphetamines. Vitamin D is safe for most people to take as a supplement; milk is also fortified with vitamin D if you do not have a dairy intolerance. Ask your doctor if vitamin D is appropriate for you.
Researchers have found that some people who have clinical depression also have deficiencies of vitamins C, B and omega-3 fatty acids. Eating foods rich in these nutrients, such as oranges, broccoli, whole grains, and salmon can boost your levels, and may help boost your mood.
As you progress work through your treatment program and follow a healthy diet, you’ll start feeling better and stronger—both physically and mentally. It’s important to remember; however, to talk to your clinician or physician about making major dietary changes.
Young Adult Addiction Recovery in North Carolina
Red Oak Recovery® offers a range of traditional and holistic addiction treatment programs for young men and women. Our individualized approach helps drive healing, sustained sobriety, and peace of mind in a way that’s right for each client, and we focus on nutrition and addiction throughout your stay. Call 866.457.7426to learn more about our facility, staff, and programs or inquire about insurance coverage for your addiction treatment.
