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To smoothie or not to smoothie? A mixed-method approach of nutrition pilot intervention among individuals in opioid agonist treatment
Fruit Smoothies and Opioid Treatment
Individuals with substance dependence often follow poor diets and lack nutritional awareness, leading to significant deficiencies in both micro- and macronutrients, which negatively affect their health. A potential way to improve their nutrition is by increasing the intake of fruits and vegetables, which are known to reduce the risk of diseases like heart disease and cancer. This mixed-methods pilot study by Carlsen et al. (2025) examined the feasibility and experiences of a six-week intervention in which participants undergoing opioid agonist treatment received 250 mL of fruit smoothies daily. The study was conducted in Bergen and Stavanger, Norway, with individuals undergoing opioid agonist treatment. It employed a pre- and post-intervention design, incorporating qualitative methods to explore participant feedback. Measurements included psychological distress, fatigue, and folic acid levels. Twenty-four participants (with an average age of 47 years) took part. Many participants reported feeling more energetic and eating more regularly, with some adding new foods to their diet. Dental problems were a barrier to eating whole fruits and vegetables, but smoothies were easily consumed despite oral health issues. While there were no major changes in psychological distress or fatigue, folic acid levels did increase. Overall, the smoothie intervention was well-received, increased nutritional awareness, and appeared to be a practical supplement to opioid agonist treatment. The authors advise conducting more studies using a larger randomized controlled experiment to assess its complete efficacy. [NPID: Opioid agonist treatment, nutrition, mixed-method, multicenter pilot study, mental and somatic health]
Year: 2025
