A healthy diet to overcome alcoholism helps restore nutrients lost from long-term drinking. Alcoholism can lead to deficiencies in pyridoxine or vitamin B6, thiamine and folic acid. These and other nutritional deficiencies caused by both neglect and the affects of alcohol itself can result in anemia and neurological problems. Damage to the liver and pancreas may occur from alcoholism and cause imbalances of fluid, calories and electrolytes in the cells and blood. Prolonged alcoholism can prevent proper absorption of nutrients that may lead to Korsakoff's syndrome, a brain disorder. A tailored nutritional strategy can overcome and improve many of these maladies.
Poor Food Choices
Much of the alcoholic's diet includes unhealthy fats and sugars, along with high alcohol intake, because of dietary neglect. As alcoholic consumption increases, diet quality gets worse, according to an analysis of studies involving 15,000 adults in the United States by researchers at the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, the National Cancer Institute and the US Department of Agriculture. The research, published in the April 2010 issue of the "Journal of the American Dietetic Association," indicates poorer food choices are made as people drink more alcohol. Alcohol abuse and poor diet may contribute to heart disease and cancer, according to Dr. Kenneth R. Warren, an acting director with the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism.
Eating Plan
Long-term, heavy drinkers may find eating difficult when they first stop drinking because they have avoided a healthy diet for so long. Medical supervision and medication may play a role in the initial stage of recovery as the alcoholic begins eating nutritious foods again. As the appetite eventually improves, a low-fat diet within regularly scheduled mealtimes helps return the alcoholic to normal eating patterns. Healthy food makes recovering alcoholics feel better so they are less likely to relapse, the University of Maryland Medical Center notes.
Healthy Foods
A healthy diet to overcome alcoholism includes protein, complex carbohydrates and high fiber, the University of Maryland Medical Center explains. Lean meats, skinless poultry and fish provide protein. Whole-grain bread and cereal, rice, potatoes, oatmeal and oat bran contain complex carbohydrates. Whole grains, fruits and vegetables have high-fiber content. Drinking plenty of liquids at mealtime and throughout the day helps reduce dehydration that may be one result of alcoholism.
Snacks
Recovering alcoholics should limit intake of sugar and junk food, notes the University of Michigan Health System. Snacking may, however, lessen the urge for alcohol. Low-fat sweets can help initially, but any snack to avoid the possibility of a relapse may work effectively. Gaining a few pounds outweighs the dangers of alcoholism and can be remedied with dietary changes as time goes on.
Supplements
Doctors may prescribe thiamine supplements during the withdrawal period, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. A thiamine deficiency can result from prolonged alcoholism and may cause brain damage that leads to memory impairment. Vitamin C and B vitamin supplements help supply nutrients during the early stages of recovery. Minerals such as selenium, magnesium and zinc also help in a healthy diet to overcome alcoholism.
Herbs
Milk thistle extract may help to repair damage to the liver from alcohol abuse. The herbal remedy may block harmful toxins from entering the liver and remove toxins from the liver, according to the University of Michigan. Kudzu extract may help recovering alcoholics deal with alcohol cravings. Consistent scientific data show milk thistle may have health benefits. Kudzu has been used traditionally, but lacks significant scientific backup. Herbs may cause side effects and interact with supplements or medications, the University of Maryland Medical Center says. Doctors can offer advice and recommendations when adding herbs to the diet.
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