Weight Gain In Addiction RecoveryWeight Gain In Addiction Recovery
Workit Health Blog Post Recordings
Kali discusses weight gain in recovery, explaining addiction transfer and offering tips on enjoying nutritious foods and the benefits of exercise.
4:48•3 Mar 2021
Why Do We Gain Weight in Recovery? Understanding Addiction Transfer
“When you take substances, whether that's alcohol, cocaine or opioids, you get a surge of chemicals in the brain that are responsible for our sense of well-being, motivation, energy and movement. It makes sense, therefore, that when you get sober that the brain is lacking in those chemicals, so the brain seeks out those chemicals and other pleasure-seeking substances, food, particularly sweet, calorie-laden, salty fried foods, sex, nicotine and gambling.”
Have you ever wondered why so many people gain weight when they stop drinking or using drugs? In this episode of 'Workit Health Blog Post Recordings', host Kali tackles the often-overlooked issue of weight gain during addiction recovery. Many find themselves trading one addiction for another, turning to food—especially sweets and high-calorie snacks—for comfort. This phenomenon, known as addiction transfer, can bring about feelings of guilt and shame, but it's a common part of the recovery journey.
Kali explains that when we use substances, our brains get a rush of feel-good chemicals that make us feel motivated and happy. When we quit, our brains miss those chemicals and start looking for other ways to get that same pleasure, often leading us straight to the kitchen. But there's hope! Kali shares practical tips on how to retrain your brain to find joy in healthier foods and how exercise can be a game-changer.
Exercise not only helps with anxiety and sleep but also encourages better food choices. You'll learn why it's okay to indulge in something sweet now and then, but why it's better to choose naturally sweetened options over sugary treats. Kali's advice is all about balance and understanding that the journey to sobriety is also a journey to a healthier you.
So if you're struggling with weight gain in recovery or just curious about why it happens, this episode offers valuable insights and practical tips to help you navigate this aspect of your sobriety journey. Tune in and discover how to fuel your body and mind in the best way possible.
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