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Vitamins & Supplements for Alcohol Recovery

Alcohol recovery is generally seen as a psychological matter, but studies have shown nutrition plays an essential role as well. According to Joan Matthews Larson, Ph.D., executive director of the Health Recovery Center, poor eating habits and alcohol-related vitamin deficiencies not only affect one's over-all health, but impede the recovery process as well.

  1. Water-Soluble Vitamins

    • Heavy alcohol consumption impedes the body's absorption of certain water-soluble vitamins. Deficiencies of several B vitamins, such as thiamine, riboflavin and folic acid, can lead to anemia, nerve damage, poor absorption, and serious brain disturbances. Some of these conditions can be reversed with vitamin B supplementation, but only if the person stops drinking.

    Fat-Soluble Vitamins

    • Due to liver damage caused by heavy drinking, the body's ability to absorb fat-soluble vitamins such as vitamins A, E, C and K are greatly diminished. Also, because heavy drinkers get much of their dietary intake from alcohol, they have a far greater chance of developing these and other deficiencies than the general population. Fat-soluble vitamin deficiencies can impair night vision, impede wound healing and diminish the body's natural defenses against disease.

    Minerals

    • Mineral deficiencies are common among alcoholics. A lack of zinc, calcium, iron and magnesium occur due to absorption issues, along with increased urination and vomiting, and poor eating habits. These deficiencies can cause issues such as bone disease, night blindness and skin lesions. Therefore, balancing these deficiencies is an important part of alcohol recovery.

    Proteins and Fats

    • According to Dr. Larson, deficiencies in certain proteins and fats can intensify alcohol cravings. In an ABC News story, Larson reports an increased intake of high-protein foods such as fish, chicken and eggs reduces cravings for starches found in alcoholic beverages. She also recommends fatty acids such as those found in olive oil, yogurt and cheese to aid in neurological repair.

    Complex Carbohydrates

    • Replacing refined carbohydrates with complex carbs, which release gradually instead of rapidly, can also help curb alcoholic cravings, according to Dr. Larson.

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