Moreover, it is common for alcoholics to have depleted magnesium. Supplementing magnesium during alcohol detox can help improve some withdrawal symptoms. Magnesium helps your body absorb other vitamins, eases muscle aches and tension, and aids in sleep. Individuals who are in recovery from alcohol abuse can greatly benefit from a healthy diet coupled with a robust vitamin regimen. Replenishing vitamins and nutrients in a body depleted by alcoholism can help boost energy levels and diminish unpleasant withdrawal symptoms, helping greatly with the recovery process. When you’re in recovery from alcohol addiction, nutrition can play a major role in helping your system bounce back.
- Similar to folic acid, deficiency can be caused by inadequate intake and alcohol inhibiting storage and absorption.
- There are two different types of vitamins, fat soluble and water soluble.
During alcohol withdrawal, your immune system health is compromised due to added stress, which hinders normal nervous system functions. The University of Michigan Health System suggests supplementing vitamin C to rid the body of excess alcohol during the initial withdrawal. The upper limit for daily vitamin C is 2,000 mg, however, medically supervised dose increase is advised before taking vitamin C exceeding the daily recommendation of 90 mg. Vitamin A, or beta-carotene supplements help to correct deficiencies during withdrawal, but due to potential liver damage from alcoholism, should only be taken under physician supervision. Take time to understand nutritional deficiencies and address them with positive dietary changes for energy stability, mood management and general wellness.
Vitamins to take for alcohol withdrawal
This may include things like an IV drip for hydration or vitamins to keep levels of both stable throughout withdrawal, leading to a smoother transition to treatment. The sooner you seek out treatment for alcohol addiction, the sooner your risk of Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome can be reduced with treatment and nutritional supplements for alcoholics. First, you’ll need a full nutritional workup from your family doctor. They’ll ask about your health history, do a physical exam, and run some blood tests. The doctor may tell you to take supplements to raise your nutrient levels.
- Long-term alcohol use can cause vitamin A levels to fall in the liver, the primary organ that breaks down alcohol and stores vitamin A.
- However, alcohol consumption affects the metabolism of homocysteine (tHcy) because the enzyme cofactor for the conversion of tHcy to methionine is vitamin B12.
- The University of Michigan Health System suggests supplementing vitamin C to rid the body of excess alcohol during the initial withdrawal.
- Too little could eventually cause serious learning and memory problems, a condition called Wernicke-Korsakoff’s syndrome.
- However, further studies with reference to the changes in vitamin status and the nutritional management of chronic liver disease are in demand.
Not only that, drug and alcohol use can deplete necessary vitamin sources in our bodies. In other words, addiction can lead to vitamin and mineral deficiencies. There are no meal plans that major scientific or medical organizations specifically recommend. Nutritionists, however, can provide detailed, personalized meal plans for those recovering from alcoholism to help them meet their nutritional goals and optimize their recovery. As with any supplement regimen, it is essential to consult with a healthcare provider to ensure these are appropriate and safe for your personal health circumstances. It is also important to remember that supplementation should support, not replace, a balanced diet.
Vitamin B1 to the rescue to ward off damage from alcohol
Unfortunately, many people attempt to quit drugs or alcohol on their own, which almost never works. No matter what the substance or the person’s history of abusing it, the withdrawal phase is where most people fail when trying to fight addiction alone. Understanding the relationship between nutrition Allergic to Alcohol? 10 Common Symptoms of Alcohol Intolerance and addiction recovery means understanding the roles nutrients play in the body. There are six nutrient groups derived from food that are considered essential, and they can be divided into micronutrients and macronutrients. It can be exciting and motivating for you in your recovery journey!
A well-balanced diet reduces illness, stress, and emotional discomfort. All of this information may seem discouraging at first, but don’t lose hope. Vitamins for alcoholics prove effective in boosting your mood and strengthening your body. Further, https://accountingcoaching.online/allergic-to-alcohol-10-common-symptoms-of-alcohol/ balancing your diet with vitamins and minerals can also help you detox and recover from alcohol abuse. Vitamin deficiencies may lead to health complications, but you can tackle these issues when you increase your vitamin and mineral intake.
Why Do We Need Supplements For Alcohol Detox?
The right combination of vitamins and supplements can not only help you feel physically healthier, it can also help you overcome alcohol cravings and common long-term withdrawal symptoms like anxiety and depression. Fruits and vegetables are nutritional powerhouses, high in fiber, vitamins and minerals, and low in calories. They can help the body repair damage caused by alcohol abuse by providing antioxidants, which fight against harmful free radicals produced during excessive alcohol consumption. They can also provide several important nutrients often deficient in those with alcohol addiction.
To get more magnesium, eat dark leafy greens, nuts, seeds, avocados, bananas, wild salmon, and tuna. Amino acids are in lean meats, eggs, seafood, dairy, tofu, quinoa, seeds, and beans. For more B1, which is a particularly important vitamin during recovery from alcoholism, you can focus on consuming wheat, beef, cereals, and milk. Alcohol-induced liver damage, extracellular matrix changes, and inflammation have all been linked to acetaldehyde [26,27]. Its actions are triggered by the formation of ROS and a redox imbalance (NAD/NADH).