Nutritional Effects Of Alcoholism

Alcoholism can lead to malnutrition, not only because chronic drinkers tend to have poor diets, but also because alcohol alters digestion and metabolism of most nutrients. Severe thiamine deficiency (marked by muscle cramps and wasting, nausea, appetite loss, nerve disorders, and depression) is extremely common, as are deficiencies of folate, riboflavin, vitamin B6, and selenium. Because many alcoholics suffer deficiency of vitamin D, which helps the body absorb calcium, they are at a risk of bone fractures and osteoporosis. Impaired liver and pancreatic function may result in faulty fat digestion. Since alcohol stimulates insulin production, glucose metabolism speeds up and can result in low blood sugar. And alcoholics are often overweight, due to calories in alcohol.

Diet and supplements do help. Once an alcoholic stops drinking, the nutritional problems are tackled one by one. Supplements are prescribed to treat deficiencies. A diet addresses underlying problems; for example, an overweight person needs a diet that reverses nutritional deficiencies without additional weight gain. If there is liver damage, protein intake must be monitored to prevent further liver problems.

Suggested ways to tackle alcoholism: As per the recommendations given by various medical practitioners world-wide following are the do’s and don’ts regarding alcoholism:

Do’s:

• Consume plenty of seafood, lean pork, and enriched cereals and breads for extra thiamine.
• Consume dark green leafy vegetables, orange juice, liver, lentils, enriched cereals and breads for folate.
• Legumes, pasta, rice, and other starchy foods should be taken for carbohydrates. Don’ts:

Definitely, avoid alcohol in any form.