Opioid Addiction | Recovery Support

How Can I Support My Nutrition During Heroin Detox?

ByPines Recovery Life Staff
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How Can I Support My Nutrition During Heroin Detox?

Nutrition is an important part of our everyday life and is especially critical for those who are working to escape the grips of heroin addiction. Heroin use can take a major toll…

Published February 20, 2020 · Reviewed by Sergey Litvinov, MD · ~664 words

Nutrition is an important part of our everyday life and is especially critical for those who are working to escape the grips of heroin addiction. Heroin use can take a major toll on the human body, mentally, physically, emotionally, and nutritionally. Consequently, supplementing one’s nutrition properly is an important aspect of the recovery process and should not be overlooked.

The human body’s ability to function is dependant on the presence of key nutrients: carbohydrates, proteins, fats, vitamins, minerals, and water. If the body does not receive an adequate amount of these nutrients, then the physiological effects can start to be observed in as little as days or weeks. In regards to water intake, even going 1 day without it can cause noticeable effects.

Common Nutritional Deficiencies in Opiate People with addiction

Among individuals that are addicted to or physically dependent on heroin or other opiate substances, deficiencies of key proteins, fats, vitamins, and minerals have been observed. These deficiencies can disrupt the ability to properly and efficiently digest carbohydrates and can lead to issues such as constipation, decreased bone density, slowed metabolism, organ dysfunction, and decreased mental well-being, and obesity.

Proper Nutrients Needed During Heroin Withdrawal

While going through the withdrawal process, a balanced diet can go a long way in lessening the withdrawal symptoms and helping the individual start recovery. A high fiber diet can help create regular, healthy bowel movements. An increase in water intake is important to avoid dehydration that might be caused by sweating, diarrhea, and vomiting during withdrawal. Managing an electrolyte balance can be accomplished by drinking or eating substances high in sodium, potassium, and chloride. Proper liquids are going to become critical for many as there are a number of difficulties when it comes to eating a proper diet during the detox process.

Challenges of Achieving a Proper Diet During Detox

One of the most common symptoms of heroin detox is nausea. Nausea makes it difficult for those in the throes of withdrawal to eat much in terms of solid food. They may either feel turned off by a lot of foods or simply have a tough time keeping food down when they do eat. Foods such as whole grains, vegetables, legumes (lentils), and beans are all great, but if something doesn’t sit right, then switch to another. An IV drip is a great solution to get fluids and some key nutrients but is limited and is not accessible for everyone.

Nutritional Benefits of Residential Detox Treatment

Based on the information above, it should be clear that proper nutrition for individuals detoxing from heroin or other opiates is critical, but is not always easy to achieve. There are many nutritional benefits to completing your addiction treatment at a residential detox facility. As rehab centers provide 24/7 care to those admitted, they also provide all meals and medication. As important as it is, detox is not time to have to focus on making meals. This is why having a team of physicians, nutritionists, and cooks to provide you with the ideal meals to support your recovery is wonderful. Additionally, most detox centers can administer IV fluids. Patients will have access to an on-call doctor that can monitor their wellbeing and prescribe the best supplements to improve nutrition.

Get The Best Nutrition At Pines Recovery Life Detox

At Pines Recovery Life Detox, we ensure that all clients get the best nutritional care while they detox from heroin, fentanyl, or any other opiate. Even having the simple reminder to eat or drink can go a long way through the withdrawal process, but access to IV’s and medications help too. Get the best care by going to a medical detox center that also helps support your nutrition during recovery. Contact Pines Recovery Life Detox today!

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