Thursday, April 25, 2024
Read on to know the correct nutrition for recovering alcoholics
Good nutrition can go a long way towards restoring your body and mind. But what a person from alcohol recovery should have? Are there any foods that can make recovery easier? Nutrition for recovering alcoholics has a lot in common with good nutrition in general. Here are five types of food that are especially important in the recovery from alcohol -
Healthy carbohydrates - Healthy carbohydrates are essential for providing your body the energy it needs to repair itself after alcohol addiction. Aim for complex carbohydrates, as these will help your blood sugar stay balanced while keeping food cravings at bay.
Some of the best sources of carbohydrates in a recovering alcoholic diet include:
Brown rice, quinoa, and other whole grains Oats Whole wheat pasta and bread Beans and legumesHigh-quality protein - Proteins are the building block of your body, whether that’s after a workout or after malnourishment from chronic alcohol use. It’s an essential part of a healthy diet for alcoholics who are in recovery. Lean protein may be a better choice than sources high in fat—so try fish, poultry, low-fat dairy products, or lean cuts of beef.
Fruits and vegetables - Chronic alcohol use can cause nutrient deficiencies, and fruits and vegetables are one of the best ways to restore these imbalances. They may also help improve your mood, boost your immune system, and even help with alcohol detox.
Add a few of the following to your diet:
Leafy greens, Berries like strawberries, blackberries, and blueberries, Cruciferous veggies, Citrus fruits like oranges, grapefruits, and lemonsHydrating foods - Getting enough water will help to improve your mood and detoxification process. Hydrating can also reduce inflammation from alcohol. If you have a hard time drinking plain water, try foods like smoothies, soups, fruits, and stews to ramp up your hydration. A bonus is that these foods are nutrient-dense (and easy on your stomach, too.)
Nuts and seeds - Heavy alcohol consumption can damage your brain. And since your brain needs certain fatty acids to function optimally, eating enough good fats is key in a healthy diet for alcoholics.
Some great sources of these healthy fats include:
Avocado, Nuts and seeds, Olive oil, Fish, including salmon, and tuna.These foods are an excellent source of thiamine and zinc, two nutrients that recovering alcoholics often need the most.
