Natural Ways For Dealing With Constipation In Detox
Constipation is never fun to talk about. For millions of recovering addicts undergoing detox, however, constipation is a reality everyday. Drugs like opioids are constipating. Until the drugs start leaving the system, constipation is a problem. Other drugs like alcohol can be more laxative like, meaning that detox can cause more constipation. Specific substances aside, the body is sensitive. Chemical dependency changes the way the body naturally works. Addiction also changes our eating habits and the way we take care of ourselves. Experiencing constipation is natural, but it doesn’t have to last.
Choosing a medically assisted clinically trained detox facility is one of the most sure ways to begin the recovery process. Due to financial reasons or other reasons, many detox at home. Here are some remedies for getting through a constipation phase in early recovery.
Nutrition
When drugs and alcohol become our primary source of sustenance, we easily stop paying attention to the other vital sources of sustenance we are in need of. Our bodies are fighting hard to return to a state of homeostasis in detox. Supporting our bodies with nutrition helps with withdrawal symptoms like constipation. Try foods that are high in fiber, like grains, fruit, and vegetables. Foods known for helping digestion and regular bowel movements include prunes and flaxseed.
Water
On average, you are supposed to drink half your body weight in fluid ounces every day. So if you weigh 160 pounds, you should be drinking at least 80 ounces of water per day. Many argue that drinking a gallon a day is ideal. While dealing with withdrawal symptoms, that can be hard to do. Try to drink at least 8 glasses of water if you can. Water will help replace the electrolytes you are losing if you are suffering from sweating or convulsions.
Oils
Fish oil, castor oil, and coconut oil help create a laxative effect without necessarily causing diarrhetic results. Oils can be taken in liquid form, pill form, or food form. Coconut oil is great for cooking with and putting on some of those fiber filled foods. Fish oils can be gained from eating fish and parts like salmon skin.
Probiotics
Probiotics naturally exist within our digestive system, but are often depleted due to substance abuse, poor diet, and poor nutrition. Taking probiotic supplements helps our stomachs to digest at full capacity. Probiotics can also be found in food but are most effective in pill or powder form.
Harmony Place offers a luxury residential inpatient treatment program providing a safe and private environment for healing from drug and alcohol addiction. Our continuum of care makes sure your individual needs are met along each step of your recovery. For more information on our drug and alcohol treatment programs, call 1-855-627-1417.