The best addiction treatment integrates substance use disorder treatment with the restoration of whole body health. One of the key aspects of overall well-being is eating a balanced diet of nutrient-rich whole foods. In the course of prolonged substance abuse, the body is depleted of essential vitamins, minerals, and nutrients. Without the support of a healing diet, detox and withdrawal symptoms are exacerbated, making the recovery process more painful than necessary.
At Oceanfront Recovery, we understand that nutrition is a vital component in treating addiction. Our experienced and skilled chefs provide clients with sensational cuisine and can cater to various cultures, desires, and dietary needs. Contact us at 877.296.7477 to experience a nourishing recovery.
The Importance of Integrating Whole Foods for Recovery
Contrary to popular belief, leaning into overly processed and sugar-laden foods during the early stages of addiction recovery can actually interfere with the body’s efforts to heal. Integrating whole foods for recovery into the treatment process can lend significantly to a successful recovery. Healing the gut-brain with nourishing food helps the body integrate and adapt to positive changes more quickly and effectively.
The prolonged use of substances diminishes the body’s immune system and capacity to store nutrients, which leads to poor mental and physical health. A crucial component of addiction recovery is connecting the dots between nutrition and overall health and utilizing food to rebalance and heal the body.
A quality addiction treatment program will integrate the best recovery foods into balanced meals and snacks as well as offer the support of a nutritionist to aid clients in learning to understand how to optimize their own diets for health and longevity.
Optimizing Addiction Treatment with the Best Recovery Foods
The best foods for addiction recovery are whole foods cooked fresh with minimal processing. Whole foods remain the best and most significant source of essential vitamins and minerals available.
The best recovery foods are high in Antioxidants which restore the immune system and speed the body’s natural detoxification process.
Optimal foods for treating substance abuse disorders are also rich in amino acids, including Gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA). Boosting GABA makes the nervous system less excitable and helps to stabilize the central nervous system.
Integrating foods with a high density of L-glutamine, tryptophan, and tyrosine can aid the recovery process. These three amino acids are essential amino acids that boost the immune system, reduce sugar cravings, and assist in boosting serotonin and dopamine. Dopamine and serotonin boost energy levels, reduce apathy and depression symptoms, and promote a positive, stable mood.
Some specific foods that are incredibly full of antioxidants, GABA boosting compounds, L-glutamine, tyrosine, and tryptophan include:
- Berries
- Pecans
- Onions, shallots, and leeks
- Artichokes
- Spinach
- Cabbage
- Avocados
- Beet
- Radish
- Sweet potatoes, squash, and pumpkin
- Collard greens, mustard greens, and kale
- Whole grains (quinoa, spelt, sorghum, oats, rice)
- Flax, hemp, sunflower, and pumpkin seeds
- Cumin, turmeric, ginger, nutmeg, clove, and cinnamon
- Brussel sprouts
- Papaya
- Banana
- Mango
- Fish
- Cheese
- Yogurt, Keifer
- Eggs
- Beans
- Lentils
- Lamb
- Turkey
- Soybeans
Find Holistic Recovery at Oceanfront
At Oceanfront Recovery, we’re committed to nourishing every aspect of recovery with a balanced menu of whole foods and comprehensive treatment programs in a comfortable, scenic, and rejuvenating setting. Our facilities are a short walk from the beach in Laguna Beach, CA. We are dedicated to making treatment accessible, affordable, and effective. We offer a beautifully and therapeutically furnished intimate space where clients can relax and feel free to focus on themselves and recovery.
If you or a loved one are ready for recovery or have more questions about the process, please reach out to us. Our dedicated and passionate team of experienced professionals is here for you. To learn more or enroll in a treatment program, contact us at 877.296.7477.
