Eat these healthy foods to help your brain heal from drug abuse

Do provide energy with complex carbohydrates

Provide energy in the form of complex carbohydrates. The brain is a pure glycolyzer, which means that if prefers glucose (sugar) for energy. Though the brain makes up only 2% of the body, it utilizes 25% of the total energy. In order to heal, one needs energy and the brain needs at least 120 grams of carbohydrates per day. Since it only stores limited glucose as glycogen in the liver, it is necessary to supply a continuous amount throughout the day and insure that there is still energy in the liver during sleep when the brain does the majority of its healing.

Do supply essential fats with omega 3 fatty acids

Do supply sufficient omega 3 fatty acids (from fish oils, nuts, flaxseed) each day for nerve cell repair and maintenance. These essential fatty acids are critical to nerve cell receptors because they make the membrane more flexible to capture the chemical messengers known as neurotransmitters. Fats make up 60% of the brain’s dry weight and the majority of this fat is an omega 3 called docosohexanoic acid (DHA). Fats also speed up the transfer of electrical information by severing as insulation (myelin sheath) for the brain’s wiring system.

Do normalize neurotransmitters

Do normalize and replace neurotransmitters which control behaviors by stabilizing moods by reducing stress, anxiety, depression, and fatigue, through adequate high quality protein. All neurotransmitters are formed from monoamines which are the building blocks of proteins. For example, the amino acid tryptophan is converted into serotonin which allows you to be calm and centered. High quality proteins provide essential amino acids in the right combinations and quantity. Good sources are lean meat, fish, dairy as well as soy, nuts and beans.

Do supplement with enzymatic cofactors

Supplement with enzymatic cofactors, which are vitamins and minerals. These essential nutrients are critical in the manufacture and function of the communication chemicals we call neurotransmitters. Vitamin B6, B3, and minerals copper and iron are critical in the formation of adrenalin and dopamine. When the body has a complete array of the nutrients it needs it is best for growth, maintenance and repair. A complete vitamin and mineral supplement will fit the bill.

Do hydrate appropriately

Hydrate appropriately, preferentially with water. You do need to replace daily fluid losses with at least 2 quarts or 8 cups per day. An additional 4 cups is provided by the food you eat, as food is mostly water. A drop of fluid as little as 2% (1 ½ pints) can negatively affect brain performance. Also, it is important to note that too much water (more than 4 quarts) can lead to water toxicity and mineral loss.

Do not limit your intake of fruits and vegetables

Don’t limit your intake of fruits and vegetables below 9 servings per day. The healing brain is highly susceptible to oxidative damage due to the oxidation (aerobic burning of) glucose for energy, the oxidation (rancidity) of unsaturated fatty acids, and the oxidation (rusting) of iron contained in the increased blood flow. A variety of highly pigmented fruits and vegetables are capable of scavenging and neutralizing damaging free radicals (reactive oxidized molecules), as well as restoring those that are used up in the body.

Do not allow inflammation to get out of control

Don’t allow inflammation to get out of control. The body’s repair system is inflammation, but it can get out of control. When it becomes chronic it can be damaging and actually cause more injury and a host of diseases. Fruits and vegetables contain a multitude of plant chemicals (phytonutrients) that act as anti-inflammatory substances that balance out the out of control inflammation. Omega 3 fatty acids also help to keep inflammation in check by producing anti-inflammatory agents.

Do not consume too much saturated fat

Don’t consume too much saturated fat, vegetable oils (omega 6 fatty acids), and cholesterol or Trans fatty acids. These fats can lead to vascular disease and limit the transport of nutrients and oxygen to the brain. Their insertion into membranes makes the receptors unresponsive to neurotransmitters and the nerves themselves stiff. Omega 3s makes the membranes fluid and the nerves flexible for maximum communication and functioning.

Do not have unbalanced blood sugar

Don’t find yourself in a state of either too high or too low blood sugar. Too little or too much sugar flowing through the brain can cause fuzzy thinking, mood swings, irritability and fatigue. To keep the blood sugar in the proper zone, one should consume a mixed diet that combines complex carbohydrates, protein and a small amount of fat distributed throughout the day in 5 – 6 feedings. It is valuable to track your fiber intake daily and shoot for an average of 25 – 35 grams per day.

Do not consume more than 1 – 2 cups of coffee per day

Don’t consume more than 1 – 2 cups of coffee (caffeine) per day each morning and none after 12:00 noon. Caffeine is a psychoactive drug that alters behaviors. It is a gateway drug in that it keeps cravings primed and alters the dopaminergic reward response. Traditionally, caffeine creates sleep disturbances and thereby hampers the number one condition most beneficial to brain healing which is quality sleep.