A food and nutrition therapy program can help someone achieve long-term recovery. The purpose of this type of nutrition therapy is to help people develop and maintain healthy eating behaviors, which can be key components for lasting healing. When combined with traditional addiction treatment, nutrition therapy has been shown to improve overall health and well-being, reduce cravings for substances, and help people stay on track with their recovery. To learn more about BRC Healthcare’s food and nutrition therapy program and our other addiction therapy programs, reach out at 888.559.2036 today.
What Are Food and Nutrition Therapy Programs?
Nutrition therapy for addiction treatment involves educating individuals about the connection between food and emotional health, as well as how to maintain a balanced diet. During these sessions, our nutritionists work with clients to create an individualized meal plan that meets their nutritional needs and promotes positive lifestyle changes. This type of therapy also helps people identify any dietary triggers they have and learn how to manage them in a healthy way.
Elements of a food and nutrition therapy program include:
- Nutritional evaluation and assessment
- Education about the connection between food, mood, and addiction
- Guidance on healthy foods and meal planning
- Advice on how to shop for and prepare nutritious meals
- Instruction on proper portion sizes
- Support in developing positive lifestyle habits
Through nutrition therapy, individuals learn the skills they need to maintain healthy eating habits, stay on track with their recovery goals, and better manage their emotions. This type of therapy is particularly helpful for people who have been using substances as a way to cope with emotional distress or trauma. With the help of nutritionists, individuals can learn healthier coping mechanisms that don’t involve alcohol or drugs.
Food and nutrition therapy programs are typically combined with other therapeutic approaches, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), family therapy, and 12-step programs. The combination of traditional addiction treatment with nutrition therapy is essential for long-lasting recovery.
Benefits of Food and Nutrition Therapy
Food and nutrition therapy can enhance a person’s life in many ways. Often when a person is dealing with substance misuse, they are also suffering from malnutrition. Through this type of therapy, individuals learn how to maintain a healthy diet and get the nutrients they need.
Other benefits include:
- Increased energy levels
- Improved mood
- Decreased emotional distress
- Better sleep patterns
Nutrition therapy is a valuable tool for achieving sobriety and maintaining it over time.
BRC Healthcare’s Chefs
Each of our treatment centers has its own chef to prepare daily meals as well as educate clients through hands-on cooking, a valuable life skill that can be implemented in recovery.
Makana Path – Paul Saucedo
Paul, born in Austin, has been a chef in the city for over 15 years, most recently at the University of Texas, where he cooked for MBA students at McComb’s School of Business. He has a strong background in the Austin food scene and brings that passion, finesse, and care to our clients at Makana Path. Paul also provides special meals for clients who are medically detoxing.
BRC Recovery Center Women’s Program – Tracy Lewis
Tracy, a Texas native, has worked in the substance misuse field for several years and recently transitioned into the chef role at our women’s facility. She also works with the women at the facility to teach them valuable cooking skills.
BRC Recovery Center Men’s Program – Ron Matty
A BRC Healthcare Alum, Ron brings years of culinary experience to the team. Having cooked at the Ritz Carlton in Marina Del Rey, CA, and Hillcrest Country Club in Beverly Hills, CA, to name a couple, Ron brings his passion and culinary prowess to our men’s facility. Other than physically cooking, he educates clients on culinary techniques, nutrition, and meal preparation.
Learn the Healing Power of Proper Nutrition at BRC Healthcare
At BRC Healthcare, our food and nutrition therapy program gives individuals the guidance and support they need to make lasting changes in their lives. To learn more about this program and other addiction therapy programs, contact us at 888.559.2036 today.