There are many reasons why some people find eating healthy a challenge. Working mothers, for example, may find it tough to stick to a healthy diet when they have little mouths to feed.
Others also struggle because their diet is based on deprivation. They either eat as little as possible or remove entire food groups to quickly slim down.
For women in recovery, eating healthy is even more of a challenge. Years of use and abuse can cause nutritional deficiencies that need to be addressed. The goal then is to have them maintain a balanced diet (with all food groups included) that supports their recovery goals.
Easy Meals for Women in Recovery
Here are five of the best meals for women in recovery. Not only are they easy to make, they’re also packed with nutrients that can help restore good health.
1. Grilled Salmon
Salmon and other oily fish are rich in omega-3 fatty acids. These are essential fats that support the normal functions of our brain and nervous system.
To make grilled salmon, first season your fillet with salt. Next, make the marinade by mixing together soy sauce, brown sugar, water, and vegetable oil. Place the seasoned fillet in a resealable plastic bag together with the marinade and put it in the ref for 2 hours minimum.
Preheat your grill and drizzle some oil. Get your salmon fillet and grill for about 8 minutes per side.
2. Sauteed Spinach with Garlic
Spinach is a good source of magnesium. According to Livestrong, magnesium can help reduce irritability during recovery. It can also help restore muscular and nerve function.
Making sauteed spinach with garlic will take you less than 10 minutes. First, saute the garlic until golden brown. Set aside or place them in paper towels.
Cook the spinach until they begin to wilt. Season with salt and pepper. sprinkle the sauteed garlic, and you’re done!
3. Strawberry Banana Smoothie
There are benefits to eating a large breakfast. But for women in recovery who may not be up to the task of preparing and eating a big breakfast, smoothies are the next best thing.
This recipe uses soy milk and silken tofu, which are excellent sources of plant-based protein. As you may know, protein helps decrease cravings, while soy-based foods support healthy brain function. Soy is also good for maintaining strong bones and a healthy immune system.
4. Roasted Butternut Squash
Here’s a simple way to make roasted butternut squash, which is chock-full of vitamins. A cup of this provides almost half the recommended daily dose of vitamin C.
It’s also rich in vitamin A, which is good for our eyes and immune system. Squash is also a great source vitamin B6. Note that vitamin B6 deficiency is common among those suffering from alcoholism and substance abuse.
5. Green Tea
Okay, so green tea isn’t exactly a meal but it’s a good source of theanine, which has a calming effect on the brain. It also helps lower cortisol (stress hormone) levels.
If you don’t like green tea, you can substitute with other teas, preferably those that are caffeine-free. Both chamomile tea and chai tea provide excellent mood-boosters.
The Bottom Line
Choosing meals and beverages that support your recovery goals is not that different from choosing a unique approach to addiction treatment. It has to be personalized to ensure a long-lasting recovery. You can learn all about individualized treatment plans at https://abtrs.com/.
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