The Health Risks of Poor Nutrition

Vitamin and mineral deficiencies affect virtually all of the organs, and gastro intestinal systems, organ functioning, and mental processes are diminished from a lack of proper nutrition. Additionally, the impact of poor nutrition can increase further abuse.

In response to the massive sugar intakes of alcohol consumption, there is a pancreatic response and a corresponding over production of insulin which creates an induced state of low blood sugar (hypoglycemia). Low blood sugar, in addition to causing headaches and other physical symptoms, reduces energy levels and mental abilities, and can induce feelings of lethargy and depression. The solution to experienced hypoglycemia is further sugar consumption through alcohol for a temporary alleviation of experienced symptoms. This chronic low blood sugar partially explains the cravings towards consumption, and explains how proper nutrition, which restores blood sugar balance, can help to alleviate these cravings.

Chronically elevating and dropping blood sugar levels also greatly increases the risks of experienced type 2 diabetes, and many alcoholics ultimately battle with this condition from their years of abuse.

Poor nutrition influences the production of central nervous system neurotransmitters, and when neurotransmitters like dopamine and serotonin are diminished there is a resultant mood imbalance, and both a decreased ability to resist temptation, and a greater perceived need for the pleasurable effects of intoxication.

Restoring bodily health, mental health, and internal metabolic processes through excellent nutrition and through the use of vitamin and mineral supplements helps to reduce the experienced deficits of improper nutrition, and as a result to increase the resistance to and desire for further abuse.