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Nonmedical Detox

Nonmedical detox is ridding the body of drugs and alcohol by going cold turkey. This form of detoxification is usually done at a rehab treatment center. Nonmedical detoxification is reserved for patients with mild addictions that don't have severe physical and mental withdrawal symptoms. As part of the recovery process from addictions, the body removes all traces of the drugs and alcohol. For successful long-term recovery with no relapses, the body must be clean of addictive substances before rehab treatment can begin.

  1. Finding a Treatment Center

    • While you can do a nonmedical detoxification on your own, it is probably best to do it at a treatment facility. Not only will you be supervised closely during the detoxification process, but you will also learn methods and techniques for ending your addiction to drugs or alcohol. Most doctors can recommend a nearby facility. Friends and family may also be able to offer referrals. When choosing a facility, it is best to find one whose programs appeal to you and whose costs you can afford. It is important to know what kind of treatment is offered. Some places treat all addictions while others focus on alcohol or drugs. Some deal only with recovery from particular kinds of drugs such as marijuana, cocaine, heroin or prescription drugs. Look for a treatment center that best suits your needs.

    Being Watched for Your Own Safety

    • During a nonmedical detox, you are observed for a 24 to 72 hour period after going cold turkey, or stopping all drug and/or alcohol use. During this time, you have cravings and withdrawal symptoms. This is why a nonmedical detox is best for only milder addictions that allow you to withstand going cold turkey.

    Eating a Healthy Diet

    • Nonmedical detox can last a few days, depending on the person and the level of addiction. For each day of the detox, you are given a very healthy diet. Fruits and vegetables, whole grains and plenty of fluids are a part of the diet. The water flushes out the toxic residue. The fiber-rich foods help with bowel movements. Most toxins and wastes are removed through the colon. The healthy eating allows the patient to get important nutrients while at the same time removing harmful wastes.

    Getting Exercise

    • The toxins from drugs and alcohol usually find their way into the fatty areas of the body where they are stored. Filtering organs such as the kidneys and the liver are also areas where large amounts of toxins accumulate. Through exercise, the body burns the fat which stores the toxins. Because you may be feeling weak because of cravings and mild withdrawal symptoms, exercise is usually low-impact, such as walking, swimming, yoga and stretching. Exercising gives you more energy, increases the blood circulation and gets the muscles moving throughout the body, including the colon, which expands and contracts to facilitate bowel movements and get rid of toxins.

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