Alcohol abuse is one of the most prominent causes of nutritional deficiencies in the United States affecting the body’s metabolism and organ function, according to the National Library of Medicine. Excessive substance abuse prevents the body from processing amino acids, which are “essential for emotional stability, mental clarity, and a general state of well-being” (alcoholicsvictorious.org). Amino acids are found in meat, poultry, and seafood.
According to the Addictions and Recovery website, the first rule of recovery is to avoid “high-risk situations.” The acronym, HALT, describes four everyday experiences that may lead to relapse. “Hunger” leads the way, emphasizing the importance of nutrition as the first letter in the acronym, and is followed by anger, loneliness, and tiredness. Hunger may lead to anger or fatigue because one’s body is accustomed to the feelings induced by substance use. If one becomes accustomed to a healthy diet, their body is less likely to crave the substances it has been ingesting.
It is recommended that people recovering from substance abuse eat at regular mealtimes, abstain from foods that are high in fat, and eat balanced meals. Fluids are also important because dehydration is common during recovery. Casa Palmera recognizes the importance of nutrition and strives to provide healthy, satisfying food for patients in recovery. Not only does Casa offer balanced meals, it focuses on serving them at consistent intervals, with the ultimate goal of educating their patients about healthy eating habits.
Here is a sample of Casa’s breakfast menu, which contains a selection of proteins, carbs, and fats, all of which are essential to a healthy diet:
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