Depletion or Restoration – Nutrition to Help the Balance

Restoring a healthy mind and emotions were my main concern when I started my journey in recovery. I was a ball of confusion and was unaware how much that caused my body to be depleted of health and energy. Despite thinking I was taking care of myself, I was still getting sick a lot.

I was consumed with emotional disturbances and it was tough trying to stay sane and clean. I had little energy to deal with anything else.  Eventually, when things calmed down some, I began to pay more attention to the other aspects affecting my wellbeing.

I began to focus on my food and nutrition. I noticed how sugar and simple carbs were not my friend. They did by all means offer comfort for a time, but I knew if I kept moving in that direction I was only hurting myself further. The number on the scale was starting to be a concern. It was time for me to wake up and not allow my health to decline any further.

A meal at a time, a day at a time and learning to plan made all the difference. I applied tools I learned regarding my addictions which made it easier to stay the course with other lifestyle changes. Being concerned more about restoration and internal healing than instant gratification was a helpful concept for me. I worked with a coach and also began studying nutrition. I soon learned that nutrition is massively important for recovering from addiction as well as all round mental, emotional and physical health.

Depletion of the nutrients from the foods we eat happen for a variety of reasons. Lack of absorption, poor digestion, and lack of the essential amino acids, fatty acids and minerals all cause major problems for us. This along with oxidation of the cells caused by stress and lack of rest reap havoc on our body, mind and spirit.

It is important to note here that stress causes many negative effects on the body. Studies show the oxidation of the cells cause free radicals to occur which may lead to cancer. A natural vitamin E Complex with Selenium is a wise antioxidant choice to help in the possible prevention of cell damage.

The old ideas of hoping we can get away with eating the way we want without consequences, has to be smashed in order to move in the direction of healing and restoration. Ultimately the goal is to offer a better shot at living a long and relatively healthy lifestyle. Of course, we know there are no guarantees. We all are individually designed with our own lifestyles, eating habits, absorption, and DNA. Our best line of defense is prevention, staying mindful and paying attention to what our bodies are telling us.

You may find it surprising that most of the body replenishes and restores itself on a regular basis. That being said, we have the option of helping the body with its internal restoration by offering the body what it needs. Proper nutrition builds a stronger framework of cells, renews our energy and slows down the aging process

Here are a few ideas to help replenish instead of deplete your body.

Drinking purified water first thing in the morning to hydrate the body is invaluable. Some people enjoy a cup or two of warm lemon water. You can also add apple cider vinegar to the water which restores our proper pH balance. Remember to stay well hydrated throughout the day. This alone can reduce many symptoms such as headaches, constipation, fatigue and even lessen depression

Keep in mind that protein snacks are helpful in keeping the blood sugar balanced lessening tiredness throughout the day. Instead of drinking a caffeinated beverage, which plays havoc with our energy levels, have a glass of water and a protein snack and notice the difference!

Adding a protein drink with all the essential amino acids is also a great way to restore our bodies. We lose some during cooking and processing of foods. It is also best to eat only grass fed meats and organic chicken to make sure we are getting quality meat protein.

Did you know that many of us are lacking in iodine? Once a rare problem in the western world, this imbalance is on the increase in North America and across the world. Low iodine levels can cause slow metabolism, slower brain function, depression, anxiety and supressed immune system. Of all foods, seaweed (like kelp), is the most well known and reliable source of natural iodine. Egg and dairy products can also be good sources. You can also take a supplement – perhaps a multivitamin with added iodine.

Add a cold pressed fish oil supplement from the purest waters and eat fortified foods with Omega 3 to get the essential fatty acids your body and brain need to stay healthy. (See article on Brain health on this topic).

Our immune system can be boosted by taking a probiotic daily. Some people have reported that they feel better generally and have more energy and less brain fog while supplementing their diet with a good probiotic. It also helps with lowering candida, an overgrowth of intestinal yeast that is fed by sugar. Do your research on a these produces as they are not all equal.

Like I always say, even the smallest changes make a huge difference. Every journey begins with the first step. You can do it!

Please take advantage of the free consultation at my website.

Here’s to your health!

Disclaimer: The information above are meant to be suggestive only. Any change to your diet plans should always be discussed with your doctor and carefully considered.