During recovery, there are a variety of foods best avoided to return the body to state of optimum health. Education regarding a healthy diet and food preparation may also provide addicts with an activity to keep their minds occupied on something other than using. In addition, a well-planned diet can also cater to specific health issues, commonly exacerbated by addiction.
Alcohol
Alcoholics generally receive ½ + of their daily calorie intake from drinking. Due to the fact that many alcoholics often find themselves with lacking judgment in situations filled with salty, greasy and fatty food items, many do not receive enough nutrition to maintain proper health. As such, one of the initial steps of recovery is the restoration of dietary balance. This means choosing healthy food items whilst removing alcohol and sugary beverages from the diet. For individuals lacking any serious health issues, following the basic guidelines outlined in the Food Pyramid is a wonderful place to start.
Obesity
Many recovering alcoholics lack in physical health by the time they finally seek help. Perhaps the most common health issue seen in newly recovering alcoholics is obesity, due to the steady intake of empty calories consumed when drinking. For those alcoholics struggling with obesity, sweets and junk foods should be avoided at all costs. In addition, recovering alcoholics should attempt to burn more calories than consumed on a daily basis to help shed excess pounds.
Obesity-Related Conditions
Conditions such as hypertension and high cholesterol often go hand-in-hand with obesity. Recovering alcoholics who are struggling with these conditions may also want to seek out foods with lowered sodium, fat, cholesterol and salt levels. The help
Malnutrition
After a period of consuming low-quality foods, many alcoholics find themselves lacking the nutrients necessary to maintain proper health. Over a long enough period, these individuals may become malnourished and starved of essential minerals and vitamins. Lacking these nutrients, alcoholics incur a heightened risk of conditions like anemia, osteoporosis or worse. As such, it is vital that recovering alcoholics seek out foods high in minerals and vitamins, including veggies, fruits and low-fat dairy items. Daily multivitamins may also help promote a proper nutritional balance during early recovery.
Peptic Ulcers
When an alcoholic continues to drink over an elongated period, the body may begin to develop peptic ulcers. Alcoholics with these ulcers must pay special mind to portion control, or eating too much in one sitting. Instead, recovering alcoholics are encouraged to enjoy a series of smaller nutritional meals throughout the day to help the body regain balance.
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