RDNs in Substance Use Disorder Treatment Centers

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RDNs in Substance Use Disorder Treatment Centers

With an alarming number of Americans meeting the criteria for substance use disorder (SUD), a cost of over 50 billion dollars, and an increasing number of deaths, substance use disorders have gained much attention.  Many studies have reported several micronutrient deficiencies of those involved with substance use and in treatment programs.  These deficiencies could be due to the inadequate food intake or the poor absorption and metabolism of the nutrients.

Registered Dietitian Nutritionists (RDNs) are needed as part of the treatment team to help facilitate recovery.  In 1990, the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics published a position paper, however, it did not have much power advocating for incorporating RDNs into rehab programs.

Other studies have shown a preference for sugary, low-fiber junk food among drug users due to the reward centers of the brain, poor gastrointestinal function, and constipation.  “Emotional Eating” is also of concern for those in drug abuse treatment.  Gaining weight during recovery is also of concern with the biggest concern of the common use of unhealthy weight loss strategies used a lot of times.

Drug use is also associated with eating disorder risk and most commonly binge eating disorder to help control drug cravings.  Many of the foods commonly chosen include less-healthy options such as pizza, cake, chips, and ice cream.  In treatment centers, it is vital to control the food and nutrition behaviors of those in recovery. 

However, there are some obstacles seen in including RDNs in the treatment program.  Much resistance may be met by patients due to the high stress levels, huge life changes, and the unacceptance of making too many changes at once.  Another obstacle would be the cost of including the RDN, which would most likely have to be made by the facility.

The importance of including RDNs in rehabilitation centers is crucial in helping those with substance use disorders get the best possible treatment available and help them have a high success rate.  There are no guidelines regarding food service in treatment centers, which needs to be addressed.  RDNs are vital in helping individuals stay on track during recovery and help them not resort to food during the high stressful times.  Having a nutrition programs in treatment centers can help improve quality of life and health after they leave, which can improve healthcare costs in the long-run.

NT

Wiss, D. A., Schellenberger, M., & Prelip, M. L. (2017). Registered Dietitian Nutritionists in         substance use disorder treatment centers. Journal of The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, doi:10.1016/j.jand.2017.08.113

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