Alcoholism

Description

Alcoholism is a consumption of alcoholic beverages to the degree that the alcoholic compromises mental and physical health. Alcoholism is a complex, chronic, psychological and nutritional disorder.

Chronic alcoholism is a condition in which the drinker is physiologically dependent on alcohol. This is the most widespread drug addiction problem. Because alcohol can profoundly alter behaviour by blocking inhibitions and releasing aggressive behaviour, it is one of the most dangerous addictive drugs.

The most common health symptom associated with alcoholism is Cirrhosis, a disease that destroys the liver. An alcoholic’s life span is usually reduced significantly.

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Herbs

Alfalfa
Goldenseal
Milk Thistle
Valerian

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Nutritional Supplements

Calcium
Evening Primrose Oil (1)
Magnesium (2)
Selenium
Vitamin A (3)
B Complex (4)
Vitamin B6 (5)
Vitamin C (5,6)
Vitamin E (5)
Zinc (7)
L-glutamine (8)

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References

1. Glen AIM, Glen EMT, MacDonnell LEF, et al. Essential Fatty Acids in the management of withdrawal symptoms and tissue damage in alcoholics. Presented at the 2nd International Congress on Essential Fatty Acids, prostaglandins and Leukotrienes, London, Zoological Society. March 24-27, 1985 [abstract 53].
2. Embry CK, Lippmann S. Use of Magnesium sulfate in alcohol withdrawal. Am Fam Phys 1987;35:167-70.
3. Chapman K, Prabhudesai M, Erdman JW. Vitamin A status of alcoholics upon admission and after two weeks of hospitalization. J Am Coll Nutr 1993;12:77-83.
4. Norton VP. Interrelationships of nutrition and voluntary alcohol consumption in experimental animals. Brit J Addiction 1977;72:205-12.
5. Replgle WH, Eicke FJ. Megavitamin therapy in the reduction of Anxiety and Depression among alcoholics. J Orthomol Med 1988;4:221-24.
6. Chen M, Boyce W, Hsu JM. Effect of ascorbic acid on plasma alcohol clearance. J Am Coll Nutr 1990;9:185-89.
7. Labadie H, et al: Does oral Zinc improve the cellular immunity of patients with alcoholic Cirrhosis, Gastroenterol Clin Biol, 10(12), Dec 1986, p 799-803.
8. "The Healing Nutrients Within", Braverman ER & Pfeiffer CC, Kents, 1987.