Drug abuse has become an epidemic within the US.  According to the most recent data from the CDC, 10.6% of persons aged 12 and over have used illicit drugs within the past month.  There were 70,237 overdose deaths within the US with the state of Kentucky being statistically higher than the US rate.  With such frighteningly high abuse and mortality rates, it has become essential that there are effective treatment plans and centers in place in an effort to combat this epidemic.  A portion of the rehabilitation process is to improve the nutritional status of substance abusers in an effort to improve their overall wellbeing.  Many individuals who struggle with substance abuse suffer from severe nutritional deficiencies.  This prompted the Lewis County Nutrition Education SNAP-Ed Program Assistant to partner with the Lewis County Comprehend Drug Rehab to offer the Healthy Choices for Every Body curriculum to drug court participants.   There were eight (8) individuals who enrolled and graduated from the Nutrition Education Program (NEP).

Individuals who participated in NEP showed an astonishing 62.7% improvement in their overall diet quality upon completion of the program with 75% of those participants reporting that they cook their main meal at home more frequently.  Additionally, 65% reported improvement in food resource management and 83% increase in reported physical activity. Participants were challenged to make small changes to improve their endurance, strength and help them redirect their thoughts.

One person, who suffered from pre-diabetes with A1C levels being significantly elevated, reported a decrease in A1C and glucose levels.  Another participant states, “I’ve lost over 40lbs by doing what you (SNAP-Ed Assistant) have said, and it really hasn’t been that hard!”

 Rehabilitation involves the whole body with overall nutrition being a huge factor in the long term success of the individual.  In Lewis County, there is one group, recovering from substance abuse, who have taken great strides to a healthy new future.