Drug and alcohol detox can make an individual very sick and cause a lot of physical discomfort. Symptoms that are experienced during detox are related to which substances the individual has an addiction to. The severity of the symptoms can range from mild to life-threatening, partially depending on how much the individual used at a time and how long the addiction lasted. Drug and alcohol detox should always be performed under medical supervision due to the serious health risks of immediately stopping use.

Another important reason to detox with trained professionals is that they can help make the process less uncomfortable and more effective. Effective detox will reduce drug and alcohol cravings. There are a number of ways to achieve this. The use of medication is common, though some people debate whether it is counterproductive to use it.

General guidelines for a healthy lifestyle are even more important during drug and alcohol detox. A person’s body that has been put through a substance addiction is generally in very poor shape. A proper diet and a healthy amount of sleep are very beneficial. Certain nutrients will help in the detox process by flushing toxins out more quickly. These include essential fatty acids like flax seed oil and Vitamin C. Exercise is another healthy habit that most people should have, but many don’t. It will also help remove toxins from alcohol and drug abuse from the body.

Many natural methods are used in some detox centers and rehab facilities. Massage and saunas are said to help cleanse the body. Like exercising, saunas make the individual sweat and also can be psychologically beneficial. Meditation and yoga can help the patient relax in an addiction treatment center. Acupuncture and herbal remedies are other frequently used natural healing methods that are said to be beneficial in drug and alcohol detox.