Quitting benzos is a huge step in your recovery journey. However, you may need assistance to ease diarrhea, abdominal pain, and nausea associated with withdrawal from benzodiazepines. Collectively, these symptoms are referred to as benzo belly, and there are ways to make them more manageable.
Fortunately, naturopathic physician Dr. Nicole Cain can naturally help patients cope with benzo belly. Some of these methods include:
- Eating More Probiotics
- Adding More Fiber
- Incorporating Supplements & Herbs
What Is Benzo Belly?
Although benzos are an effective treatment for seizures and anxiety, they pose an addiction risk if misused. To safely stop using benzos, it’s important to have the right support, such as treatment by a naturopathic physician specializing in recovery support. Benzo belly describes the numerous stomach ailments when you quit using the drug, including the following.
- Diarrhea
- Appetite Changes
- Constipation
- Abdominal pain
What Causes Benzo Belly?
Benzos infiltrate cells in your gastrointestinal tract (GI). Association of use can cause your digestive tract to go off the rails. Benzo belly is part of your body’s reaction to living without the drug.
What Is Benzo Tapering?
The safest way to deal with benzo belly is by tapering the use of the drug slowly. During this process, your medical professional will gradually reduce your daily consumption of benzos. You can stop using the drug altogether when you no longer have withdrawal symptoms, such as benzo belly. Further, this method can also reduce the risk of serious complications such as seizures, anxiety, and insomnia.
What Foods Help With Benzo Tapering?
Dr. Cain works with each patient to identify nutritional deficiencies. This allows her to recommend foods and supplements that can balance your body during benzodiazepine tapering. These foods include probiotics and fiber.
- Kimchi
- Yogurt
- Kefir
- Beans
- Pears
- Celery
What Herbs & Supplements Can Provide Support?
Besides eating healthily and following your doctor’s recommendations, you may also find certain herbs and supplements can provide the support you need to get benzo belly under control. Kava, melatonin, and progesterone may alleviate the symptoms of benzo withdrawal.
However, it’s important to consult with a trained professional to find out the best supplements for your condition.
Benzo Tapering Support With Dr. Nicole Cain
Dr. Nicole Cain is a naturopathic physician and psychologist serving patients in Arizona who offers a class on medication tapering. Contact our office today to learn about healthy ways to deal with benzo belly and other conditions related to benzodiazepine withdrawal.
Dr. Nicole Cain is an advocate for empowering people around the world to help themselves via her educational free resources, online courses, and membership group. You can receive the tools you need to find the root cause of your symptoms and feel healthy again.
