Published by Programme B
Being addicted to toxic substances such as drugs or alcohol takes a damaging toll on your body. Because you’re so dependable on these toxins, your body ends up not getting the nutrients it needs and is filled with these toxins instead. Going on a detox is step one of a full recovery and it goes hand in hand with a balanced and nutritional diet. Eating well might be the furthest thing on your mind when you’re recovering from an addiction, but it will actually help you during the recovery process and the terrible but necessary withdrawal symptoms that go along with it.
Addiction to alcohol and drugs causes many nutritional deficiencies, and during the detox recovery period, patients will exhibit both psychological and physical restorations to the body. It’s advisable not to go through detox alone. Take a page from the expert book on detoxing by enrolling into dedicated rehab centers, community health centers or even hospitals to guide you through it. Detoxing purges all the toxins from your body by restarting your digestive system and a balanced diet that includes vitamins, iron, omega fats, and calcium will smooth the process for you. Below are some good examples that will help you fight withdrawal symptoms.
Hydration is key
Alcohol dehydrates the body completely, and so a detox will require you to drink between 9-12 glasses of water each day. Hydrating well will allow the liver and kidneys to help release those toxins faster. Drink electrolyte-packed drinks and stay away from packaged fruit juices but opt for fresh juice instead. It will also get the vitamins you need back into your system.
Fruits and Vegetables are vital
With any balanced diet, fruits and vegetables provide the body with calcium, iron, and vitamins to get you through the day. Green vegetables like spinach, kale, lettuce, and broccoli are rich with iron and vitamin B. Bell peppers, strawberries, oranges, kiwi and pineapples are rich with vitamin C. Bananas provide you with potassium and regulates your blood pressure, while berries are rich with anti-oxidants. Fruits and vegetables are also rich in fiber which speeds along with your digestive system.
Stack up on the Protein
Protein helps with tissue and muscle repair, restores your organs, and stabilizes your blood sugar level which is extremely important for a recovering addict. Fish is an excellent source of omega-3 fatty oils that boosts your mood and fights anxiety and depression. Red meat, poultry, and pork are rich with iron and vitamin B. Plant-based proteins like beans, lentils, quinoa and soy are also rich with vitamins.
Energize with Complex Carbs
Complex carbohydrates are an incredible source of energy to get you through the day. Eat rice, beans, oats, and whole-wheat bread. They’re also rich in fiber which helps your digestive system get back on track. Try to avoid refined carbs like white bread.
Avoid Saturated Fat
Saturated fatty foods, which are found in junk food and processed food, are rough on the liver, thus delaying the release of toxins from your body. Eat food that is rich with healthy fat instead like nuts, avocados, fish, and oils like coconut or olive. They’re rich with Omega-3 which helps you fight depression and unnecessary cravings during your detox.
The Power of Dairy
Dairy products, like milk, butter, and cheese, don’t just strengthen your bones with calcium, but they’re also a rich source of vitamin A as well. Yogurt is a great source for probiotics that promotes a healthy digestive system as well as provide you with vitamin B. Milk can be also used as a calming effect to help you sleep at night.
Detox the Right Way
Purging your body from the toxins you were addicted to before is no easy feat, but it’s definitely manageable. Have a great support system from your family and friends along with the help of a professional to truly guide you on the path of recovery. Give your body the nutrients it really needs and by doing so, you’ll lead a healthier life.
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