The Role of Nutrition Therapy in Recovery

How Substance Use Affects Your Appetite

The use of any substance, whether drugs or alcohol, affects your body both physically and mentally. Physically, you may notice a change in your mood or behavior, difficulty with motor coordination, a weakened immune system, an increase in fatigue, or other long-term health conditions. One of the biggest physical elements substances influence is your appetite, yet it is one of the lesser commonly discussed topics.

Drugs and alcohol can interfere with your diet in many ways. Often they can cause people to forget to eat or eat poorly, resulting in malnourishment. People who struggle with substance use may also prioritize their substance overeating, causing them to lack a consistent routine or suppressing their appetite. Others may experience overeating due to substance use, causing weight gain and other health complications.

Additionally, drugs and alcohol can cause people to be deficient in specific vitamins and minerals. These essential nutrients can be detrimental to one’s physical health. Eating nutrient-dense meals is vital to physical and mental healing while in recovery. Here are some tips to help nourish your body during your recovery journey:

Work with a Nutritionist

One of the best resources to healing your gut and physical health is a nutritionist. Because of their specific studies, nutritionists are incredibly knowledgeable on what areas you may be most deficient in, as well as what food groups can help rebuild your health.

Together, a nutritionist will work with you to develop a dietary plan that works best for you and your lifestyle. They will also evaluate your stress levels and consider any other health conditions. Nutritionists serve as a guide to meet your individual needs in repairing your dietary health.

Develop a Meal Plan

Having a routine is highly beneficial for those in recovery. It allows you to stick to a set schedule, eliminating potential triggers. Developing a meal plan can seem overwhelming initially, but there are tips and tricks to make it easier.

Start by making a menu for the week at the beginning of each week. View what ingredients are in your cabinets and what is on sale at the store to help save money long-term. Be sure to choose meals that are not complicated and don’t include hard-to-access ingredients to help create a set shopping list for the grocery store. Set aside time in your week to make the meals and ensure they are full of nutrient-rich foods!

Research Food Guides

Maintaining a balanced diet looks different for everyone. Depending on which nutrients, vitamins, and minerals you may be deficient in, the foods necessary for your health will differ from those for anyone else. However, there are basic guidelines to healthy eating that you can follow to nourish your body.

Incorporate the proper amounts of water, proteins, carbohydrates, and healthy fats into every meal and snack you consume. Rebuilding your nutritional health is not something that happens overnight but rather a journey and process that takes place over time. However, as you begin to eat healthier, you will notice a positive change in your mood and overall well-being.

Finding the Right Recovery Path at Carolina Recovery Solutions

There is no one-size-fits-all approach to recovery. The team at Carolina Recovery Solutions employs a personalized and integrated approach, evaluating your unique needs, concerns, and goals. We offer a range of therapeutic treatments in a warm, welcoming environment that allows you to focus on your recovery.

Contact us online or call our team today at (828) 383-8328 to learn more about how we can help you.