Addiction: Recovering in a Whole Way
April is Alcohol Awareness Month. You may be aware of the obvious harms chronic alcohol use can cause on the brain and liver, but do you know about the connection between alcohol addiction and gut health? The damage alcohol inflicts on the digestive system can be equally significant and often overlooked.
Understanding the Impact of Alcohol on Gut Health
The gastrointestinal (GI) tract is a complex ecosystem teeming with trillions of bacteria, responsible for digestion, nutrient absorption, and even immune function. This delicate microbiome requires balance to function properly and is highly sensitive to the effects of alcohol. Long term alcohol consumption can disrupt your gut health, leading to a spectrum of GI issues, ranging from mild discomfort to severe health complications.
According to Dr. Nicole Lewis, ND, one of the most common problems is gastritis, an inflammation of the stomach lining caused by alcohol’s irritation. Over time, this can lead to peptic ulcers, potentially causing bleeding and perforations. Alcohol consumption also throws your gut bacteria, known as microbiota, into disarray. This imbalance, called dysbiosis, can manifest as bloating, gas, diarrhea, and/ or increased susceptibility to infections. Studies show that dysbiosis reduces beneficial bacteria while allowing harmful bacteria to flourish. This weakens the intestinal barrier, potentially causing “leaky gut,” where toxins leak into the bloodstream. Not only does the liver work to break down alcohol, but certain gut bacteria also play a role. This interaction can affect how vulnerable you are to alcohol-related gut problems and metabolic disorders.
The Integrative Approach to Addiction Recovery
While the damage may seem daunting, there is a path to healing that can be taken in a whole way. Seeking professional help is crucial. At Wholeness Center, we offer an integrative approach to recovery that goes beyond sobriety. We address the underlying causes of your addiction while promoting gut health for a more complete recovery.
Take a look at the integrative approach Wholeness Center offers:
- Comprehensive Support: We have both naturopathic and medical doctors as well as mental health professionals to ensure an integrated and effective team approach to your recovery. We not only look at the physical symptoms of your addiction, but we also work with you to understand and cope with the underlying mental health factors that contribute to alcohol dependency.
- Nutritional Guidance: Because alcohol interrupts a healthy gut/ brain connection, it’s important to focus on nutritional deficiencies as a result. Transitioning to a diet focused on replenishing B vitamins can be a crucial step in supporting recovery from alcohol dependence, according to Mary Rondeau, ND, RH (AHG).
- Mind-Body Therapies: Alcohol addiction is a complex and multifaceted disorder that can wreak havoc on both the body and mind. In recent years, there has been growing interest in the therapeutic potential of psychedelic substances such as ketamine in addressing various mental health conditions, including addiction. Learn more about how our Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy program can be useful for those recovering from addiction.
- Wholeness Academy: Explore our comprehensive gut health program to learn more about your digestive system and how to support it naturally as you work towards recovery from alcohol addiction.
Nutritional and Mind-Body Strategies for Comprehensive Recovery
By prioritizing your gut health and seeking integrative care, you can take proactive steps towards lasting recovery. Our mental health team at Wholeness Center understands the challenges of alcohol addiction. We are here to guide you on your journey to heal body, mind, and spirit – one step at a time. You are not alone.
The Wholeness Center serves Northern Colorado and Ft. Collins. Please contact the Wholeness Center at 970-221-1106 to learn more about the innovative programs the Wholeness Center has to offer.