Unfortunately, the average multivitamin is not enough to put an end to withdrawals. I found relief over time, gradually, and I tried many that did not work. The process was worthwhile because every now and then, I would discover a miracle supplement that would catapult my sense of well-being to new heights. Years ago, I had cravings that were so bad that I wondered if they would be a permanent part of my life. They’re likely cooked in unhealthy fats, like saturated and trans fats, and aren’t very nutritious. Good nutrition also helps your brain rework old connections and make new ones.
- The liver breaks down most of the alcohol you drink so that it can be removed from the body.
- When you regularly consume alcohol, it hinders the breakdown and absorption of nutrients, particularly water-soluble vitamins such as vitamin B12 and vitamin C.
- Experts believe its calming effects might be due to its activity on gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) receptors in the brain, which slow down the central nervous system.
- Canola, olive, safflower, sesame, and sunflower oils are good sources of healthy fats.
- GABA is a neurotransmitter that helps regulate mood, reduce anxiety, and promote relaxation.
- In a related article, I share why these are the best vitamins and minerals for alcohol detox as well as some signs of deficiency.
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We recommend speaking with your doctor about how heavy drinking has impacted your body, and which supplements will be the 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. Studies show that glycine is useful in treating both alcoholic hepatitis and carcinoma caused by alcoholic cirrhosis. Even if you are not suffering from these conditions, taking glycine may help protect your liver if you have a history of heavy drinking. During the withdrawal process, alcohol cravings and irregular appetite may occur. To help manage these withdrawal symptoms, incorporate healthy food choices and regular eating patterns into your daily routine.
- It eases inflammation and protects the thin layer that surrounds your brain cells, called the cell membrane.
- Some vitamins can provide significant benefits to counter some of the adverse effects of drinking.
- Taking supplements like vitamin C, NAC, and GABA may help replenish your nutrient stores, potentially reducing your cravings and easing your withdrawal symptoms.
- For professional medical information on natural medicines, see Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database Professional Version.© Therapeutic Research Faculty 2018.
Vitamin B Complex
Your diet can also impact neurotransmitter levels and function and gut bacteria. A nutritionist can help you address specific dietary needs, establish regular meal patterns, achieve portion control and help meet many other important nutritional needs. Whole grains, such as oats, brown rice and quinoa, are essential to a recovery diet as they are rich in B vitamins and fiber. Alcohol depletes these vitamins, so replenishing them is key to recovery. Melatonin supplements can help reduce alcohol cravings by improving sleep quality and regulating mood, which can reduce stress-related triggers.
- Amino acids, the building blocks of protein, are crucial for maintaining and repairing the body’s tissues, including muscles, bones, and organs.
- If you’re having issues with your drinking habits, don’t hesitate to seek out treatment options to help you stay sober.
- Unlike prescription anti-anxiety medication, it does not cause sedation and drowsiness (13, 14, 15).
- This is because they address the psychological aspects of addiction without considering the physical aspects of the disease.
- Whole grains, such as oats, brown rice and quinoa, are essential to a recovery diet as they are rich in B vitamins and fiber.
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Concentrating on regaining good health can maximize the chances of success in recovery from what are the best supplements a recovering alcholic should take addiction and set recovering alcoholics on the right path to a new life. Avoiding processed foods high in sugars and unhealthy fats is crucial for liver health. Instead, opt for a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, whole grains, and healthy fats like those found in avocados or nuts. Including omega-3 fatty acids from sources like fish oil or flaxseed oil can also support overall liver health by reducing inflammation. Alcohol abuse can wreak havoc on the liver, causing significant damage that requires a comprehensive approach to healing.
Loss of appetite is one of the signs of liver diseases like cirrhosis and alcoholic hepatitis. Foods such as citrus fruits, bell pepper, strawberries, tomatoes, and potatoes are all high in vitamin C. One particularly important B vitamin is thiamine, and up to 80% of heavy drinkers are deficient in thiamine due to low absorption and low intake.
Some important amino acids in this process are tryptophan, tyrosine, and glutamine. Consuming a balanced diet that includes a variety of protein sources will help ensure you receive all the necessary amino acids for proper healing and a successful recovery. Supplementing your diet with essential minerals like magnesium, zinc, iron, and calcium is a vital aspect of recovery from alcohol use disorder. Ensure you consult with a healthcare professional to determine the appropriate dosages and supplements to support your journey toward better health.
