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The Benefits of Nutrition in Recovery

You Are What You Eat

Food plays an important role in how we feel physically and mentally. The common phrase, “you are what you eat,” is a metaphor that, when broken down, means what you put into your body directly impacts how you feel. For example, if you eat healthier, you may notice an improvement in your mood and an increase in your energy. If you eat more fast food, you may feel more sluggish and overall less attentive.

How Substance Use Affects Nutrition

When you struggle with a substance use disorder, proper nutrition often gets put on the back burner. Substances may cause a suppressed or insatiable appetite, less money to spend on healthier food options or forgetfulness to eat at all. This can detrimentally affect your ability to function and think normally, as well as interfere with your overall wellness.

That is why nutrition is a vital component of your recovery journey.

Benefits of Proper Nutrition

Here are some of the benefits proper nutrition can bring you during recovery:

  • Improves mood.
  • Increases energy levels.
  • Boosts immune system.
  • Repairs organ and tissue damage.
  • Improves brain performance.

Learning what food groups to include in your daily meals to ensure you are getting the proper amounts of nutrients and vitamins can be challenging. Working with a nutritionist can help put you on the right path to healthy eating and healing. Together, you and the nutritionist can create a meal plan that works best with your dietary needs and prioritize your health.

What to Eat

Eating balanced meals will give you the nutrients you need in order to feel your best. However, because no two people are alike, “balanced meals” differ depending on the person. In order to know what best meets your individual needs, the U.S. Department of Agriculture created MyPlate Plan, a tool that helps create a personalized food plan just for you.

However, no matter your body type, it is incredibly important to incorporate various fruits, vegetables, starches and carbohydrates, protein, and healthy fats into your daily diet.

Tennessee Wellness Center is Dedicated To Your Wellness

At Tennessee Wellness Center, we see ourselves as more than just your support team; we are a family dedicated to you, your recovery, and your overall wellness. We provide comprehensive alcohol and drug addiction programs and mental health treatment with a family-oriented approach.

To learn more about our effective treatment programs, contact us online or call (865) 205-2770 today.

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