Substance use can take a toll on how a person’s mind and body work. Not only can drug use damage vital organs, but people who are in active addiction are less likely to make good dietary choices. At The Pavilion, in Williamsburg, Virginia, we treat substance use and mental health disorders. Nutritional consultation is one of the services we offer our patients because we know that recovering from addiction means more than just refraining from substance use.
Common Nutritional Deficiencies Cause By Drug Use
The substances that a person uses impact their bodies in different ways. It is important to take steps to address the deficiencies a person’s body may have to optimize their future well-being. This might mean increasing fluid intake, eating differently, and taking supplements, in addition to avoiding future substance use.
Nicotine-Related Deficiencies
Although tobacco is often forgotten when people talk about misuse of substances, it is still a dangerous drug that creates problems in the body. Nicotine use can reduce a person’s levels of B Vitamins, Vitamin C, Vitamin D, Vitamin E, selenium, and zinc.
These deficiencies can lead to problems with your:
- Eyes
- Iron levels
- Heart
- Lungs
- Circulation
As a result of these problems, you may experience:
- Fatigue
- Bone and muscle pain
- Hair loss
- Diarrhea
- Sexual dysfunction
- Mood changes
It is generally recommended that people with a history of smoking eat lots of fruits and vegetables that are rich in Vitamin C, such as broccoli, green peppers, tomatoes, and citrus fruits. Their doctor may also recommend a Vitamin C supplement.
Alcohol-Related Deficiencies
Sometimes people forget that just because alcohol is legal, that does not mean it is safe. It is a dangerous, addictive substance that can create nutritional deficiencies when consumed in high volumes over a prolonged period of time. Some of these include deficiencies in Vitamin A, B vitamins, Vitamin C, Vitamin E, amino acids, and zinc.
These deficiencies can lead to problems with your:
- Eyes
- Liver
- Nerves
- Brain
- Bones
- Blood
As a result of these problems, you may experience:
- Weight loss
- Muscle loss
- Difficulty seeing and driving at night
- Lost ability to taste and smell
- Fatigue
- Reduced immune response
- Gas, constipation, diarrhea, and other gastrointestinal issues
People with a history of heavy alcohol use are often advised to eat frequent, small meals that include whole grains, dairy, protein and healthy fats. Their doctor may recommend Vitamin A and other supplements.
Opioid-Related Deficiencies
Most people recognize that opioids are harmful, but they may not realize just how they deplete the body of the resources it needs to function normally. People who misuse opioids are most likely lacking sufficient B Vitamins, Vitamin C, potassium, selenium, zinc, calcium, magnesium, and folate.
These deficiencies can lead to problems with your:
- Colon
- Liver
- Bones
- Skin
- Brain
As a result of these problems, you may experience:
- Constipation
- Heartburn
- Nausea/vomiting/stomach pain/bloating
- Dementia
- Skin diseases
- Broken bones
People who have used opioids may be advised to eat lots of protein and to replace sweets with fresh or frozen fruits. Probiotics and omega-3 fatty acid supplements may be suggested by their doctor.
Stimulant-Related Deficiencies
People who misuse stimulants are likely to have issues related to not consuming enough water or food, which can lead to:
- Dehydration
- Low electrolytes
- Dental issues
- Depression and anxiety
- Heart problems
As a result of these problems, you may experience:
- Difficulty chewing
- Weight loss
- Brain fog
Water may be recommended in place of caffeinated drinks in people who have used stimulants, and also a well-balanced diet with sufficient portions of fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, whole grains, and dairy.
Long-Term Nutritional Needs
Regardless of what substances a person may have used, to optimize their healing from addiction, people in recovery should prioritize their nutrition. This includes:
- Maintaining consistent mealtimes
- Ensuring proper carb intake to maintain stable blood sugar and mood
- Ensuring they have adequate amino acids to keep dopamine and serotonin levels stable, allowing them to regulate emotions and better manage cravings
- Having appropriate amounts of dietary fats to fight depression and inflammation
- Staying hydrated for mental health and good decision-making.
At The Pavilion, we recognize that our patients are far more than their addiction. We know that the mind, body, and spirit must all be healthy to maintain long-term sobriety. We provide whole-person care that is trauma-informed, evidence-based, and tailored to the unique needs of each person we serve.
