How to Detox From Alcohol (With Food)

When detoxing, hydration is key. However, certain food groups also have benefits when it comes to helping with the discomfort of withdrawal symptoms and detoxification.

Best Foods for Alcohol Detox

Withdrawal from alcohol is different for everyone, and it can last anywhere from a few days to an entire week. Thealcohol detox stage(when your body is ridding itself entirely of alcohol) can last even longer, continuing for a few weeks after withdrawal ends. Fortunately, eating a healthy, nutrient-rich diet can help you reduce many of the uncomfortable effects related to alcohol withdrawal and detox.

Hydration

Whendetoxingfrom alcohol, you’ll likely be told that drinking water is a vital part of the process. During alcohol withdrawal, the body is adjusting to less fluid intake than usual, which is why hydration is so important during detox. Withdrawal symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea and sweating can also contribute to dehydration, but drinking water can help replenish lost fluids.

Alcohol Detox Foods

Certainfoodsalso have benefits when it comes to the discomfort of withdrawal and detoxification. Foods that can aid in the detox process include:

• Fruits and vegetables: Due to their high amounts of fiber, fruits and veggies digest slowly, which helps regulate blood sugar and hunger levels. Additionally, people researchinghome remedies for alcohol withdrawalare often surprised to learn they may crave sweets. Fruits contain sugar, which can fulfill the craving for something sweet without weighing too heavily on a person’s stomach since appetite tends to decrease during the detox stage. Fruit is also hydrating and packed with antioxidant vitamins. Good fruits to snack on or blend into a smoothie include berries, citrus, peaches, melon and bananas.
• Whole grains: Carbohydrates are vital for recovery, as they provide energy and B vitamins that are depleted with heavy alcohol use. Whole grains like oats, brown rice and whole wheat bread are high in fiber, which is good for the gut. Healthy gut bacteria can help support ahealthy liver and kidneys— the body’s most important detox organs.
• Foods containing vitamin B: Prolonged alcohol consumption leads to a lack of vitamin B, so it is important to replenish your body’s supply. Foods high invitamin Binclude salmon, poultry, dairy, leafy greens, beans, lentils and whole grains.
• Proteins low in fat: Many alcoholics in detoxification will have a decreased appetite or simply be turned off by food. Bone broth can be a helpful protein option for those who can’t get food down. For those who can, good sources of protein include seafood, poultry, eggs, soy and lentils.
• Cayenne pepper: Though it may not sound appealing, adding cayenne pepper to foods can reduce alcohol cravings. Cayenne pepper can also aid in decreasingalcohol withdrawal symptomslikestomach upset, nausea and headaches, and it promotes a healthy gut.
• Omega-3 fats: Healthy fatsreduce inflammation, stabilize mood and improve brain function. Salmon, walnuts, chia and flaxseed are rich in omega-3s.

Although eating these foods during detox won’t ensure smooth sailing, they will likely ease the discomfort and cravings that accompany the detox stage. However, in cases where withdrawal symptoms are overly uncomfortable or potentially dangerous, medical detox may be necessary. These programs are offered atprofessional alcohol rehabfacilities like The Recovery Village, and they help make withdrawal a safer and more comfortable process.Contact ustoday to learn more about detox and treatment programs that can help you overcome withdrawal and begin a healthier, alcohol-free future.