Alcohol detox is a painful process that can be life-threatening if not handled properly. That's why it's best to go through withdrawal in a medically supervised detox center.
Withdrawal symptoms may begin within 6 to 12 hours after a person stops drinking. They usually last for three to seven days before easing.
Medications
Medications can be used to help relieve some of the symptoms that come with alcohol detox. These include hallucinations, seizures and delirium tremens (DT).
Some medications may be used to reduce cravings for alcohol. These are called "craving suppressants."
There are also medicines that can help to rebalance chemicals in the brain. These are called "reuptake inhibitors."
Other medications can help to prevent relapse and manage cravings for alcohol. These medicines are called "non-competitive agents."
During alcohol detox, you'll need to take your medication as directed. You'll also need to have regular check-ups with a healthcare professional, such as your GP or a specialist NHS service.
Monitoring
A medically supervised alcohol detox is a key component of any addiction treatment programme. A team of physicians, nurses, therapists and dieticians monitor your detoxification process to ensure your comfort and safety.
The right medications are administered at the right time to minimize withdrawal symptoms and mitigate a chemical imbalance in your body. Moreover, the right diet is critical to long-term recovery.
For example, a high-fiber diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables is a must. These foods can help keep you hydrated while also supplying your body with the vitamins and minerals you need to get through a detox.
Medications can be used to treat withdrawal symptoms, such as nausea and vomiting. These include benzodiazepines, which can be prescribed by a doctor to alleviate these unpleasant side effects of a detox.
Support
People who suffer from alcohol dependency have long-term physical and emotional problems. This often means they need more support to get their health back on track.
Whether you’re going through a residential detox program or an outpatient one, there are plenty of resources available to help. These can include medical professionals, counselors, family members and friends.
There are also peer-support groups, like Alcoholics Anonymous (AA), and 12-step programs that can help people with a chemical dependency. These programs have been proven to be effective and can provide an extra layer of support for those who are struggling with a drinking problem.
It’s important to remember that changing deep habits is a process and takes time and repeated efforts. It’s best to get the support you need and stay focused on your recovery goals.
Diet
Eating healthy, nutrient-rich foods can help support the natural detox process. They replenish nutrient deficiencies, prevent extra work for the liver and calm inflammation to promote healing faster.
Foods that contain high levels of fiber are important to support the gut. They also help maintain a healthy body weight.
Carbohydrates are essential to the recovery process and can ease alcohol withdrawal symptoms by providing energy and B vitamins that alcohol depletes. Whole grains and high-fiber fruits and vegetables are excellent sources of carbohydrates.
Protein is another nutrient that helps to rebuild organs and muscles after heavy alcohol use. It is a good idea to include lean meats, poultry and fish during the detox phase of treatment.
A good source of protein is whole wheat bread, which contains a variety of nutrients. These nutrients include vitamin B, which is essential for restoring brain function after long-term alcohol consumption. This vitamin may also lower the risk of Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome, a brain disorder that causes confusion and vision problems.
