Nutrition Counseling & Substance Abuse
Nutrition advice and counseling are often included in recovery programs for substance abuse. This is because malnutrition is common in individuals who suffer from drug or alcohol abuse. Addiction can disrupt normal eating patterns, and can also prevent the body from absorbing the nutrients it needs.
Nutrition Counseling During Withdrawal & Detox
Detox and withdrawal are the processes of a drug or alcohol leaving the system. Some of the symptoms of detox and withdrawal can be worsened by poor nutrition or hydration. Eating healthy, whole foods and staying hydrated (and in some cases, ensuring electrolyte balance) can help support a safe and comfortable withdrawal process. Proper nutrition can provide energy and nutrients to support bodily functions during detox.
Nutrition Counseling During Treatment
After detox and withdrawal, drug and alcohol addiction patients may attend an inpatient or outpatient treatment program. Nutrition is an important part of rehab, as regular and balanced eating patterns are often disrupted during addiction.
Nutrition counseling can help address nutrient deficiencies and provide education and skills that encourage a healthy diet during recovery and beyond. Eating balanced and regular meals can help keep the body and mind well and can also help heal some of the damage related to substance abuse.
A healthy diet can also be viewed as self-care and can be a great way to prioritize taking care of yourself and maintaining health and balance in sobriety.