Some people like to call it “balancing nutrition in recovery as an addict.” Others prefer to call it “eating for maintenance.” Whatever you want to call it, it is important that you take into account the proper ratios of protein, carbohydrates, and healthy fats in your diet post-recovery. If you do not, it is quite possible that you will suffer from nutritional deficiencies and serious health problems in the future. As a recovering addict, your best defense against nutritional deficiencies may be getting off to a good start by eating a healthy food plan. In this article, we will discuss how you can balance nutrition in recovery.
Various Ways You Can Balance Nutrition in Recovery
Start slowly
Making major changes to your diet too quickly can make it difficult for you to be fully nourished. A slow transition into a new diet can give your body time to adapt and become accustomed to the new foods while giving you time to learn which vitamins and minerals are missing from your diet.
Take Into Account Your Individual Needs
Everyone’s nutritional needs are different, so it is important that you consider how much each food provides for your particular nutritional needs (i.e., how much protein, how much fiber, etc.). By eating enough food to give your body what it needs to function at its peak, you will be able to avoid nutritional deficiencies.
Eat a Variety of Foods
Your body is made up of millions of different cells, and each one needs specific vitamins and minerals to function properly. By eating a wide variety of different whole foods (i.e., fruits, vegetables, meats, dairy products, etc. ), you can give your body the nutrients it needs to function well.
Consider Your Metabolism
The nutrition needs of a person who is overweight will be different from the needs of a person who is underweight. Consider how your metabolism affects how much energy you need to maintain proper weight and energy levels (i.e., if you are underweight, you may need to eat more food than someone who already has a healthy weight).
Eat a High-Fiber Meal
The digestive system breaks down high-fiber foods into smaller pieces, which can leave you feeling fuller and more satisfied. Fiber also works to keep your digestive system regular, which can help prevent constipation and allow the body to eliminate toxins. This will ultimately help you maintain a healthy weight.
Try to Eat Protein With Every Meal
Protein is essential for growth and development and is an important component in maintaining a healthy immune system and muscle mass. Protein is what helps your body to recover from injuries and maintain muscle tone, so it is important that you eat a significant source of protein at every meal.
Get Enough Calcium
Calcium is necessary for bone strength and growth and helps the muscles contract and maintain a healthy nerve system. Calcium is crucial for maintaining good health, especially for children and teenagers when bones are developing rapidly. An adult should consume at least 1,200 mg of calcium each day to remain healthy.
Get Enough Iron
Iron is what gives the body’s blood cells their red color and helps them to transport oxygen throughout the body. Iron deficiency is fairly common, particularly among women of childbearing age and menstruating women, but it can also affect children, the elderly, and vegetarians. Consequences of an iron deficiency can include fatigue, loss of cognition, heart palpitations, brittle nails, and susceptibility to infection. A healthy diet rich in fruits and vegetables high in vitamin C helps the body absorb more iron from foods.
Get Enough Zinc
Zinc helps the body to heal wounds, build proteins, and maintain a healthy immune system. Zinc is necessary for the body to heal properly and maintain a healthy reproductive system and sense of smell, taste, and touch. While zinc can be found in a wide variety of foods (such as seafood, legumes, eggs, whole grains, etc.), it can be more difficult for the body to absorb from plant sources than other metals such as iron and copper.
Get Enough Omega-3 Fats
Omega-3 fats are essential for normal brain function and can be found in oily fish (tuna, salmon, and halibut), walnuts, flaxseeds, and leafy greens. Omega-3s are crucial for the development of the human brain, so it is important that you get enough of this nutrient in early life. Deficiencies are associated with depression and aggression. In conclusion, there are many ways to be healthy and balanced in recovery, but it is important that you take into account your own needs, as well as the needs of your body. You can get a good foundation for your diet by eating a wide variety of unprocessed foods, making sure to eat at least one serving of protein at every meal, and taking time to learn about which vitamins and minerals are missing from your diet. If you need any help,our counselors are available 24 hours a day. Call 732-392-7311.