Gut Health & Addiction Recovery: Can Probiotics Curb Cravings?

Gut health plays a powerful role in addiction recovery—because your gut and brain are directly connected through the gut-brain axis. Trillions of gut bacteria produce neurotransmitters (like dopamine and serotonin) that influence your mood and cravings. They also create short-chain fatty acids like butyrate that strengthen the gut lining and support your nervous system and brain function.

When your microbiome is balanced, it regulates mood and stress, supports immunity, and keeps the brain’s reward system in check. But when it’s not (gut dysbiosis), it can spell trouble.

Gut Dysbiosis in Substance Use Disorders

It’s now well established that addiction affects the brain and also disrupts the gut. People with substance use disorders (SUDs) often show significant changes in their gut microbiome composition.

Generally, there is a decrease in beneficial, “healthy” bacteria and an overgrowth of pro-inflammatory microbes. For example, studies find lower levels of friendly bacteria that produce essential metabolites (like SCFAs) and higher levels of harmful species (such as certain Proteobacteria) in those abusing drugs or alcohol.

With fewer protective microbes, the intestinal wall can become more permeable (leaky), leading to increased inflammation throughout the gut and body. Chronic substance use often leads to gut inflammation and a weakened intestinal barrier. A leaky gut allows bacterial toxins to escape into the bloodstream and trigger immune responses, and those inflammatory cytokines can travel to the brain. This immune activation may disrupt the brain’s reward circuits and worsen anxiety and depression, intensifying cravings.

It can become a vicious cycle: substance use damages the gut, and the resulting inflammation drives stronger urges to use the substance as a form of self-medication.

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Leaky Gut, Mood Disorders, and Cravings

Growing evidence links leaky gut syndrome to worse outcomes in addiction. One study of alcohol-dependent patients found that those with leaky gut had much higher anxiety, depression, and alcohol cravings, and were more likely to relapse after detox. This group also showed more unhealthy gut bacteria, suggesting that microbial imbalance and gut permeability drive up inflammation and intensify cravings. Toxins escaping from a leaky gut (like LPS) can reach the brain’s reward and stress centers, amplifying negative moods and lowering the threshold for relapse.

Opioid addiction shows a similar gut-brain connection. Chronic opioid use disrupts the gut (opiate users often suffer constipation and dysbiosis), and animal studies show long-term morphine can cause a leaky gut and brain inflammation, worsening tolerance and withdrawal symptoms.

Intriguingly, transferring gut microbes from morphine-dependent mice to healthy mice transferred opioid tolerance, indicating gut bacteria help mediate the body’s adaptation to opioids. Conversely, transplanting healthy microbiota into dependent mice reduced the severity of withdrawal. While more research is needed, this suggests that healing the gut could ease some of the physical and mental anguish of opioid withdrawal.

Many people in recovery notice intense sugar cravings, and the gut may be partly to blame. Sugar activates the same brain reward pathways as drugs, and an imbalanced microbiome can heighten a sweet tooth as the body seeks quick dopamine hits.

A recent study found that people with intense sugar cravings often lack a key gut bacterium (Bacteroides vulgatus) that helps regulate appetite. Without it, the signal for fullness is weaker, leading to more intense cravings. On the flip side, frequent sugar binges can further disrupt the gut microbes and increase inflammation, potentially worsening mood swings and cravings over time.

Can Probiotics and Fermented Foods Curb Drug Cravings?

With the gut so deeply intertwined with mood and addiction, an exciting area of research is whether improving gut health can aid in recovery. Probiotics (supplements or foods containing beneficial live bacteria) and fermented foods (like yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, and kimchi) are front and center in this discussion.

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These foods introduce helpful microbes and nutrients that can restore balance in an unhealthy microbiome. Scientists have already seen promising results in early studies: one study found that a probiotic mixture rich in Bifidobacteria and Lactobacillus strains reversed opioid tolerance in morphine-dependent mice.

In an alcohol use disorder clinical trial, patients who received a fecal microbiota transplant (FMT) from a healthy donor (with high levels of Lachnospiraceae and Ruminococcaceae bacteria) had a 90% reduction in alcohol cravings, compared to only 30% in the placebo group. These examples illustrate that boosting the presence of beneficial gut bacteria can directly influence the brain and behavior, reducing the drive to seek out substances.

How Do Probiotics and Fermented Foods Achieve These Effects?

A big part of the answer lies in reducing inflammation and repairing gut-brain communication. Certain probiotic strains produce anti-inflammatory substances and help seal up a leaky gut barrier, lowering the production of those harmful cytokines that can impair mood and decision-making. For example, restoring butyrate-producing bacteria (common in fermented, fiber-rich foods) nourishes the gut lining and calms the immune system.

Probiotics also synthesize neurotransmitters and neuromodulators – Lactobacillus rhamnosus, for instance, can produce GABA (a calming brain chemical) and has been shown to reduce anxiety and alcohol intake in some studies. A healthier gut microbiome can improve mood, reduce stress, and even enhance cognitive function in recovery by raising feel-good neurotransmitters and reducing inflammatory signals. It’s important to remember that probiotics are supportive tools, not standalone cures.

Nutrition Tips for a Gut-Healing Recovery

A holistic, gut-friendly diet can be a powerful adjunct to traditional addiction treatment. Here are some science-backed nutrition tips to support your gut and overall health during recovery:

Eat Plenty of Fiber

Vegetables, fruits, beans, and whole grains contain prebiotic fibers that nourish good gut bacteria. Mix at least half your plate with colorful produce and include high-fiber foods at each meal. Eating healthy foods rich in fiber helps your microbes produce beneficial compounds that reduce inflammation and heal your gut lining.

Add Fermented Foods

Aim for at least one fermented food daily. Options include live-culture yogurt or kefir, raw sauerkraut or kimchi, miso, or kombucha. These foods deliver probiotics that crowd out harmful microbes and support a healthy balance in your gut. Even a few forkfuls of fermented veggies or a cup of yogurt daily can help repopulate your gut with beneficial bacteria.

Consider Probiotic Supplements

In early recovery, a high-quality probiotic supplement (with strains of Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium) can help re-seed your gut with beneficial microbes. This may stabilize mood and potentially reduce cravings. Always consult your healthcare provider about the right probiotic regimen for you.

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Choose Lean Proteins and Healthy Fats

Include proteins like fish, poultry, or legumes to supply amino acids that support your brain’s neurotransmitters. Pair them with healthy fats – especially omega-3s from fish, flaxseed, or walnuts – which help reduce inflammation in the gut and brain. Omega-3s have even been linked to reduced drug-seeking behavior in animal studies.

Limit Sugar and Processed Foods

Refined sugar and junk food feed the wrong kind of bacteria in your gut, worsening inflammation and dysbiosis. They also cause blood sugar spikes and crashes that can trigger mood swings and cravings. Opt for naturally sweet whole foods (fruit, sweet potatoes) when you need a treat, and save desserts or sugary drinks for occasional indulgences.

Stay Hydrated and Sleep Well

Drinking enough water supports digestion and detoxification. Aim for 7–9 hours of sleep per night, since poor sleep can disrupt the gut microbiome and increase stress hormones that drive cravings. Consistent rest and hydration allow your body to repair the gut and restore balance.

Manage Stress

Mental stress can disrupt your gut barrier and microbiome. Practice mindfulness, deep breathing, yoga, or regular exercise to control stress. Reducing stress improves your mood, increases beneficial gut bacteria, and lowers inflammation. A calmer mind and a healthier gut together mean fewer anxiety-driven urges to relapse or binge.

A Holistic Path to Lasting Recovery

Integrating gut healing into addiction treatment offers a powerful, science-backed layer of support. As research continues to confirm the connection between the microbiome and mental health, more recovery programs are embracing nutrition and probiotic support as part of a whole-person approach. This added focus on physical wellness can make emotional healing more sustainable and recovery more successful.

If you’re ready to take a more holistic path to sobriety, More Than Rehab can help. Our team supports your recovery with personalized care that treats the mind and body. Reach out today and take the next step toward lasting wellness.

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Navigating the Winter Blues in Addiction Recovery

Around 14% of the adult population in the US experience the winter blues every year. According to experts at the National Institute of Mental Health, the condition is fairly common and is often marked by irritability, lethargy, overeating, feeling down and unsociable and sleep problems. A small percentage of people also experience a more severe medical disorder called seasonal affective disorder (SAD) during the winter months.

Winter blues can be tough on anyone, but they are particularly difficult for those in addiction recovery. The cold weather, coupled with shorter days and lack of sunlight can exacerbate feelings of isolation, depression, and cravings, as well as negative thoughts. Luckily, there are many strategies to help you stay strong and navigate this challenging season. We’ll discuss these in the article, but first, let’s explore the unique challenges that winter poses to individuals in recovery.

Unique Challenges of Winter for Individuals in Recovery

Scientists believe that shorter days and less sunlight can trigger chemical changes in the brain. This explains, in part, why people have winter blues or feel down when days get shorter in winter and fall and feel better in the spring when longer daylight hours return. In some cases, these changes in mood are serious and affect how one thinks, acts or feels.

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With that said, here are some challenges that those in recovery face during winter:

Disrupted Circadian Rhythm

The shorter days and reduced sunlight of winter disrupt the body's natural sleep-wake cycle, known as the circadian rhythm. This throws off the production of hormones like melatonin and cortisol, which regulate sleep, mood, and energy levels. As a result, you may experience difficulty falling or staying asleep, mood disorders, and difficulty concentrating and staying motivated.

Increased Social Isolation

Winter weather often keeps people indoors and discourages outdoor activities, leading to increased social isolation. This can exacerbate feelings of depression and loneliness, which are common triggers for relapse. Limited access to support groups and activities also means difficulty connecting with others and may lead to unhealthy coping mechanisms like substance abuse.

Social Challenges

The holiday season, while festive, can be a double-edged sword for those in recovery. On the one hand, it provides opportunities for connection and joy, but on the other, the social aspect that involves drinking alcohol or using drugs can trigger cravings and relapse risks. The holidays can also bring stress due to increased social obligations, financial pressures, and expectations.

Family Dynamics and Holiday Pressures

For some, the holiday season may bring back memories of past family conflicts or unresolved issues. Such situations are emotionally challenging and can impact one’s mental state. Besides, there are the expectations and pressures surrounding family dynamics. The weight of maintaining certain traditions or meeting perceived standards may cause stress and anxiety, potentially becoming triggers for relapse.

Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)

SAD is a more severe form of winter-related mood disturbance. It starts and ends at about the same time each year, with symptoms peaking in the fall and continuing all the way into the winter months. SAD saps energy, triggers seasonal depression and leaves one feeling moody and tired – all which can pose additional challenges in recovery.

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Strategies for Coping With the Winter Blues

Light therapy can be a great solution for SAD. However, there are several other strategies you can consider for coping with winter challenge:

Regular Exercise

Exercise is the easiest way to deal with winter challenges. Many studies have linked it to improved mood, energy and, most importantly, SAD symptoms. And it doesn’t have to be intense or structured – just find something you enjoy doing, whether it's walking, jogging or even winter sports like ice skating, skiing, or snowboarding. 

Connect With Your Support Group

Regular meetings or calls with your recovery group can help you weather the storm. Group members understand what you're going through and can encourage and support you through it. It’s also great to surround yourself with loved ones who understand your journey and offer encouragement.  

Seek Out Sunlight

Maximize your exposure to natural light, even if it's just for a short period. Open curtains, spend time outdoors when possible, or use a light therapy box to help regulate your circadian rhythm and improve mood.

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Engage in Enjoyable Activities

Make time for hobbies and activities you find relaxing and fulfilling. Listening to music, reading, spending time in nature, or pursuing creative endeavors can boost your mood and overall well-being.

Practice Mindfulness

Mindfulness exercises help you stay present in the moment and avoid dwelling on negative thoughts or worries. Focusing on your breath, bodily sensations, or surrounding environment can help reduce stress and anxiety.

Additional Tips

Reach Out to Your Therapist

Consider seeking professional guidance from your therapist. They can provide personalized support, teach coping mechanisms, and adjust your addiction treatment plan as needed to address winter-specific challenges.

If you’re still having a hard time staying off substances or are dealing with mental health issues like bipolar disorder, stress, anxiety, etc., experts at More Than Rehab can help. We know how tough a dual diagnosis can be, so we are ready to provide integrated treatment to address the substance use disorder and the underlying behavioral health conditions together at the same time.

With the right support, winter blues can become a fleeting chill, a mere blip in your journey towards lasting recovery. Embrace the light within you, and know that spring is just around the corner, ready to bathe you in its warmth once again. Together, we can navigate the winter blues and step into a brighter future.

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Incorporating Mindfulness Practices into Addiction Recovery

Mindfulness can be a powerful tool to enhance your recovery journey from substance abuse. Recently, the transformative power of mindfulness practices in supporting individuals on their path to recovery is being recognized. In fact, a study made public by the National Institutes of Health revealed that mindfulness training is a promising intervention option for SUDs and relapse prevention. 

Understanding Mindfulness Practices

The practice of mindfulness is defined as paying attention to the present moment with open-mindedness and without judgment. So basically, you:

At its core, mindfulness invites you to direct your focus to the present moment without judgment or attachment to the past or future. Through meditation, yoga, mindful eating, and other therapeutic strategies, you can cultivate a deep connection with your internal experiences—the sensations in the body, the flow of thoughts and emotions, and the subtleties of the surrounding environment.

The American Psychological Association, finds mindfulness reduces stress, rumination, and emotional reactivity and boosts focus, cognitive flexibility, and working memory. You can effectively self-regulate when you train yourself to be more aware and attentive. 

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In the context of addiction recovery, mindfulness plays a vital role in several key areas: 

Managing Cravings and Urges

Mindfulness allows you to observe cravings and urges without immediately acting upon them. The non-reactive awareness of these sensations and emotions allows you to create space for conscious decision-making and choose a response that aligns with your recovery goals.

Stress Reduction

Addiction recovery can come with high levels of stress and anxiety. Mindfulness like meditation and deep breathing exercises help activate the relaxation response, promoting a sense of calm and reducing the physiological and psychological impact of stress.

Emotional Regulation

Addiction often involves difficulties in managing and regulating emotions. Mindfulness cultivates emotional intelligence by fostering an awareness of your emotions in the present moment. This heightened awareness allows you to respond to emotions more skillfully and make choices that align with your long-term well-being.

Increase Self-Awareness

Mindfulness practices encourage you to observe your thoughts, beliefs, and behavior patterns. This increased self-awareness helps identify triggers, underlying emotional issues, and negative thought patterns contributing to addictive behaviors, paving the way for effective coping strategies and personal growth.

Examples of Mindfulness Exercises

Here are detailed descriptions of various mindfulness exercises that can be beneficial for individuals battling addiction:

Meditation

Meditation involves sitting quietly and focusing on something specific, such as your breath, a mantra, or a visual image. Meditation cultivates a calm and centered mind, reduces stress, and develops greater self-awareness. This heightened awareness can help you observe your cravings, emotions, and thought patterns without immediate reactivity, allowing you to make conscious choices in your recovery journey. Here's how to meditate:

Yoga

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Yoga combines physical postures, breath control, and meditation to promote physical and mental well-being. The gentle movements and focus on the breath in yoga can help you reconnect with your body, release tension, and promote a sense of inner balance. Yoga can also enhance body awareness, which is particularly helpful in recovery as you develop a healthier relationship with your body and physical sensations. Here's how to practice yoga:

Mindful Eating

Mindful eating focuses on your eating experiences, body-related sensations, and feelings and thoughts about food, with heightened awareness and without judgment. When you savor each bite and pay attention to hunger and fullness cues, you can develop a healthier relationship with food. Mindful eating helps cultivate a non-judgmental attitude towards eating, promotes self-control, and supports you in making conscious choices about your nutrition and overall well-being. Here's how to practice mindful eating:

Mindful Breathing

Mindful breathing is a simple yet powerful practice that involves focusing your attention on the sensations of your breath as it flows in and out of your body. This practice helps anchor you to the present moment, promoting relaxation and reducing stress. You can practice mindful breathing anywhere and anytime to manage cravings, reduce anxiety, and bring a sense of calmness to the mind and body.

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Body Scan

The body scan systematically brings awareness to each body part, from the feet to the head. It helps you develop a deeper connection with your body and tune in to physical sensations, such as tension, discomfort, or relaxation. Body scan promotes body awareness and relaxation and can be particularly useful when you've suppressed or disconnected from your bodily experiences. Here's how to do a body scan:

Incorporating these mindfulness exercises into addiction recovery programs can arm you with practical tools for managing cravings, reducing stress, enhancing emotional regulation, and cultivating self-awareness. Remember that consistency and practice are key to reaping the full benefits of these mindfulness practices.

If you need help navigating your recovery, you might benefit from More Than Rehab. We recognize the importance of holistic care in recovery. Our programs go beyond just addressing the physical aspects of addiction and integrate mindfulness practices like meditation, yoga, and mindful breathing, to support individuals on a deeper level. With our personalized treatment approach, we tailor our programs to meet your unique needs and goals, providing you with the tools and support necessary for a successful recovery journey.

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Examining Holistic Approaches to Addiction Recovery

Addiction is a complex and multifaceted disease that affects millions of people worldwide. It impacts the individual's physical health and mental, emotional, and social well-being. Traditional approaches to addiction recovery focus on treating the physical symptoms of addiction. But they often neglect the underlying psychological and emotional factors contributing to addiction. That's why many rehab centers now integrate holistic approaches to addiction recovery.

Holistic therapy recognizes that addiction is not just a physical disease but a disease of the mind, body, and spirit. It seeks to address the underlying causes of addiction by taking a comprehensive and integrated approach to treatment. This includes managing the individual's physical, emotional, and spiritual needs and any underlying mental health issues or trauma.

This article will explore some of the most common holistic approaches to addiction recovery. We will also discuss the benefits of a holistic approach and how it can complement traditional addiction treatment methods.

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Understanding Holistic Approach to Addiction Recovery 

Holistic therapy is an approach to treating addiction that addresses the whole person, including their physical, social, emotional, spiritual, and intellectual well-being. It focuses on one's overall well-being while treating symptoms of substance use disorders, including withdrawal symptoms and health conditions that develop while using drugs or alcohol. 

Holistic addiction therapy can involve various techniques and practices, including mindfulness meditation, yoga, acupuncture, massage therapy, nutritional counseling, and other alternative therapies. These techniques aim to help the individual in recovery to heal their body, mind, and spirit.

Traditional approaches to addiction treatment typically focus on detoxification and abstinence. But holistic therapy seeks to help individuals in recovery develop a more balanced and healthy lifestyle. This may involve learning coping skills to manage stress and emotional triggers, improving nutrition and exercise habits, and building a support system for friends and family members. 

Holistic therapy can work in conjunction with traditional approaches to addiction treatment, such as medication-assisted treatment, behavioral therapy, and 12-step programs. By combining traditional techniques with holistic therapies, individuals in recovery may achieve greater success in overcoming addiction.

Holistic Approaches to Addiction Recovery

Alternative therapies such as acupuncture, yoga, Tai Chi, and mindfulness meditation have recently gained popularity as complementary treatments for addiction recovery. These holistic approaches aim to address the whole person's physical, emotional, and spiritual needs and support their long-term recovery from addiction. Here are some examples of holistic practices and their potential role in supporting long-term recovery from alcohol and drug addiction:

Massage and Acupuncture

These holistic therapies focus on using touch and pressure on specific points in the body to promote relaxation and alleviate physical and emotional tension. Massage can help reduce muscle tension, improve circulation, and promote relaxation. Acupuncture involves the insertion of needles into specific points of the body to stimulate the nervous system and release natural painkillers. Both these therapies have been shown to be effective in reducing symptoms of anxiety, depression, and stress, which are common triggers for relapse in addiction.

Nutritional Therapy

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Nutritional therapy involves using specific diets, supplements, and lifestyle changes to support the body's natural healing processes. Many individuals struggling with addiction may have poor diets, nutritional deficiencies, or imbalances that can contribute to physical and emotional instability. Nutritional therapy can help address these imbalances, improve overall health, and support long-term recovery.

Exercise and Recreational Therapy

Exercise and recreational therapy involve physical fitness and activity, such as individual and team sports, tai chi, dance, or other forms of movement that can help improve mood, relieve stress, and promote physical health. Regular exercise effectively reduces cravings, improves sleep, and reduces symptoms of anxiety and depression, which can contribute to relapse.

Mindfulness Meditation

Mindfulness meditation is a type of meditation that involves focusing attention on the present moment without judgment. It can help individuals develop self-awareness, reduce stress and anxiety, and improve emotional regulation. Mindfulness meditation has been shown to effectively reduce substance use and cravings and improve your overall mental health.

These holistic therapies and others, like spiritual work, art, and animal-assisted therapy, can support long-term recovery from addiction to drugs and alcohol. By addressing physical, emotional, and spiritual needs, these therapies can help individuals develop the skills and resources needed to manage cravings, cope with stress, and maintain sobriety over time. 

Traditional Vs. Holistic Methods

Traditional medical treatment methods are essential components of addiction treatment. These methods provide a scientifically proven and evidence-based approach to addressing addiction and its associated physical and mental health conditions. On the other hand, holistic approaches provide additional complementary therapies that address individuals' emotional, spiritual, and mental health needs in recovery.

Combining traditional and holistic methods offers a more comprehensive and integrated approach to addiction treatment, addressing the whole person and promoting overall health and well-being. For example, medication-assisted treatment can help manage withdrawal symptoms and reduce cravings, while acupuncture and meditation can help reduce stress and promote relaxation. Other techniques paired with holistic methods include group therapy, MAT, one-on-one counseling, and support groups like AA and NA.

Therefore, the most effective approach to addiction treatment combines traditional medical treatment methods with holistic practices. 

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Benefits of Holistic Therapy

After treatment, you'll need to learn how to replace your old, dangerous coping skills with new, healthier ones. The holistic approach sets the groundwork for new behaviors to help you stay sober. Here are some other benefits of holistic therapy: 

Holistic therapy offers many benefits for individuals seeking addiction treatment, such as treating the whole person, reducing stress, promoting self-healing, and improving the overall quality of life. When used with traditional medical treatment methods, holistic therapy can provide a more comprehensive and integrated approach to addiction recovery.

At More Than Rehab, we believe in the power of a holistic approach to addiction treatment. We offer a range of evidence-based traditional medical treatment methods and complementary, holistic therapies to provide a comprehensive and individualized treatment plan that addresses all aspects of your health and well-being. 

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7 Healthy Foods To Eat While Detoxing From Drugs

Getting sober can be difficult for people who have even what seems to be a mild substance abuse problem. Part of what makes recovery so difficult, is going through the initial drug detox and sometimes painful withdrawals when they first stop using their drug of choice. While many people experience some sort of drug detox or drug withdrawal symptoms, some substances are said to be more severe, such as with alcohol or opioid addictions. What many may not consider when thinking about or going through drug detox is that a healthy diet can help ease this process. The food you eat plays a crucial role in helping to support your body through the process by replacing any sort of lost nutrients. Maintaining a healthy diet during detox can also help deter people from relapsing. So, if you are worried about going through a drug detox, or you are currently undergoing detox, then here are 7 healthy foods to eat while detoxing from drugs and alcohol.

1. Water

Water is extremely crucial for your health, and many people do not get enough of it a day. This is regardless of whether or not they are going through a drug detox.  Staying hydrated while detoxing will help ensure that you are replacing the fluids your body needs in order to function. If water just isn’t really your thing, then that's okay, the most important thing is to stay hydrated during the detox period. You can also drink other fluids, like electrolyte-packed Gatorade or even coconut water. The latter is good, especially when your withdrawal symptoms have been causing you to throw up a lot.

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2. Proteins

Proteins are essential for the normal functioning of our bodies. The protein obtained from consuming animals or plants gets broken down into amino acids which the body uses to repair cells. It is not a secret that drug abuse and addiction wreak havoc on the overall health of our bodies, so proteins are essential when going through a detox. For carnivores, high-protien foods like tuna and chicken are great, because they are also very high in vitamins like B6. For the vegitarians and vegans out there, you can also get plant-based protein from foods like lentils and black beans.

3. Complex Carbs

A lot of time many people do not get sufficient enough nutrition while they are abusing drugs or alcohol, so when they go through detox their body does not have the proper resources it needs to fully recover. By eating tons of complex carbohydrates, you are helping give back to your body what it needs. Not only are carbs a great source of energy for our cells but they also contain a lot of fiber which is extremely helpful to maintain a healthy digestive system. This is especially important to your health while the body is going through a drug detox.

4. Dark Green, Leafy Vegetables

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As a general rule of thumb, the darker the better when it comes to green vegetables, at least in terms of nutrition. Vegetables like spinach, romaine lettuce, kale, and other salad greens are high in antioxidants and vitamins like B6, folic acid, and beta carotene, which your body converts into vitamin A. In fact, collard greens are said to contain more calcium than milk! Vegetables also contain high amounts of fiber, which helps aid in digestive health. A healthy digestive tract is something that can be very beneficial during a drug detox.

5. Healthy Fats

Not only are healthy fats another crucial component in an overall healthy detox diet, but foods high in omega 3 fatty acids have been shown to reduce drug cravings and fight depression. Foods high in healthy fats include things like nuts, fish, seeds, avocados, and certain oils, like olive oil. Foods high in healthy fat will also leave you feeling fuller and more satiated. The importance of ensuring you have enough healthy fats in your diet, especially during detox, cannot be overstated.

6. Bright Fruits and Veggies

Not only is having a colorful and diverse plate important to keeping our senses engaged while eating, but bright fruits and veggies are known to provide more protective health benefits. Bright, deeply colored fruits and veggies are not only packed with nutrients but they also contain phytochemicals. Phytochemicals help fight free radicals that can cause damage to body tissue, cells and even our DNA. Not only that, but foods like papaya, bell peppers, strawberries, oranges, and pineapple are all extremely high in vitamin C.

7. Seaweed

During detox, seaweed may be your best friend. It is recommended that you eat at least two to three ounces a day while detoxing. A key, active ingredient in seaweed is known as sodium alginate. This substance binds to any remnants of the drug still left inside of the body and keeps it from being absorbed. Being a dark green vegetable itself, seaweed is also extremely high in things like, omega 3 fatty acids, vitamin A and iron. Seaweed is also a cheap, tasty, low calorie snack.

These are just a few foods you will want to include in your diet if you are going to detox from drugs or alcohol. You also do not, and most likely should not, have to go through this alone. For many people, medical detox is necessary to help ensure patient health and safety. If you are looking for help with this difficult process, then please reach out to us More Than Rehab for help. Our entire staff, even down to the chefs, know just how painful detoxing can be. So let us help ease you through the process.

Suffering from a substance abuse problem, such as drug or alcohol addiction, happens to be very common in our country. So if you or a loved one are going through the same thing, then just know that you are not alone. More importantly, there is no shame in admitting that you need help with an addiction to drugs or alcohol. The first step to getting sober is admitting that you have a problem. For many people, just admitting the problem exists is a huge step, as it requires a lot of courage. Ultimately, a life of sobriety is worth having and many people who embark on the journey end up living healthy and fulfilling lives. We understand how this is possible and we can help you start the process of recovery from drug and alcohol addiction. Please give us a call today. We are here for you and your family, 24/7.

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