Research published in 2022 found that individuals who were alcohol dependent had significantly lower levels of both zinc and magnesium compared to the control group. Dr. Rebeca Eriksen, PhD MSc BSc (Hons) RD, is the Co-Founder at BioRebalance. Josh Lee is a clinician and researcher with a focus on medication-assisted treatment of alcohol and opioid use disorders. He has conducted multiple clinical trials examining the use of naltrexone in primary care and other community settings.
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- I took it for multiple years, and I experienced gradual cognitive decline during that time.
- Historically, most drug treatment programs have included counseling and 12-step approaches like Alcoholics Anonymous (AA).
- However, there is some good news for those serious about beating the cravings.
- Some of the best food sources of zinc include oysters, grass-fed beef, pumpkin seeds, cashews, mushrooms and spinach.
- The drug helps ease alcohol withdrawal symptoms like insomnia, anxiety, and depression.
Below are my current go-to supplements for a healthy dose of Magnesium. The chronic administration of vitamin C can also prevent the development of tolerance and physical dependence on morphine (59, 69). First of all, vitamin C levels are significantly lower in drug addicts (68). And researchers have concluded that magnesium supplementation can decrease nicotine addiction in heavy smokers.
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While mindfulness and patience are long-term strategies, immediate, practical steps can also be taken to manage cravings effectively. Healthy diversions and positive substitutions play a crucial role in this regard, offering healthy alternatives to the cycle of craving and consumption. A good first step is to speak with a primary care physician who can provide treatment referrals and medications. They can also evaluate the person’s drinking patterns and overall health and work together to craft a treatment plan.
The Impact of Alcohol on Glutamine Levels
Taking certain amino acids including taurine, and L-tryptophan may reduce alcohol craving or consumption and diminish withdrawal symptoms. One study found that taurine in doses up to 3gm/day significantly decreased alcohol withdrawal symptoms in hospitalized alcoholics undergoing acute detoxification. There are several supplements that may help reduce alcohol cravings, https://ecosoberhouse.com/what-are-sober-living-houses/ including kudzu root, milk thistle, and N-acetyl cysteine (NAC). Kudzu root has been shown to reduce alcohol consumption and cravings in some studies. Milk thistle may help protect the liver from damage caused by alcohol consumption, which may indirectly help reduce cravings. NAC has been found to reduce cravings and improve abstinence rates in some individuals.
This potent formula, featuring antioxidants like chlorophyllin and resveratrol, shields the liver from alcohol-induced harm. While it may not prevent hangovers, it excels at safeguarding liver health. There are at least nutrients that have been clinically shown to help people quit drinking and repair their bodies. Which ones are most beneficial for you will depend on your biochemistry. Often there is a process of trial and error to determine the best possible supplement regimens, but luckily there are effective programs that can help. Benzodiazepines are anti-anxiety and anticonvulsant drugs that must be prescribed by doctors.
- Unfortunately, most people don’t consume enough omega-3 fatty acids through their diet.
- Your care team might recommend this approach if you experience symptoms of anxiety and depression along with cravings.
External Triggers for Alcohol Consumption
While we’ve explored how alcohol and stress can lead to glutamine depletion, it’s crucial not to overlook other contributing factors. Overall, according to the American Society of Addiction Medicine, the goal of detoxification is to help make withdrawal safer, more humane and prepare the individual for ongoing treatment. That’s why building your own recovery toolkit can make a difference in your ability to weather the most intense cravings. Coping tips can absolutely offer short-term solutions when you’re trying to cut back on alcohol. That said, permanently changing your relationship with alcohol may require a more in-depth approach. You might notice stressful or tense situations tend to fuel cravings more often than not.
Holistic approaches that reduce alcohol and drug abuse
When you’re in recovery from alcohol addiction, nutrition can play a major role in helping your system bounce back. We understand that alcohol addiction is a serious issue that affects many people. While seeking professional help is the best way to address this problem, there are herbs to curb alcohol cravings also supplements that can help you on your journey to recovery. In this article, we have compiled a list of the best anti alcohol supplements that you can consider. These supplements are designed to help reduce cravings, improve liver function, and support your overall health.
- These symptoms can range from mild nausea, headaches, to life threatening seizures.
- The herb helps restore chemical balances and often makes a person feel more energetic or very relaxed, depending on the imbalance.
- Alcohol use disorder (AUD) can lead to severe deficiency in several vitamins and minerals.
Discuss Supplements With a Physician First
Omega-3-rich fish like salmon and mackerel may also help improve focus and overall brain health. Acamprosate is believed to work by restoring balance to certain neurotransmitters in the brain that are disrupted by long-term alcohol overuse. It’s important to know that if you do go off the drug, you may gain about two-thirds of the weight back should you stop taking the medication, Dominguez said.