Chronically low levels of magnesium can cause nausea, heart palpitations, stiffness, muscle spasms, general body weakness, and increase the risks of high blood pressure and type-2 diabetes. Dihydromyricetin (DHM) is an over-the-counter herbal remedy well-known for soothing hangovers. Research shows that DHM can increase the efficacy of enzymes that metabolize alcohol, helping your body to eliminate it faster. DHM also appears to reduce inflammation and fat accumulation in the liver, helping to guard against alcohol-related liver disease. An estimated five vitamins for recovering alcoholics to 10 percent of male drinkers and three to five percent of female drinkers are dependent on alcohol. People who consume more than 12 drinks a week (women) or 15 drinks a week (men) are more likely to become alcoholic.
Coping with Cravings and Appetite Regulation
I discuss the benefits of these 7 fatty acids and amino acids for alcohol detox in much more detail in a related article. The good news is that, over time, you can repair your liver, regulate amino acids and retrain your brain to produce dopamine. This lack of vitamins and minerals can make recovery more difficult with worsened withdrawal symptoms.
- When alcoholics are admitted to the emergency room, it isn’t uncommon for them to receive an intravenous dose of thiamine to prevent alcohol-induced cognitive deficits.
- The mineral has been shown to decrease dependence on opiates, nicotine, cocaine, amphetamine and alcohol, and reduce the intensity of withdrawal symptoms when stopping these drugs (84).
- Understanding these effects underscores the importance of nutrition in the recovery process, as a well-balanced diet can help to repair alcohol-induced damage and restore optimal digestive function.
- Supplementing your diet with essential minerals like magnesium, zinc, iron, and calcium is a vital aspect of recovery from alcohol use disorder.
- So, without further ado, let’s get into nutrients and supplements that helped me the most.
The Road to Recovery
One animal study showed that ashwagandha helps control mood changes, anxiety and seizures from alcohol withdrawal, but this effect has not yet been studied in humans. If individuals believe they have a problem with alcohol or if they drink more than the recommended amounts, they should speak with their doctor for support and advice. Therefore, long-term alcohol use leads to lower nutrient consumption and can affect how the body uses this limited supply of nutrients. As a result, many individuals who misuse alcohol may become malnourished. 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. This occurs as both substances use similar pathways in the body to metabolize them.
Detoxification process
A potent multivitamin like Legion Triumph is often a good idea, and results are generally even better when combined with amino acids found in supplements like BR Restore. Some studies have been done on d-phenylalanine, finding it improves alcohol withdrawal symptoms. B-vitamin deficiencies are common in those who struggle with alcohol. Although many different B vitamins can be impacted by drinking, one of the most dangerous B-vitamin deficiencies is thiamine or vitamin B1. Lack of vitamin B1 can cause a life-threatening condition called Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome.
- This deficiency can lead to severe health issues like Wernicke-Korsakoff Syndrome (WKS), which affects the brain and nervous system.
- The body requires good nutrition to increase energy levels and maintain bodily processes.
- But this can actually hinder your recovery process and make it more difficult for you to stay clean.
- In animals, zinc reduces the intensity of morphine dependence, and zinc chelators worsen withdrawal symptoms (76, 77, 78).
- Shiling was eager to work on the problem because Wernicke encephalopathy is completely reversible once patients receive IV thiamine.
- In addition to supplements for alcohol cravings, there are several prescription medications that can help you cut back or quit drinking.
Redefining alcoholism to remind victims that recovery is possible
I have a medicine cabinet filled with the aforementioned supplements, and it feels good to know that I have them just in case I need them. Not getting enough of this vitamin can lead to anemia, depression, confusion, and a weak immune system. Poultry, fish, non-citrus fruit, and starchy vegetables such as potatoes are good sources. Alcohol and poor eating can stop your liver from releasing glucose into your blood.
Heavy drinkers are prone to nutrient deficiencies that https://ecosoberhouse.com/article/what-spiritual-malady-means/ can cause fatigue and weakness, skin and hair issues, metabolism problems, bone fractures, bruising, bleeding, and depression. Fortunately, taking vitamins regularly and achieving good nutrition can help alleviate some of these adverse effects. Balancing social drinking and dietary supplements requires careful consideration of your overall health and nutritional needs. If you or a loved one is struggling with malnutrition as a result of addiction, it’s important to remember that you are not alone.
More on Substance Abuse and Addiction
People with alcohol use disorder are more likely to have a less nutritious diet, which exacerbates vitamin deficiencies. Alcohol tends to affect the absorption of all vitamins, but particularly vitamin B12, which depletes even with moderate alcohol use. Certain vitamins are vital to repairing and building cells required for bodily functions. Other recovery programs have gyms and fitness centers that you can use at designated times. Both regular exercise and a healthy diet can improve mood, increase energy levels, promote self-confidence and self-esteem, repair tissue and organ damage, and alleviate drug or alcohol cravings.
It also affects your body’s ability to absorb B vitamins and folic acid. It can trigger irritable bowel syndrome, acid reflux, and other gastrointestinal illnesses, too. Taking supplements like vitamin C, NAC, and GABA may help replenish your nutrient stores, potentially reducing your cravings and easing your withdrawal symptoms. As you tax your system by ingesting alcohol, more and more nutrients are needed to help metabolize the nasty by-products of alcohol. As such, your body is leeched of it’s normal reserves of crucial vitamins – especially your B-complex vitamins. Sadly, that’s generally the case with those suffering from alcoholism.
It’s important to select snacks that not only nourish the body but also help to manage cravings and maintain steady blood glucose levels. Inclusion of complex carbohydrates like root vegetables and legumes can aid in balancing serotonin levels, promoting relaxation and well-being. Hydration is also crucial, so individuals should aim to drink plenty of water throughout the day and also fluids with electrolytes. I’ve learned with time, and with the proper information and resources, people can snap out of their addiction cycle and be happy and calm with themselves without mind-altering drugs and habits. And other research shows that long-term vitamin C deficiency contributes to nervousness and emotional instability. And there was a 35% reduction in mood disturbance in hospitalized patients after vitamin C treatment (60, 61).