While substance abuse creates an illusory sense of temporary well-being, in the end, it can severely damage physical, psychological, and spiritual health. Research has shown that individuals with substance addictions may very likely be suffering from an assortment of one or more metabolic disorders such as hypoglycemia, hypothyroidism, vitamin B deficiency, and mineral deficiencies. The benefits of vitamin B Complex for those in recovery are that it restores the natural balance of the vitamins which have been burnt up with substance abuse.
People who are dependent on drugs or alcohol cannot voluntarily cut down or stop, and develop a physical tolerance, which means they require increasingly large amounts to become intoxicated. This addictive type of substance abuse will chemically disrupt many naturally occurring vitamins and minerals which promote a healthy brain and nervous system. For example, Thiamine (B1) deficiency is common in long-term alcohol abuse and over time, has the potential to cause nerve damage without treatment.
Vitamin B complex plays an important role in keeping our bodies running well, providing energy to our metabolic system, and nervous systems, and giving fuel to our neurotransmitters, encouraging our decision-making and reflex ability. The deficiency of B vitamins in people who use excessive amounts of sugar, caffeine, alcohol, or drugs can contribute to withdrawal symptoms and is believed to be part of the physiological draw to addictive substances.
Nutritionists, like those we have available at The Discovery House, can arrange meal plans and supplement suggestions to assist clients in beginning to get their bodies’ natural rhythms restored. Whole grains, peanuts, beans, spinach, kale, almonds, wild rice, milk, yogurt, eggs, Brussels sprouts, spinach, and soybeans are all food rich in B-vitamins. The benefits of vitamin B Complex are optimal neurological functioning of the brain, increased memory and concentration, and promotion of antioxidants and digestive functioning. To achieve a healthy balance in recovery, it’s important to include a nutritional evaluation, and treat the body and mind with care.