How can you stop alcohol cravings? When you’re trying to stay sober, your alcohol cravings can sometimes take over. Did you know that there are some foods that help with alcohol addiction? If you or a loved one are struggling with alcohol cravings, consider creating a diet for alcohol addiction with Washburn House’s help. Contact us at 855.298.3104 today to learn about our alcohol addiction treatment program.
Nutrition for Alcohol Addiction
Switching to a healthier way of eating is one of the best ways to crush your urges. A nutritionally well-balanced diet will help your liver heal from the damage caused by too much alcohol. You may already be familiar with many of the gastrointestinal side effects of too much alcohol. Using alcohol in large amounts can cause you to throw up and have diarrhea. Chronic stomach upset can increase nutrient loss. Alcoholism can also prevent your gut from absorbing nutrients in your diet.
The most important thing is for you to avoid sugar. Your body converts alcohol to sugar, which then spikes your blood sugar levels. As you stop drinking, the resulting lack of sugar will convince your body that you need something sweet. You’ll also want to monitor and reduce your caffeine intake, as that can cause your energy levels to crash as well.
Foods that Help with Alcohol Addiction
How you eat and what you eat will influence your body’s ability to stop alcohol cravings. Here are some tips for curbing alcohol cravings:
Lean Proteins
Protein is a vital part of maintaining your muscular health. It’s also a crucial component linked to the neurotransmitters in your brain that regulate digestion, mood, and sleep. Suitable proteins include chicken and fish.
Nuts and Seeds
Nuts are a substantial source of healthy fat, which can help you establish a stable energy source. Many nuts and seeds are rich in vitamins and minerals that are not prioritized during alcohol consumption.
Dairy
Dairy is another excellent source of protein and potassium. You’ll want to choose low-fat options to keep your calories in control.
High-quality dairy sources can help make up for vitamin deficiencies you might have developed by depending on alcohol too much.
Leafy Greens
Getting enough B vitamins is an essential part of curbing your alcohol cravings. These vitamins help prevent fatigue, produce red blood cells, and metabolize other nutrients in your diet. Leafy greens are one of the best sources of nutrients you can get in your diet. They’re rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants to help combat stress and detox your body.
Whole Grains
When you first stop drinking, your body craves carbohydrates. Alcohol was once a reliable source of carbs for you, so if you can’t get that, your body will look for it in other ways. Whole grains are full of fiber that takes longer to digest. Eating them will help address your cravings without spiking your blood sugar levels.
Adding these foods to your diet can benefit you in the following ways:
- Help reduce alcohol cravings
- Support your liver’s recovery process
- Provide essential nutrients to make up for deficiencies caused by excessive drinking
- Promote better sleep
Contact us at Washburn House today if you want help with creating a meal plan that is customized to fit your needs and goals. Our team will guide you toward the best food choices for the long term.
Stop Alcohol Cravings with Treatment at Washburn House
If you have an alcohol addiction and are struggling to stay sober, Washburn House has a treatment program to support you along the way. We have a dedicated alcohol detox and addiction treatment center to help you get where you need to be. Contact us at 855.298.3104 today to learn more about foods that help with alcohol addiction.