A person who has become chemically dependent on alcohol almost certainly has experienced some damage to the liver. The level of harm depends on several factors, such as genetics, how long the individual has been drinking excessively, and how much alcohol is consumed per day. Often, most or all of the damage can be reversed. Healing the liver can be accomplished by ending alcohol use and focusing on the intake of healthy foods and beverages. With the goal to quit drinking for good, the person can read details from ARC Rehab about one effective treatment center.
Residential rehab centers provide tasty, nutritious meals for their clients. Healthy snacks like fruit and nuts usually are available at any time of the day. Rehab participants usually are allowed to indulge in comfort food to a certain extent, since they are already dealing with a new restriction in their life that can feel like a very difficult challenge.
Drinking Plenty of Water
One of the most important actions for healing the liver after alcohol abuse is to drink plenty of water. People in general are advised to drink nearly 2 liters of water every day, but it’s improbable that most accomplish this regularly. For healing the liver, drinking this much at a minimum is crucial. The liver is responsible for processing toxins, and it has been managing toxic alcohol for a long time. Having plenty of water in the body helps the liver cleanse itself along with the entire body.
Water from the tap or in bottled form is always readily available at a rehab center. Patients are encouraged to drink it throughout the day. Especially during detoxification, the body needs it to prevent dehydration and to begin the cleansing process. The center provides medication so that detox symptoms are minimized.
Other Beneficial Liquids
Interestingly, several studies have verified that coffee has beneficial effects on the liver. It substantially reduces the risk of fibrosis scar tissue and slows the growth rate. Alcoholics who drink coffee every day have already benefited from this effect. Frequent consumption of coffee has been shown to significantly reduce the risk of liver cancer, fatty liver disease and hepatitis C.
People in early recovery also may drink tea and a moderate amount of fruit juice. These should not be used as substitutes for water, however.
Eating Nutritious Foods
Beneficial substances known as phytochemicals are packed with antioxidants and have healing properties. Colorful plant pigments are the best source. Ideally, the diet of a person in recovery from alcohol addiction will include a large amount of green leafy vegetables and foods like broccoli, Brussel sprouts and carrots. Fruit also contains these powerful phytochemicals. Acidic fruits are associated with healing effects on the liver. Some of these include oranges and grapefruit. Dark-colored berries and grapes are high in phytochemicals too.
Foods containing healthy Omega-3 fatty acids are good for the liver. Rehab center clients should eat any fish dinners and lunches provided in the lunchroom. Snacking on nuts is a way to obtain more Omega-3 acids.
