When you’re addicted to drugs or alcohol, it’s dangerous for your body on many levels. One of the most serious consequences of substance abuse is that it often leads to significant physical ailments. Fortunately, there are plenty of ways to heal from the damage caused by drugs and alcohol. The human body has an incredible capacity for self-repair. A major key to utilizing that is finding the right balance between rest, nutrition, and exercise. With this in mind, let’s look at some practical advice to help you physically recover from substance abuse.
Regular Exercise
Exercise is one of the most important aspects of recovering from substance abuse. Regular exercise boosts your immune system, helps you sleep better, improves your mood, and reduces anxiety. Exercise also promotes healthy metabolism and regulates blood sugar levels. In addition, physical activity increases the release of endorphins in the body, which improves your mood and helps you cope with stress.
Studies show that regular exercise can play a huge role in reducing cravings and helping you avoid relapse. If you are recovering from substance abuse, it’s best to avoid high-impact sports such as running, which can damage your joints and put you at risk of injury. Instead, look for low-impact activities that put less stress on your joints, such as swimming, cycling, or yoga.
Proper Nutrition
A nutritious diet can help you recover from substance abuse and avoid relapse. Nutrient-rich foods help boost your immune system, regulate appetite and metabolism, reduce cravings for drugs and/or alcohol, and promote quicker healing. A balanced diet can also help you avoid weight gain. The best way to incorporate a healthy diet into your life is to make changes gradually. Start by removing processed foods from your diet and replacing them with whole grains and fresh produce. Make sure you get enough protein in your diet by including foods like eggs, fish, dairy, and beans in every meal.
Stabilization and Recovery
After you’ve experienced professional treatment in a facility like The Guest House, you may notice minor health issues as your body recovers from substance abuse. You may experience nausea, diarrhea, dizziness, or insomnia as your body works to restore normal functioning. These issues should subside on their own. Make sure to take care of yourself and avoid stressing yourself out, as this can slow down the recovery process.
Most importantly, listen to professionals that are helping you on your path to recovery. Get plenty of sleep. Drink plenty of water and eat a balanced diet to help your body recover. Try to avoid stressful situations, as these can trigger cravings and put you at risk of relapse. By incorporating regular exercise, a nutritious diet, and a stress-reducing activity into your daily routine, you can speed up the healing process and ensure a full recovery.
When you’re ready to get help for an addiction, it can be difficult to know where to start. Recovery centers like The Guest House offer a safe environment where you can focus on your recovery and health. They can also give you the tools and knowledge you need to continue the healing process once you leave and re-enter day-to-day living. The sooner you or someone you love makes the decision to begin healing, the better. Please call (855) 483-7800 for more information.