Alcohol withdrawal is frequently challenging, and everyone experiences it differently. It also depends on the level of addiction one has to alcohol.
The stage when your body is getting rid of alcohol completely, also known as the alcohol detoxification stage, can last several weeks after the withdrawal stage. Taking care of your diet can help with alcohol detoxification faster and easier.
Diet, an important part
When a person is trying alcohol detox at home, diet plays an important role in it. During the early stages of detox, a good diet can help the liver and other organs to rest and recover from the damage that might have occurred during chronic drinking.
The body needs natural feel-good chemicals present in healthy food to overcome the damage from excessive drinking.
Hydration
During the process of alcohol detox, drinking water is likely to be told as the most crucial part of the process. The body, during the detoxification, is still adjusting to less fluid intake than usual. This is why hydration at this stage is very important.
Symptoms of withdrawal like sweating, diarrhea, and vomiting also cause loss of fluid and dehydration of the body, thus hydration is also needed to replenish the body after the damage.
Alcohol Detox Foods
Consumption of certain nutrient-rich foods makes the process of detoxification easier and can help a person reach their goals much faster. Here are some foods that can aid in the detox process.
A diet rich in fruits and vegetables is recommended. The high fibre content in fruits and vegetables regulates hunger and blood sugar levels in the body.
After the withdrawal stage, a person might crave sweets a lot. The presence of sugar in fruits can help them with cravings without causing an imbalance in the diet to be followed for detoxification. Fruits are also rich in antioxidant vitamins and are hydrating.
Whole grains
To support the vital detox organs of the body, liver, and kidneys, it is necessary to provide them with carbohydrates as they provide energy and B vitamins.
These nutrients are depleted from the body after the withdrawal stage. Whole-grain foods include whole-wheat bread, brown rice, and oats.
Proteins low in fat
A decrease in appetite is a common effect after the withdrawal stage of alcoholism, but protein is an important nutrient needed in the diet for detoxification.
Food like bone broth, which is low in protein and easy to get down can be consumed in order to keep the body fulfilled with important proteins.
Cayenne Pepper
It is normal to have alcohol cravings even in the detoxification stage, adding cayenne pepper to foods can help overcome such cravings.
Additionally, it can alleviate other signs and symptoms of withdrawal, such as headaches and nausea.
Omega-3 fats
Omega 3 is a healthy fat that stabilizes mood, reduces inflammation, and improves brain function. Oily fish and chia seeds are among the foods high in omega 3.
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