For recovering alcoholics, supplements can help support their health as they recover from the physical and mental effects of alcohol abuse. During the journey to recovery from alcohol dependence, a balanced diet plays a crucial role in restoring physical health and Drug rehabilitation supporting brain function. Carbohydrates and fats are two macronutrients that are especially important in this process. Treating vitamin deficiencies caused by alcohol use disorder in early recovery can support both physical and mental health. Vitamin supplementation is a critical aspect of recovery from alcoholism. However, it’s also important to remember that a balanced, nutritious diet and a healthy lifestyle are equally crucial.
- However, while some studies support using certain supplements, it is important to know that not all directly impact alcohol withdrawal symptoms.
- Melatonin supplements can help reduce alcohol cravings by improving sleep quality and regulating mood, which can reduce stress-related triggers.
- However, each vitamin serves a specific function in your body and should be adjusted to your specific symptoms.
- Integrating a balanced diet rich in these nutrients can ease withdrawal symptoms, rebuild strength, and encourage a sustained recovery.
- Supplementing with magnesium can help replenish these stores, reduce stress and anxiety, and improve overall mood.
- That is why it’s important to maintain a healthy diet in early recovery, full of fruits and vegetables.
What Is the Best Diet for a Recovering Alcoholic?
Studies suggest that taking two grams of vitamin C can reduce toxic effects on the liver. Other recommended B vitamins include B6 and B12, which boost immunity and keep the blood vessels healthy. Nutrient deficiencies can contribute to developing or exacerbating depression and other mood disorders, as the body produces less serotonin7.
Long-Term Impacts of Nutrient Deficiency in Drinkers
Plus, there is a correlation between less nutritious food intake and alcohol intake. There are two different types of vitamins, fat soluble and water soluble. Fat soluble vitamins can be stored in the body while water soluble vitamins cannot. If you’ve either recently joined the road to recovery or have been beating addiction for some time, I first want to say- I AM SO PROUD OF YOU. Alternative to Meds Center does not employ a one-size-fits-all approach to addiction recovery. Our programs are orthomolecular-based, and utilize a wealth of psychological, physiological, social, and other support therapies that can be tailored to answer the needs of each client.
Diet for Recovering From Alcoholism
Additionally, vitamin C deficiency can aggravate symptoms of alcoholic liver disease. Dr. Samuel Lee is best vitamins for recovering alcoholics a board-certified psychiatrist, specializing in a spiritually-based mental health discipline and integrative approaches. He graduated with an MD at Loma Linda University School of Medicine and did a residency in psychiatry at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center and University of Washington School of Medicine in Seattle.
- A vitamin found in foods like fatty fish as well as naturally occurring in our bodies, Vitamin D is critical for building bone and reducing inflammation.
- Therefore, long-term alcohol use leads to lower nutrient consumption and can affect how the body uses this limited supply of nutrients.
- They also protect against psychiatric disorders including depression, mild cognitive impairment, dementia and Alzheimer’s disease (19-21).
- Unfortunately, if you have an alcohol use disorder, you’re at an increased risk of thiamine deficiency.
Balanced Recovery With Reframe
My mind has a tendency to jump around a lot, and theanine helps me “zero in” on what I’m doing. As I’ve discussed before, theanine can protect your brain from alcohol, increase your brain’s growth hormone, and lower your stress hormones. It’s known to produce a calming effect on the brain by crossing the blood-brain barrier and increasing the production of both GABA and dopamine in the brain. Unlike prescription anti-anxiety medication, it does not cause sedation and drowsiness (13, 14, 15). It’s important to point out that many prescription drugs are anticholinergic, meaning they reduce acetylcholine in the brain.
How Alcohol Misuse Affects Nutrition
Alcohol and poor eating can stop your liver from releasing glucose into your blood. Good nutrition also helps your brain rework old connections and make new ones. This can make it hard to stay away from alcohol while you’re trying to get better. Research published in 2022 found that individuals who were alcohol dependent had significantly lower levels of both zinc and magnesium compared to the control group. Alcohol use disorder (AUD) can lead to severe deficiency in several vitamins and minerals. Remember, sobriety is a journey, and with the right support, you can achieve long-term success and live an addiction-free life, without limits.
- Alcohol not only damages the liver but also weakens the immune system, making the body more susceptible to diseases.
- The responses to comments on fitrecovery.com are designed to support, not replace, medical or psychiatric treatment.
- When alcoholics are admitted to the emergency room, it isn’t uncommon for them to receive an intravenous dose of thiamine to prevent alcohol-induced cognitive deficits.
- Joining support groups focused on recovery and staying informed about nutrition and recovery through reliable sources are also effective ways to maintain a healthy diet during recovery.
- Inpatient programs offer healthcare, mental health support, behavioral implementations, and supportive activities.
Alcohol Withdrawal Symptoms: Detox, Timeline & Treatment
- WKS often results due to inadequate absorption of thiamine from the digestive system, a common consequence of excessive alcohol consumption.
- L-glutamine is another great supplement for anyone trying to reduce their alcohol consumption.
- Managing appetite changes by eating smaller, more frequent meals and being mindful while eating, such as avoiding distractions and chewing food well, are also key practices.
- Kudzu is a plant in traditional medicine whose flowers and roots are used to treat conditions like alcoholism.
Initial studies of citicoline and addiction have https://ecosoberhouse.com/ also suggested that citicoline can help reduce cravings, benefitting the recovery process. It can be an especially good alcohol recovery supplement for people with liver damage. Studies show that glycine is useful in treating both alcoholic hepatitis and carcinoma caused by alcoholic cirrhosis.