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6 Healthy Food Items to Consume when You’re Detoxing from Alcohol

By on July 12, 2019
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By the contributors of Addictions.com

If you drink more than the recommended guidelines of alcohol for women, even making small changes to the amount you drink can help to reduce the amount of havoc that alcohol can wreak on your body. The less you drink, the less risk your body is at risk.

One way you can help your body through the alcohol detox process is by feeding it with nourishment. During the detox phase, your body responds accordingly based on what you put in it. Certain food groups benefit your body when cutting back on or eliminating alcohol and can help to alleviate some of the discomforts and withdrawals that might accompany the process.

Water

Water plays a huge role in a safe and effective alcohol detox. Try to get at least eight 8 oz. glass of water daily to ensure your body stays properly hydrated and to effectively flush toxins from your body.

Fruits and Vegetables

Eating bright and colorful fruits and vegetables are filled with fiber and can be quickly digested, making it easier for your body to quickly flush alcohol from your system. They contain carotenoids that act as antioxidants and can fight free radicals, including toxins found in alcohol.

Include fruits and veggies like the following during your alcohol detox:

  • Blueberries
  • Oranges
  • Bell peppers
  • Strawberries
  • Tomatoes
  • Apricots
  • Carrots
  • Pineapple
  • Figs

Dark Leafy Greens

Dark leafy greens are full of vitamin B9 (or folate), which is an essential vitamin that is depleted from your body as a result of prolonged alcohol consumption. They are also chock full of calcium, vitamin C, iron and vitamin K. Anemia is another risk of individuals who struggle with alcoholism, which can be combatted with these superfoods that can be eaten in salads and added to smoothies for an extra antioxidant-filled punch!

Load these leafy greens into your diet for their excellent detox benefits:

  • Swiss chard
  • Kale
  • Arugula
  • Chicory
  • Spinach
  • Romaine lettuce
  • Collard greens

Complex Carbs

Complex carbohydrates are vital for recovery. They offer energy, which may be lacking after prolonged or excessive alcohol use. Complex carbs can also help to promote good digestion, boosting metabolism and helping to flush alcohol from your system.

It is important to understand the difference between complex carbs and refined carbs. Refined carbohydrates do not really offer any nutritional benefits and, aside from offering a quick energy boost, they are loaded with sugar that can ultimately lead to sugar crashes and lack of energy.

Complex carbs can be found in a variety of foods, including:

  • Peas
  • Whole grains
  • Sweet potatoes
  • Pumpkin
  • Hummus
  • Beans
  • Lentils

Low Fat Protein

Detoxing without protein is hard. Protein-deficient diets actually impair detox pathways within the liver and lack amino acids, which are essential to detoxification. Additionally, protein-filled foods help your body to better absorb certain vitamins and minerals, which may be lacking after drinking a lot. Low fat protein is also beneficial for boosting energy levels, improving concentration and boosting mental clarity, each of which your body will likely need after prolonged alcohol consumption.

Low fat proteins include:

  • Chicken
  • Fish
  • Turkey
  • Beans
  • Eggs
  • Almonds
  • Greek yogurt

Cayenne Pepper

Adding a dash of cayenne pepper to foods can reduce alcohol cravings and increase appetite, which is important because an alcohol-suppressed appetite can result in a lack of vital nutrients being absorbed. Cayenne has also been shown to help reduce nausea as well as other symptoms associated with alcohol detox and withdrawal.

By including any or all of these healthy foods in your diet, whether you are trying to detox or cut back a bit on alcohol use, your body will reap many benefits!

 

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