Four Natural Ways to Help Deal with Opioid Addiction

Withdrawal from alcohol or drug after a history of substance abuse can be hard. The detox process can result in uncomfortable mental and physical symptoms which can make it difficult for the sufferer to remain committed to detoxification and continues treatment. In some cases, sufferers can manage their symptoms by taking medications. But, if medication can pose a relapse risk, it is best to manage the symptoms naturally. These include the following:

Nutrition Management

Substance addiction can affect the nutrition status of the body and changes neurochemistry. According to studies, nutrient deficiency results from substance abuse because of poor eating habits and interference with nutrient metabolism. When opioids are used for an extended period of time, it can damage the intestinal lining, impairing nutrient absorption. People who are addicted to certain substances can experience nutrition deficiencies which can create cravings and mood changes. In turn, this creates a vicious cycle that makes it harder to recover. To curb the mood swings and cravings, sufferers must maintain a healthy diet that is rich in proteins, omega-3 oil, magnesium, and amino acids.

Herbal Solution

Kratom is an herbal extract from the leaves of a Southeast Asia tree. It can be chewed, brewed, or swallowed. This extract can also be used in making a liquid product.  Today, it has been promoted as a solution that can help opiod addiction by making the withdrawal process more manageable for sufferers. Also, it is said to boost energy levels, enhance mood, suppress appetite, relieve pain, and treat cramps. Kratom can help people who are trying to recover from their opioid addiction by making them experience the calming and relaxing effects. Also, the withdrawal process can include bouts of insomnia and fatigue. Fortunately, kratom induces sleep.

Exercise

Experts say that exercise can ease withdrawal symptoms, promote abstinence from substance abuse, and reduce cravings. Exercise stimulates the same reward and pleasure systems in the body that are involved in addiction which makes the need for the substance less prevalent. As a result, exercise can help in lifting feelings of anxiety or depression which may come with physical withdrawal symptoms. Sufferers who exercise are distracted from their discomfort which helps them concentrate on things outside their symptoms.

Mindfulness Practices

These practices include meditation and yoga which both help addiction sufferers in managing stress and experience a state of relaxation through their symptoms. Yoga and meditation can make the withdrawal process easier and prolong abstinence from the substance.