Food should do more than just taste good. Choosing a diet rich in amino acids gives your body the nourishment it needs to repair damage caused by drug or alcohol abuse. Think of proper nutrition as a key part of your recovery toolbox: working in tandem with counseling and other treatments to help you begin a life free from the burden of substance use.

What Are Amino Acids?

Amino acids are used as a source of energy by the body. Foods referred to as complete proteins contain all nine of the essential amino acids recommended for optimal human health. Eggs, milk, fish, poultry, and meats are generally classified as complete proteins, but vegetarians can get complete proteins by combining beans, lentils, and nuts with grains such as rice, corn, or wheat. For example, a peanut butter sandwich on whole wheat bread is a complete protein offering ample amounts of all the essential amino acids.

Benefits of Amino Acids for Substance Use

Intravenous amino acid supplements are becoming more common as a therapeutic aid for recovering addicts. The logic behind this approach is simple. Since amino acids help balance chemistry in the brain, supplements address the deficiencies created by addiction. However, studies show that including essential amino acids in every healthy, prepared meal is an excellent way to help your body heal—physically and mentally—after its battle with substance use.

Request NC Substance Use Recovery

At Red Oak Recovery^®, nutritional therapy is a key part of the recovery process. Situated on a North Carolina property tended by staff and clients, Red Oak produces a wide range of delicious farm-to-table fruits and vegetables, while chickens provide eggs that are rich in amino acids. Fill out our confidential contact form to speak with an enrollment counselor about taking the first step towards recovery, or to request more information about our young adult facility for dual diagnoses and chemical dependencies.