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Malnutrition in Substance Use Disorders: A Critical Issue in Their Treatment and Recovery
Joaquín García-Estrada1,2, Sonia Luquin1,2, Karen Pesqueda-Cendejas1,2,3
1Departamento de Neurociencias, Centro Universitario de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad de Guadalajara, Guadalajara 44340, Mexico.
Healthcare (Basel, Switzerland)
|April 26, 2025
Summary
Substance use disorders (SUDs) are linked to malnutrition, impacting recovery. This review explores how specific nutrients can aid treatment for SUDs.
Area of Science:
- Nutritional Science
- Public Health
- Neuroscience
Background:
- Substance use disorders (SUDs) are prevalent globally, with malnutrition frequently observed in affected individuals.
- Malnutrition in SUDs can negatively impact disease progression and recovery outcomes.
- SUDs disrupt brain metabolism, affecting nutrient processing and leading to poor nutritional status.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review existing literature on the impact of malnutrition in human and animal models of SUDs.
- To identify specific nutrients that may support SUD treatment and recovery.
- To highlight the overlooked role of nutrition in SUDs.
Main Methods:
- Literature review synthesizing findings from human and murine models of SUDs.
- Analysis of research on the relationship between diet, drug metabolism, and SUDs.
- Examination of nutritional deficiencies common in individuals with SUDs.
Main Results:
- Individuals with SUDs often exhibit poor nutritional status, including high sugar intake and deficiencies in key micronutrients.
- Diet can significantly influence drug metabolism and effects.
- Limited research currently exists on the specific benefits of nutrients in SUD treatment.
Conclusions:
- Nutrition is a critical, yet often overlooked, factor in SUDs.
- Further research is needed to understand how specific nutrients can optimize SUD treatment and recovery.
- Addressing malnutrition is essential for improving outcomes in individuals with substance use disorders.
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