Substance abuse harms your body with toxins and the poor lifestyle choices that accompany the substance abuse, such as an unhealthy diet and lack of exercise. Substance abuse recovery can also harm your body because it places stress on the body's metabolic system and organs, not to mention your mental state. Abuse of opiates, such as heroin, particularly impacts the digestive system, and constipation is a common problem. Opiate withdrawal symptoms include vomiting, diarrhea and nausea, which can cause poor nutrient absorption and mineral deficiencies, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Eating a nutrient-rich diet and consuming vitamin supplements during recovery may help you restore your body's well-being.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that protects tissues and organs in the body from damage by free radicals that are produced by toxins. As the body detoxes from drug abuse, toxins will release from the liver and other organs, and may cause further damage before they are completely excreted from the body. This vitamin also supports the immune system. The recommended dose of vitamin C for substance abuse detoxification is 2,000 to 3,000 mg per day, taken in divided doses.
Multivitamin
A multivitamin with plenty of minerals is essential for obtaining the overall nutrition support during detoxification. Minerals are often lost due to digestive problems in the initial stages of recovery. The Drug Policy Detoxification Groups recommend taking multivitamins in gel capsule form for optimal absorption. The organization also recommends that some patients should double the dose for the first three to four weeks, until the body has achieved relative homeostasis.
Vitamin E
Like vitamin C, vitamin E is an antioxidant that protects the cells from damage by inhibiting the development of free radicals, which is important function during the detoxification process. The recommended dose is 200 IU daily. Deficiencies are common because food sources usually contain the gamma-tocophero form of vitamin E, and the body primarily uses alpha-tocopherol, a form found in the majority of vitamin E supplements, according to nutritionist Phyllis Balch, author of "Prescription for Nutritional Healing." Food sources of vitamin E include olive oil, canola oil, avocados, greeny leafy vegtables, nuts, seeds, whole grains, kelp and legumes.
References
- Drug Policy Education Group: Methadone/Opiate Withdrawal
- Linus Pauling Institute: The Micronutrient Center: Vitamin C
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Substance Abuse Recovery and Diet
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing"; Phyllis A. Balch, CNC; 2010
