Addiction can have a huge impact on general health and wellbeing. Many people who are addicted to either drugs or alcohol often lose their appetite, which then results in the deficiency of essential micronutrients and even severe malnutrition if not treated.
As malnutrition and severe deficiencies put a huge strain on the body’s detoxification system, it’s important that the necessary vitamins and minerals are consumed to prevent further health issues and support the addict’s recovery journey.
Eating a balanced diet and including the use of supplements can help alleviate the side effects associated with drug and alcohol withdrawal while helping recovering addicts rebuild their natural vitamin and mineral supplies over time.
Many people that suffer from alcoholism have a lack of vitamin B1 or thiamine as it’s also known. Essential for the healthy functioning of the brain and the nervous system, vitamin B1 also plays a huge part in the flow of electrolytes, digestion and the nervous system.
Usually found in foods such as wheat, beef, milk and cereals, vitamin B1, as well as
essential vitamins such as vitamin A, D, and E are essential in any recovery from alcoholism.
Many drug addicts also suffer from deficiencies including Vitamin B1, B5, B6, C, and E, which are all essential for the body to function at a happy and healthy level. But that’s not all. Drug addicts also commonly suffer from deficiencies in calcium, magnesium and niacin.
Vitamin C is particularly important as it is a natural anti-oxidant that helps to manage and alleviate painful withdrawal symptoms.
Found in foods such as salmon and nuts, concentrated Omega 3 Fatty Acid supplements can help to reduce withdrawal symptoms.
Vitamin D supplements are commonly used to help recovering methamphetamine addicts, opiate addicts, and alcoholics who generally suffer from a chronic deficiency in vitamin D.
A variety of vitamin B supplements have been proven to reduce craving, whilst improving brain health.
Magnesium supplements can help to diminish withdrawal complications, whilst reducing the severity of withdrawal symptoms.
Found in oysters, mushrooms, pumpkin seeds, cashews, and spinach, Zinc is important for optimal mental health so supplements can be incredibly beneficial for recovering addicts.
You should always consult a healthcare professional for advice on the best supplements for your addiction recovery journey.
To learn more about how vitamins and minerals can help support the recovery process, or to discuss the support you need, please get in touch with our team.
