Supplements and Vitamins for Recovering Alcoholics

Niacin (vitamin B-3) can make withdrawal easier, while thiamine (vitamin B-1) is used to decrease fatigue and to increase effective brain functioning and memory 2. Pantothenic acid (vitamin B-5) helps rid your body of alcohol and supports adrenal function. Similar to folic acid, deficiency can be caused by inadequate intake and alcohol inhibiting storage and absorption. But, appropriate vitamins for best vitamins for recovering alcoholics recovering alcoholics are beneficial for the road to recovery. Alcohol can cause malnutrition, malabsorption, and increased urinary excretion of the vitamin, leading to vitamin C deficiency.

What are the most common symptoms of alcohol withdrawal?

In addition, mixing these substances can cause liver strain and gastrointestinal distress. Consult your doctor about drinking and any medications or supplements you are currently taking. One 2019 study found that a significant portion of individuals with AUD admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU) had vitamin C deficiency, with 42% being severely deficient.

What are the signs and symptoms of vitamin B deficiency in drinkers?

The research suggests that vitamin C supplementation, in addition to thiamine, should be considered for these individuals. Here’s what you need to know about the benefits and risks of some of the most common vitamins and minerals. Many people who Twelve-step program are alcoholics, feel depression, the riboflavin helps them to synthesize more dopamine.

Nutrient Deficiencies That Could Be Killing Your Sex Drive

Immediately, I noticed changes in sleep, mood, skin, digestion, energy, and cravings–a complete release from the slog of recovery I have maintained to this day. This is the same program I use with my clients, who report the same results. Alcohol consumption can negatively impact your body’s ability to absorb and utilize essential vitamins and nutrients. Focusing on proper nutrition, including the consumption of omega-3 fatty acids and amino acids, can significantly aid in the alcohol recovery process.

Other recommended B vitamins include B6 and B12, which boost immunity and keep the blood vessels healthy. Nutrient deficiencies can contribute to developing or exacerbating depression and other mood disorders, as the body produces less serotonin7. Since alcohol is a depressant, it can easily worsen depression in an individual who drinks excessively. Collagen supplements are generally considered safe for most people but are not entirely side effect–free.

• They’re likely cooked in unhealthy fats, like saturated and trans fats, and aren’t very nutritious.
• Some studies also show that chronic alcohol intake can affect the gut and lead to digestive problems.
• Supplementing your diet with essential minerals like magnesium, zinc, iron, and calcium is a vital aspect of recovery from alcohol use disorder.
• Eat beans, peas, lentils, pork, brown rice, and fortified foods like breakfast cereal.
• If you’re working on reducing your drinking, milk thistle can be one way to protect your liver from the damaging effects of alcohol.

Additionally, alcohol can block the body’s absorption of many of the nutrients from food. If the food is predominantly junk food, the combined effect is to leave the user malnourished. Signs of vitamin B deficiency in drinkers may include fatigue, weakness, neurological issues like tingling or numbness, memory problems, and mood disturbances. Severe deficiency can lead to conditions like Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome, characterized by confusion, coordination problems, and memory loss.

Additionally, the National Institutes of Health reports alcohol dependence is a major cause of B-vitamin deficiency in the United States. Many of your body’s vital processes rely on these vitamins — collectively referred to as B complex — to function effectively. For the average person who is eating a well-balanced, healthy diet, supplements of vitamins B and C are often unnecessary. However, alcohol abusers will find that a holistic approach to recovery that integrates a nourishing diet and this type of vitamin supplementation helps them through the process. Concentrating on regaining good health can maximize the chances of success in recovery from addiction and set recovering alcoholics on the right path to a new life. During alcohol recovery, your body requires certain amino acids to help restore neurotransmitter function and support overall brain health.

Severe deficiency, called scurvy, may result in anemia, bruising, and dental issues. Taking a vitamin C supplement can help you feel better, which is essential to maintaining your sobriety. Many individuals who drink large quantities of alcohol are deficient in vitamin B1, or thiamine.