Alcohol Detox is a process that is necessary for people who have a problem with alcohol. It helps them detoxify from alcohol and stop using it to live a sober life.


The duration of detoxification varies from person to person and depends on the individual's age, weight, alcohol use history, and health status. Some individuals may be able to complete alcohol detoxification at home, while others need professional treatment.

Medications
Medications used during alcohol detox are prescribed by doctors to reduce the amount of alcohol a person consumes and to help manage withdrawal symptoms. They can also be used to treat mental health and psychiatric issues that may arise during treatment.

Benzodiazepines are drugs that can be used to reduce anxiety and withdrawal symptoms. These include diazepam (Valium), chlordiazepoxide (Librium) and lorazepam (Ativan).

Anticonvulsant medications are prescribed to treat seizures during withdrawal and can be given by the patient, their loved ones or medical professionals. These can include depakote or tegretol and other anticonvulsants.

Naltrexone is another drug that can be used to reduce cravings during alcohol withdrawal and in recovery. This is often administered in tablets, slow-release subcutaneous implants or both.

The medication is usually combined with talk therapy and support groups to help a person stop drinking. These are the most effective methods of treating an alcohol use disorder. The best way to learn more about treatments is to ask your doctor.

Tapering
Alcohol tapering is a process used to reduce the severity of withdrawal symptoms by allowing the body time to adjust to the reduced amount of alcohol intake. This is an effective way to avoid triggering alcohol withdrawal symptoms while also reducing the risk of relapse.

Depending on the individual’s situation and previous history with alcohol withdrawal, the time required to complete an alcohol detox taper may vary. However, it’s important to note that the most effective alcohol detox taper plan is one that has been carefully created by a doctor.

Regardless of the specific type of taper that you use, it’s important to stay hydrated during this process. Water and Gatorade are your best options, but don’t drink coffee or caffeinated beverages as they can upset your system even further. A healthy diet and multi-vitamin supplement will also help you to maintain your health during this process.

Staying busy
One of the best ways to stay sane and avoid the pitfalls of moderate-to-severe alcohol withdrawal is to be proactive. Make a list of fun activities that aren’t alcohol related, like hiking or volunteering for a cause.

A well-planned routine is also a good idea. The key to a successful sober life is to establish a solid work, home, and social schedule that is designed to provide structure and safety.

While you are at it, try and include the following in your daily schedule: a bit of exercise, time spent with family, self-care activities, a trip to the doctor, and attendance to a sober-living community event. There’s no need to cram every minute of your day with these activities, but it’s a good idea to plan out a routine that will leave you feeling relaxed and ready to face the challenges that come your way. It’s also a great idea to make sure that you’re always using your brains, and the best way to do this is by keeping an eye out for the signs of a healthy mind and body.

Eating
During alcohol detox, nutrition is crucial to ease withdrawal symptoms and restore physical and mental health. Chronic heavy drinking impairs gut health and nutrient absorption1, so people who struggle with alcohol addiction often suffer from deficiency in vitamins A, B, C and E as well as calcium, magnesium, iron and zinc.

Vitamin B-rich foods like salmon, broccoli and leafy greens (please note that cooked vegetables diminish the vitamin B content) can boost energy levels while supporting a healthy liver. Zinc is another common nutrient that can’t be adequately absorbed by people with heavy alcohol use, so adding foods like eggs, milk, beans and lentils to your diet will help you keep your immune system in tip-top shape.

Fiber-rich fruits and vegetables are an important part of a detox diet because they help keep blood sugar levels steady, which can reduce irritability, anxiety and cravings. They also contain vitamins, minerals and folic acid that support overall health.