Nutritional therapy can be beneficial in addiction recovery by restoring proper nutrition and encouraging healthy, holistic behaviors in recovery. Woodland Recovery Center offers nutritional therapy as part of our addiction therapy services to help our patients heal in every aspect of their lives. Learn more about nutrition and addiction recovery by contacting our team at 662.222.2989.
Why We Offer Nutrition and Addiction Counseling
Many individuals who struggle with substance use may find themselves lacking essential nutrients. This can occur as a result of eating too little, eating an unbalanced diet, or as a direct result of excessive drug and alcohol consumption itself.
Lacking certain nutrients in the body can have negative effects on a person’s physical and mental health, which can worsen substance use behaviors. Alongside traditional treatments such as behavioral therapy, nutritional therapy is an effective treatment strategy for addiction.
Treating nutrient deficiencies, as well as co-occurring eating disorders in those with substance use issues, can reduce the risk of relapse and improve whole-body wellness in sobriety. At Woodland Recovery Center, we offer an array of wellness-based treatments within our inpatient programs to re-introduce patients to a balanced diet and encourage healthy habits.
How We Use Nutritional Therapy in Addiction Treatment and Recovery
Within addiction treatment, nutrition therapy can play a key role in directly addressing some of the most common health concerns experienced by people with substance use issues.
A common consequence of heavy alcohol or drug use is malnutrition, which can affect a person’s concentration and ability to think properly. This can make participating in other treatments like counseling more difficult. Engaging in healthier eating habits can also positively affect mood, such as easing irritability, anxiety, and depression.
We begin with an assessment, during which patients can relay their medical history and discuss their eating habits. The dietician will also have access to the results of medical tests conducted upon the patient’s admission.
Based on this initial discussion and medical information, the dietician can then develop a nutrition plan customized to meet the patient’s needs and share their goals for the patient. In addition to a customized meal plan, dieticians may also recommend that patients take certain supplements and vitamins. These can provide an added boost to help restore nutrients in the body more quickly and efficiently.
The physical benefits of nutrition and wellness therapies include:
- Increased energy
- Improved organ function
- Regulation of electrolyte levels
- Improved hydration
- Healthy blood sugar levels
- Greater focus and concentration
- Decreased irritability
- Increased dopamine and serotonin levels
- Reduced drug and alcohol cravings
- Lower risk for relapse
Wellness therapies allow people to witness improvements in strength and energy in themselves and others. This can increase a person’s motivation for staying sober and give them greater hope for the possibilities that lie ahead in recovery.
Is Nutrition Therapy Right for Your Addiction Recovery Plan?
Nutrition therapy can be a critical component of an effective addiction recovery plan, particularly for those who may be experiencing nutritional deficiencies due to their substance use. Incorporating nutritional therapy allows individuals to focus on healing their bodies and minds, fostering a holistic approach to recovery. It enhances conventional treatment methods and can facilitate a smoother transition into a sober lifestyle.
Here are some key considerations to determine if nutrition therapy is appropriate for your recovery journey:
- Current nutritional status – Assess whether you have nutritional deficiencies or imbalances.
- Substance use history – Consider how long and heavily substances have impacted your eating habits and overall health.
- Co-occurring health issues – Evaluate any concurrent health conditions that may benefit from nutritional support, such as eating disorders.
- Commitment to change – Reflect on your willingness to adopt healthier eating habits and make dietary adjustments.
- Integration with existing treatments – Determine how nutritional therapy can complement your current addiction treatment plan and support your overall recovery goals.
Nutritional therapy can be a powerful tool in promoting physical and emotional wellness, reducing the risk of relapse, and supporting long-term recovery from addiction.
Call Woodland Recovery Center for Support with Nutritional Counseling
At Woodland Recovery Center, our holistic treatment approach involves attending to all aspects of addiction, including the effects of poor nutrition on the body and mind.
Integrating nutrition and addiction counseling in our treatment programs allows our patients to learn about the effects of substance use on nutrition and improve their health. Eating a balanced diet and restoring nutrition can positively affect a patient’s well-being and increase the likelihood of long-term recovery.
If you are worried about yourself or someone you know who is struggling with addiction, don’t wait to seek help. Contact us online or call us at 662.222.2989 to learn more or speak with one of our team members.
