What to Eat During Heroin Detox

We see more and more people desperately struggling with heroin addiction across the country. Getting over a heroin detox is not easy because of the painful withdrawal symptoms. If you’ve decided to take this important step to get healthy, creating a “detox menu” for yourself will help speed the process along. If you’re wondering what to eat during a heroin detox, then you’re already on the right track in being successful with your detox. Some specific types of food are better options than others.

Most importantly, it’s crucial to stay hydrated because a lack of water flushing the liver’s tissues can interfere with the body’s ability to remove toxins.

Healthy Foods for Heroin Withdrawal

So, you’re ready to get off heroin once and for all. Whether you’ll be in a medical detox program or are trying to do it on your own, you will most likely be able to choose from a selection of dietary choices. Here are some suggestions to ensure that your heroin detox goes smoothly as you nurse your body back to health!

• Eat your fruits and veggies – getting the necessary vitamins, phytonutrients, and antioxidants from fruits and vegetables is important. You can have fun with this! Don’t love bananas? Try apples. Were you never fond of spinach as a child? Try cucumber or tomatoes. Eating five cups of fruit per day is recommended and optimal, although many people fall below this threshold because of their drug abuse.
• Get your proteins – protein is the building block of muscle and is in many of the healthiest foods. Keeping your protein intake up during a heroin detox will help the body repair tissues on a cellular level. The best protein sources for a drug detox are many of the tasty fish out there, such as salmon, because they are lean and rich in complete proteins. As a plus, they contain healthy omega-3 fatty acids.
• Healthy Fats – the importance of healthy fats (omega 3’s) can’t be overstated. If it’s difficult for you to get them from the food you have available, you can take omega-3 supplements and it will be very beneficial. Some foods that contain omega-3 fatty acids include many varieties of fish like mackerel (tasty & nutritious), salmon (we covered this under proteins), herring, and oysters. If you’re not fond of fish, you can also get these healthy fats from flax seeds, chia seeds, and walnuts.
• Our special mention is…Chocolate! Yes, chocolate is the best “snack” imaginable when you’re going through heroin withdrawal. Try to go with the dark variety if possible, which is healthier. Chocolate releases natural “feel-good” endorphins which will make you feel better during the otherwise uncomfortable heroin detox.

Sample Recipe for Heroin Detox

You don’t need to become a master chef to create a nutritious meal that will help you get through your opiate detox. For example, try making gingery salmon with peaches which only takes 20 minutes and requires a handful of ingredients. This simple recipe combines salmon (protein + healthy fats) plus fruit for a blast of vitamins and antioxidants to make you feel better.

Balanced Diet

During heroin detox, it’s important to focus on a balanced diet that helps the body recover and manage withdrawal symptoms. Here are some key points to consider:

1. Hydration: Staying hydrated is crucial. Water, herbal teas, and electrolyte-replenishing drinks can help maintain fluid balance and ease withdrawal symptoms.
2. Nutrient-Rich Foods: Opt for foods high in vitamins and minerals. Fresh fruits and vegetables, lean proteins, whole grains, and nuts are excellent choices.
3. Small, Frequent Meals: Withdrawal symptoms might affect appetite. Eating small, frequent meals can help maintain energy levels and provide constant nutrient intake.
4. Avoiding Processed Foods: Processed and sugary foods can lead to energy crashes and mood swings. They should be limited.
5. Fiber: High-fiber foods like whole grains, fruits, and vegetables can help with digestive issues that might accompany detox.
6. Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Foods rich in omega-3s, like fish, flaxseeds, and walnuts, can support brain health and mood regulation.
7. Protein: Adequate protein intake is vital for tissue repair and overall health. Lean meats, fish, tofu, beans, and eggs are good protein sources.
8. Comfort Foods: In moderation, certain comfort foods can help improve mood and provide a sense of well-being.
9. Avoiding Alcohol and Caffeine: These can exacerbate withdrawal symptoms and hinder the detox process.

Remember, each individual’s needs may vary, especially in a detox situation. It’s important to consult a healthcare professional or a nutritionist for personalized advice. They can provide guidance tailored to the specific needs and health conditions of the person undergoing detox.

What Not to Eat During Drug Detox

There are certain foods you should stay away from during a heroin detox because they could make the experience worse. Junk foods are not beneficial because your body is depleted of nutrients and needs foods rich in vitamins/minerals. Junk food is full of unhealthy fat and sugars, while healthy foods often provide a good dose of fiber, which helps keep the digestive system and lowers blood sugar. Lastly, spicy foods could be a no-no for many people because the taste can be too hot/uncomfortable, especially when you already have a low appetite while detoxing.

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Published on: 2018-02-07
Updated on: 2024-06-21