We recommend speaking with your doctor about how heavy drinking has impacted your body, and which supplements will be the best vitamins for alcohol recovery most safe and useful for you as an individual. Other new habits, such as regular exercise, mindfulness practice, and a healthier diet, can all contribute to boosting your health in recovery. Cannabidiol, or CBD, is a compound that naturally occurs in the cannabis plant. More research is needed, but early studies suggest that CBD may help with pain management, anxiety, alcohol cravings, and even liver and brain damage linked to excessive drinking. Despite its presence in marijuana, CBD itself does not cause an individual to feel high.
Marijuana and Nutrition
Studies show that drugs physically change the structure and functioning of the brain, and these documented brain changes lead to cravings (96). I personally have experience with tobacco, nicotine, alcohol, stimulant, benzodiazepines and antidepressant dependence, addiction and withdrawal. BetterHelp offers affordable mental health care via phone, video, or live-chat. Alcohol abuse and nutrient deficiencies can lead to reduced bone density and an increased risk of osteoporosis and fractures6. Additionally, alcohol can block the body’s absorption of many of the nutrients from food. If the food is predominantly junk food, the combined effect is to leave the user malnourished.
Vitamin C and Immune System Support
A lack of B vitamins can lead to fatigue, memory problems, and reduced alertness, so ensuring your body gets enough B vitamins is important during alcohol withdrawal and recovery. 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.
Precautions and Consultation with Healthcare Providers
In another study, people with cocaine dependence and bipolar disorder who supplemented with citicoline reduced their cocaine use. Researchers had directed them to not consume cocaine during the study, and at the end of it, the researchers found less cocaine in the urine of the participants (9). Research shows that vitamin and mineral deficiencies can cause metabolic imbalances that create addictive cravings (97, 98). And in my experience and research, high-quality bioavailable nutrients are an important aspect of combating and correcting this. It eases inflammation and protects the thin layer that surrounds your brain cells, called the cell membrane.
- The total cost of the thiamine and supplies to administer it is $89 for a total of six 500-milligram treatments delivered three times a day for two days.
- B vitamins can inadvertently improve metabolism by restoring optimal liver function and correcting any thiamine deficiency.
- There are at least nutrients that have been clinically shown to help people quit drinking and repair their bodies.
- Your body is able to synthesize some of the amino acids on its own, but there are several you can only absorb from food.
- Oxidative stress can change neuronal pathways and cause addictive behaviour.
- However, there is no definitive scientific evidence that vitamin C alone can prevent a hangover.
A lack of vitamin B9 can trigger anemia and make you weak, tired, and moody. Folic acid is in foods like enriched bread, flour, cornmeal, pasta, rice, and breakfast cereals. Veggies, fruits, fruit juices, nuts, beans, and peas naturally have folate. Too much alcohol can cause inflammation in your stomach lining and pancreas. It also affects your body’s ability to absorb B vitamins and folic acid.
- A lack of vitamin C can deplete bone and muscle strength, leading to chronic fatigue and a lack of energy.
- Considering all of this, it’s not too surprising that it has anti-addictive properties and can help reduce withdrawal symptoms.
- There are many resources that offer help, and it’s crucial to find one that suits your needs.
- Replenishing electrolytes helps restore fluid balance, reducing symptoms like dry mouth, headache, and fatigue.
- This occurs as both substances use similar pathways in the body to metabolize them.
Neuroplasticity is the brain’s ability to form new connections and rearrange old ones, typically in response to injury, disease or a change in the environment. The development of addiction is itself an example of neuroplasticity, as the reward pathway’s activity chemically adapts to the presence of drugs or alcohol. Carbohydrates, or carbs, are another nutrient that has been targeted for heavy reduction or elimination by diet fads. However, carbohydrates are essential for the function of the central nervous system and brain. They are so important that the Dietary Guidelines for Americans suggests 45% to 65% of daily calories should come from carbs. Another issue is opioid-induced constipation, which can become severe over time.
- During the withdrawal process, alcohol cravings and irregular appetite may occur.
- 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.
- Additionally, treatment often involves the use of medications to help reduce cravings and prevent relapse.
- For instance, you may not like raw kale but find that braising it makes it much more palatable.
- Supplementing with specific vitamins and minerals like thiamine, vitamin C, and magnesium can support your liver’s recovery and restore essential nutrients that AUD has depleted.
In the same manner, those who have bulimia and binge eating disorders experience extreme cravings for food and feel a loss of control when over-consuming. Both food and addictive substances present ways to escape from or numb unwanted feelings. While the body can withstand malnutrition for weeks, if not longer, dehydration quickly becomes a matter of life or death.
Addiction Destroys Dreams, We Can Help
The liver, pancreas, and intestines play crucial roles in breaking down and metabolizing alcohol. Excessive alcohol consumption can contribute to liver disease, cirrhosis, and alcoholic hepatitis. Supporting these organs is vital in preventing further damage and maintaining overall digestive health. It’s crucial to engage with your healthcare provider when considering vitamin supplementation as a means of support during your recovery.
Alcohol use continues to skyrocket, prompting young people to need liver transplants — especially young women
As an individual dealing with alcoholism, it’s important to understand that self-medicating with vitamins and supplements can pose several risks. As you embrace sobriety, prioritizing nutrition becomes essential for your overall well-being. Alcohol misuse can deplete essential vitamins, such as thiamine (vitamin B1), folate (vitamin B9), and pyridoxine (vitamin B6). To replenish these nutrients, focus on a balanced diet incorporating whole foods like lean proteins, fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Incorporating these supplements and remedies into your recovery plan can provide essential support for your body as you heal.