Importance of Nutrition in Recovery

By actively pursuing sobriety, you are taking the steps to heal your body, mind, and future. Proper nutrition in recovery is key, as healthy eating habits form the foundation for a healthy life. A balanced relationship with food and eating may not solve every issue, but it will offer you the energy and ability to seek the resolutions you deserve. Whether you are contemplating pursuing recovery, actively engaging in treatment, or years sober, a nutritious diet plants strong roots that allow you to branch out into your life of freedom from addiction.

Healing Your Body With Nutrition in Recovery

What you choose to consume affects your physical well-being, whether positively or negatively. Nonetheless, it is never too late to switch the narrative by replacing the harm of substance abuse with the help of nourishment. According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), “It’s important to eat a variety of fruits, vegetables, grains, protein foods, and dairy and fortified soy alternatives.”

Given the following descriptions, a healthy diet provides an adequate balance of each nutrient group.

• Macronutrients
  • Proteins, carbs, and fats
  • Serve as the body’s main source of energy
  • Uphold proper structure and functions throughout the body
• Micronutrients
  • Vitamins and minerals
  • Aid in regulating internal processes such as metabolism.

While there may not be a perfect equation to determine each person’s exact needs, it can be beneficial to ask an expert for guidance, especially while healing from addiction. Each meal at LifeSpring Home Nutrition is intentionally planned and prepared to meet your nutritional and personal needs. The on-staff nutritionist is accessible to assist you in your journey of healing.

Healing Your Mind With Nutrition in Recovery

In many cases, repairing physical health may be the priority at the beginning stages of recovery. For instance, If a car runs out of gas, you wouldn’t spend your time trying to fix a GPS that isn’t even on. Instead, you would prioritize starting the vehicle by filling the tank. In the same way, the human body requires fuel to perform basic cognitive functions.

When the brain is not properly stimulated, it is challenging to think and react adequately. Brain fog can heighten symptoms of depression and anxiety, further complicating the recovery process. As a malnourished body begins to heal, the next step is to strengthen the mind.

It is essential to support sobriety efforts with a nutritious diet. Improved brain function empowers individuals in recovery, enabling them to discover and develop their true goals and values. Additionally, nourishment provides the strength and stamina to learn, recall, and implement the coping skills necessary for the healing process.

How Nutrition Supports Neuroplasticity

Proper nutrition in recovery supports neuroplasticity, the process that allows for structural and functional brain changes. According to Neuroplasticity by Matt Puderbaugh and Prabhu D. Emmady, “These changes can either be beneficial (restoration of function after injury), neutral (no change) or negative (can have pathological consequences).”

When an addiction develops, neuroplasticity is damaged as the mind adapts to the effects of substances. In turn, it becomes increasingly difficult to adapt to the needed changes for healthy living. Consequently, substance use disorders (SUD) can disrupt chemical processes, tricking the brain out of forming new connections.

After neuropathways are trained to seek comfort from substances for months or years, it will take time and energy to rewire the brain. The good news is a healthy diet offers the proper nutrients to increase plasticity in the brain. Consuming a balance of macros and micros can support brain function, aid in chemical production, and reduce cravings.

Building Your Future With Nutrition in Recovery

Just as recovery is a life-long journey, a healthy relationship with food isn’t formed overnight. Proper nutrition is not a one-and-done decision; it is a choice one makes every day. Each meal is an opportunity to embrace nourishment and healing. Fortunately, it is never too early or too late to choose life.

Even if you have been on the road to recovery for a while, you still deserve and require fuel. It is important to maintain and uphold the work you have done to remove addiction from the center of your life. Healing is a family effort, and your loved ones will also benefit from life-enhancing nutrition. A healthy diet enhances physical and mental health, sustaining a long-term recovery.

Nutrition at LifeSpring Home Nutrition

Whether in treatment or further along in recovery, it is common and acceptable to require guidance and advice regarding your dietary needs. In the same way, it may be beneficial to follow an individualized meal plan or eating schedule as you gain back strength and awareness. LifeSpring Home Nutrition understands the importance of independence and individuality in your recovery.

Each meal is tailor-made to fit your needs, whether that’s a grab-and-go lunch for work or a comfort meal for the whole family. As you continue down the path of healing, you are never alone. Recovery is a battle, and an intentionally balanced diet can serve as just the reinforcement you need to win the war.

Proper nutrition is instrumental to healthy living, especially for those in recovery. Whether you are taking the first steps toward healthy living or further along in your journey, a balanced diet can support your efforts. Not only does nourishment improve and uphold physical health, but it enables individuals to maintain proper brain function. Here at LifeSpring Home Nutrition, we have supported individuals on their healing journeys for over a decade with our frozen meal delivery service. Every meal is intentionally planned and cooked with healthy, fresh, and delicious ingredients. We value your feedback and want to help you create a meal plan of your choice. Call us today at (800) 798-5767 for more information about our resources and services.