Nutrition for Substance Abuse Recovery

“You are what you eat,” and that’s especially true when you are in recovery. A well-balanced diet is the cornerstone of good health, and you need to build up your health and strength when you’re being treated for drug and alcohol addiction. Good nutrition for recovery is essential, which is why it’s a key component of our addiction treatment programs in Fort Worth, TX.

At Stonegate Center, you’ll discover the healing power of good-for-you foods. It’s part of our whole-person approach to addiction rehabilitation that builds up the body, mind, and spirit. Contact us today to learn more.

How Does Addiction Affects Diet & Nutrition?

Good eating takes a back seat to drugs and alcohol when you’re in the throes of a substance use disorder. This can have a negative effect on your health. Here are some ways substance abuse and nutrition are interlinked:

• Substances, especially alcohol, prevent your body from fully absorbing the nutrients it needs to function at a high level. This malnutrition can make you more susceptible to disease.
• Drugs and alcohol can lower the amount of good bacteria in the gut. This microbiome is necessary for your health. In fact, research indicates that an impaired gut microbiome can lead to a higher risk of diseases such as cancer and obesity.
• Chronic side effects of substance abuse, such as ulcers, frequent vomiting, or diarrhea, also inhibit nutrient absorption.
• Prolonged drug and alcohol use can weaken the immune system. Combined with poor diet, this can lead to health problems down the road.

We provide nutrition for recovering alcoholics and drug users to give them vital sustenance so they can regain their strength. This helps prepare them to move forward into a life of sobriety after treatment.

Our Approach to Nutrition and Addiction Recovery

A healthy diet is just as important as typical treatment therapies, such as counseling or 12-step support groups. That’s why the kitchen is the heart of our gender-separate living quarters. Stonegate Center feeds the body and the soul by combining nutrition and addiction recovery:

• We have a 30-day rotating menu of flavorful, fresh meals.
• Meals feature lean proteins, whole grains, and fruits and vegetables.
• A licensed dietitian reviews each meal for its nutritional ability to counteract the damage caused by addiction.
• A professional chef prepares all meals.
• Allergies and dietary restrictions can be accommodated.