A Wellness Journey Within
At Villa Kali Ma, we take a holistic approach and address the whole person; mind, body, and spirit. One of the most important issues to address when beginning a path toward healing addiction and other co-occurring disorders is the body’s current state of nutrition. Proper nutrition is critical to healing addiction and mental health disorders. Addiction is a chronic brain disorder that causes compulsive behavior that is detrimental to the suffering individual’s health. Malnutrition can make this worse because of how it adversely affects the brain. Identified through micronutrient testing, deficiencies rooted by excessive alcohol or drug use can cause symptoms such as lethargy, depression, anxiety, insomnia, impulsivity, poor concentration, and memory problems, to name a few.
We know that chronic cocaine use can cause low levels of omega 3 fatty acids, resulting in anxiety, irritability, depression, mood swings, low frustration tolerance, and poor sleep. We also know that opiate addicts usually show low levels of calcium, B6, and D, which manifests in acute anxiety, depression, and fatigue and can also greatly compromise the immune system. Alcohol, one of the worst offenders, causes the body to excrete large quantities of nutrients, which adversely affects the digestive system’s ability to function properly and therefore poses an even greater risk of brain problems and damage to nearly every organ in the body.
Micronutrient Testing and Metabolic Analysis
To properly address our clients’ presenting problems, Villa Kali Ma needs to identify what is going on nutritionally. Our metabolic analysis panel will test the blood for sugar level, kidney function, liver function, and test the body’s electrolytes for proper fluid balance. Our micronutrient testing will show any vitamin or mineral deficiencies, and amino acid and antioxidant levels present in the white blood cells. Armed with clients’ micronutrient testing results, we will create a healthy diet for each individual, including a dietary plan and nutritional supplements, to help bring the brain and the body back to optimal health.
