Foods To Avoid For Alcoholics

Alcoholism is a chronic condition characterized by mental and physical dependence on ethyl alcohol in the form of wine, beer, liqueurs or liquor, according to Dr. James Balch and Phyllis Balch, authors of "Prescription for Nutritional Healing." About 10 percent of alcohol drinkers in the United States are dependent on this drug, note the Balches. Alcoholism can produce negative effects such as depression, malnutrition, peptic ulcers, social problems and work difficulties. The Balches and other natural medicine advocates believe that avoiding certain foods may help minimize the effects of alcoholism. Check with your doctor before altering your diet. Alcoholism is a serious disease that requires medical supervision.

Red Meats

Red meat products, which include beef steaks, ground beef, pepperoni, sausage, bacon and hot dogs, are high in saturated fats, according to the Balches. These fats can increase the stress load on your liver. Your liver may have already sustained damage from chronic alcohol abuse, and may have difficulty processing these fats. Saturated fats also increase your risk for coronary artery diseases, which are common among people who chronically overuse alcohol.

Refined Sugars

Refined sugars, which are found in candy, soft drinks, doughnuts and many packaged food items, may delay recovery from alcoholism. According to Jerry Dorsman, author of "How to Quit Drinking Without AA," your body converts alcohol to sugar, and physical addiction to this sugar contributes to dependence on alcohol. Consuming foods high in refined sugars may sustain this physical addiction, making it more difficult to give up alcohol or stay on a sobriety plan.

Fast Foods

Fast foods are typically laden with saturated fats and trans fats, which can stress your liver, and may increase your already high risk of heart disease caused by chronic alcohol use. Fast food items also typically contain white, refined flours, which your body converts into sugars, according to Dorsman. Additionally, many fast food items, such as breaded chicken and fish, french fries, onion rings and hamburger patties, contain high levels of sodium, which can increase your risk for high blood pressure -- a common problem among alcoholics.