Select Page

The goal of treatment is to break free from the chemical bonds of an addiction. A healthy body will have a better chance of succeeding in recovery. A healthy diet can be a great way to increase health, get through treatment faster and suffer fewer side effects.

Hydration is a Key Element

Our Facility Helps Individuals Establish a Healthy DietDehydration is one of the biggest problems patients face during our program. During a medical detox, symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea and sweating are all common. When combined with dehydration, it creates a serious problem.

Drinking water and electrolyte beverages is one way to stay hydrated. The right food can also be an underrated way to boost hydration. Patients can benefit greatly from eating ingredients that are naturally rich in water content.

Fruits like oranges and watermelon can be incredibly hydrating. Leafy greens are also rich in water. Even soups and smoothies can be ideal. Plus, these liquid foods are easy to consume and digest.

Cutting Out Unhealthy and Inflammatory Foods

Medical experts recommend not eating certain foods during treatment. Inflammatory foods can add to discomfort and cause digestive trouble. Of course, many people will already be familiar with foods they shouldn’t include in a diet.

Fried foods, particularly those with trans fats, are definitely not recommended during detox. Nutritional experts also don’t recommend sugar. That means you’ll have to do without various cakes, cookies, candies and ice creams.

Addressing Nutritional Deficiencies

Many people struggling with addiction also struggle with malnutrition. This happens for several reasons, but this is a time to address these issues head on.

Often, those struggling with addiction simply lack a nutritious diet. They make substance abuse a bigger priority than shopping, cooking and eating healthy meals. An addiction can mean nutrients aren’t properly absorbed. Even if individuals do consume them, the body isn’t accessing them.

For these reasons, a proper diet should address any lacking nutrients. Supplements can be used, but a whole food diet is often sufficient. This include lots of the following:

  • Fruits and vegetables
  • Dairy products
  • Complex carbohydrates
  • Nuts and seeds
  • Protein

Creating Routine With Three Meals a Day

A healthy diet isn’t just about what you consume, but also the way you consume it. Three meals a day can help create a routine for patients. The structure is important because it reduces the choices patients need to make.

Having three nutritious and tasty meals a day makes it easy to stay healthy. It also improves overall health, which is key in the ongoing journey to lasting recovery from addiction.

The right diet can be beneficial to patients beginning recovery. At First Step in West Palm Beach, Florida, we make your health, nutrition, and recovery our top priorities. If you’re ready to regain control of your life, call 877-389-1135 today.