Did you know that nearly 90,000 US people died as a result of excessive alcohol consumption from 2006 to 2010?
In 2010 alone, excessive alcohol use was responsible for approximately $249 billion in total costs.
Luckily, you can prevent excessive alcohol consumption with foods that stop alcohol cravings.
These foods are ideal when you’re trying to remain on the path of sobriety and they might help you kick your bad alcohol habits for good.
5 Foods That Stop Alcohol Cravings
Dealing with withdrawal symptoms after stopping alcohol consumption is normal.
However, you can stick to your sobriety goals by developing good habits such as exercising as well as healthy eating.
Certain foods can alleviate your cravings because they reestablish proper hormonal balance in your body.
Here’s what you should include in your diet to remain alcohol-free:
#1 - Fruits and Vegetables
A few servings of fresh fruits and vegetables can work wonders for your health.
These foods contain plenty of nutrients as well as fiber. The fiber content is important because it helps stabilize blood sugar level and prevent cravings.
At the same time, fruits and veggies also contain minerals and antioxidants which protect your liver against the damaging effect of alcohol.
If you want to help your liver even more, consider eating beetroots regularly. These foods are known for supporting the healing process of the liver after a prolonged period of heavy alcohol usage.
#2 - Foods Rich in Protein
Protein is essential for the body of any living organism.
Your body uses protein to build cells for various tissues and organs.
By eating a diet rich in protein, you enjoy a better mood and your hunger pangs are stabilized. This will help in reducing alcohol cravings and speed up the recovery process.
In addition, protein-rich foods such as tuna, sardines, poultry, eggs or milk also enhance the function of your immune system. This helps your body fight with the damaging agents of alcohol.
#3 - Sunflower Seeds
Studies show that sunflower seeds trigger a dopamine release in your brain.
Dopamine, just like serotonin, is an important neurotransmitter. Think of them as happiness hormones, if you will.
Alcohol temporarily increases dopamine levels, that’s why you feel great when you’ve had a drink or two. However, this effect is short-lived and eventually chronic alcohol usage leads to feelings of depression and anxiety.
Sunflower seeds give you a quick boost in dopamine levels, reducing your cravings for alcohol. It’s a nice trick to use and you don’t get a hangover!
#4 - Whole Grains
Whole grains contain complex carbohydrates which lower your blood sugar levels.
This will automatically reduce your cravings for alcohol and make you feel better.
Go for a bowl of oats with a handful of berries or Greek yogurt. You can also eat more whole brown rice which is another excellent source of complex carbs.
#5 - Leafy Greens
Excessive alcohol use tends to deplete your body's stores of vitamin B.
This can lead to serious health consequences in the long run. A good way to counteract that would be to eat a lot of leafy greens.
Foods like spinach, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, etc contain high amounts of vitamins from the B complex. This helps your body recovery while suppressing your alcohol cravings at the same time.
Stop Alcohol Cravings Naturally Starting Today!
These are just a few examples of foods that stop alcohol cravings, but there are many others such as soybeans, whole grain bread and more.
On top of improving your diet, these 10 sobriety tips will also help you remain alcohol-free, so check them out!