Objective: To assess the craving influence in the choice of simple carbohydrate and changing in body weight in alcoholics patients. Methods: Twenty one patients alcoholics in treatment in a specialized center for alcohol and drugs (CAPSad), Ouro Preto/MG were selected to participate in the study (14 men and 7 women), with aged between 25 and 64 years. A questionnaire was applied to assess craving, and food consumption. The change in body weight and body mass index (BMI) were estimated by anthropometrical methods to assess the nutritional status. Evaluations were performed at baseline and end up covering three months of treatment. Results: It was observed in women the average increase in weight (1.9 ± 1.86 kg), and in men the average loss of weight (-0.13 ± 2.09 kg) (p = 0.04). The statistical analysis showed no difference in the weight change when compared abstinent (A) and non-abstinent (NA) Men: AB = 0.39 ± 2.19 kg; NA: -1,06 ± 1,75 kg/Women: AB: 2.73 ± 1.95 kg; NA: 1.42 ± 1.85 kg. The initial and final craving was similar between those who relapsed and the abstinents. Abstainers maintained lower craving and greater sense of well-being with food sources of simple and complex carbohydrates consumption. Conclusion: There were changes in body weight over time of follow-up treatment for alcoholics in abstinence.
Withdrawal syndrome; craving; carbohydrate; body weight
