One of the most challenging parts of quitting alcohol is overcoming the body’s physical demands for the stuff, also known as alcohol cravings.
While beating the cravings is difficult, there are tips you can use to reduce the intensity of the cravings and get on your way toward a healthier life.
Here are a few ways to stop alcohol cravings
- Recognize triggers
- Drink more water
- Avoid high-risk situations
- Communicate
- Build a support system
- Follow a nutritious diet
- Exercise regularly
- Indulge in healthy activities
What causes alcohol cravings?
Alcohol cravings are caused by the release of endorphins, one of the chemicals released in the brain. The more alcohol consumed, the more endorphins released and consequently, the more pleasure a drinker feels. Cravings are the body’s way of telling you it wants to keep feeling pleasure. If alcohol has recently induced pleasure in the body, the body will signal an alcohol craving.
How to stop alcohol cravings with vitamins
Excessive drinking and chronic alcohol abuse both lead to vitamin deficiencies. In order to re-stimulate the body’s regular functions and reduce the depleted systems’ cries for alcohol, B-vitamins, and B-1, or thiamine, are highly recommended. B-1 (thiamine) can help fight fatigue and brain fog and increases the body’s vitamin and mineral absorption.
Foods that stop alcohol cravings
A nutritious diet is essential for health, but some foods are particularly helpful when trying to cut back on drinking.
Here are the foods known to reduce cravings:
- Chicken and fish
- Nuts and nut butters
- Dairy products
- Fresh fruits and vegetables
- Brown rice, whole grain bread, and pasta
Herbs to stop alcohol cravings
Herbs can be used to reduce alcohol cravings. One such herb, kudzu, is known to reduce cravings as well as consumption when it is taken regularly for a period of time. Kava, milk thistle, dandelion and passion flower can also be used to supplement craving reduction or alcohol withdrawal.
For more information on ways to reduce alcohol cravings and stop drinking in a healthy way, reach out to our team at United Recovery Project. We offer several services from alumni programs, to alcohol detox, to inpatient treatment. It all depends on what your desires are and we are here to make sure you achieve them.
