Alcohol Use Disorder (Alcoholism)

Alcohol use disorder can be mild, moderate or severe, based on the number of symptoms you experience. Signs and symptoms may include:

• Being unable to limit the amount of alcohol you drink
• Wanting to cut down on how much you drink or making unsuccessful attempts to do so
• Spending a lot of time drinking, getting alcohol or recovering from alcohol use
• Feeling a strong craving or urge to drink alcohol
• Failing to fulfill major obligations at work, school or home due to repeated alcohol use
• Continuing to drink alcohol even though you know it's causing physical, social, work or relationship problems
• Giving up or reducing social and work activities and hobbies to use alcohol
• Using alcohol in situations where it's not safe, such as when driving or swimming
• Developing a tolerance to alcohol so you need more to feel its effect or you have a reduced effect from the same amount
• Experiencing withdrawal symptoms — such as nausea, sweating and shaking — when you don't drink, or drinking to avoid these symptoms

Alcohol use disorder can include periods of being drunk (alcohol intoxication) and symptoms of withdrawal.

• Alcohol intoxication results as the amount of alcohol in your bloodstream increases. The higher the blood alcohol concentration is, the more likely you are to have bad effects. Alcohol intoxication causes behavior problems and mental changes. These may include inappropriate behavior, unstable moods, poor judgment, slurred speech, problems with attention or memory, and poor coordination. You can also have periods called "blackouts," where you don't remember events. Very high blood alcohol levels can lead to coma, permanent brain damage or even death.
• Alcohol withdrawal can occur when alcohol use has been heavy and prolonged and is then stopped or greatly reduced. It can occur within several hours to 4 to 5 days later. Signs and symptoms include sweating, rapid heartbeat, hand tremors, problems sleeping, nausea and vomiting, hallucinations, restlessness and agitation, anxiety, and occasionally seizures. Symptoms can be severe enough to impair your ability to function at work or in social situations.

• Early introduction to alcohol.
• Toxic or stressful work environments.
• Mental health disorders (such as anxiety, ADHD, Bipolar Disorder, PTSD, and personality disorders).
• Engaging in risky behavior (such as mixing medicines and/or illegal drugs with alcohol).
• Family and childhood history (such as childhood trauma, severe early-life stress, alcoholic parents, bad home environments, depression and anxiety).

ESSENTIAL:

• Free-form amino acid plus extra L-cysteine or N-acetylcysteine (EQ N-Acetyl Cysteine): Aids in withdrawal; needed for brain and liver function; necessary for regeneration of liver cells. Take 500 mg each 3 times daily on an empty stomach. Take with 50 mg vitamin B6 and 100 mg vitamin C for better absorption. Start with 500 mg daily and slowly work up to1,000 mg daily.
• Gamma-aminobutyric acid (AI GABA) plus inositol and niacinamide: Calms the body and prevents anxiety and stress. For Gamma-aminobutyric acid, take 750 mg once or twice daily, as needed. For inositol, take as directed on label. For niacinamide, take 35 mg once daily, as needed. Caution: Do not substitute niacin for niacinamide. Niacin can be toxic in such high doses.
• Glutathione and L-methionine: Glutathione protects the liver and reduces craving for alcohol. L-methionine protects glutathione, making it available to the liver. For glutathione, take 3,000 mg daily, on an empty stomach. For L-methionine, take 1,000 mg daily, on an empty stomach. Take with water or juice. Do not take with milk. Take with 50 mg vitamin B6 and 100 mg vitamin C for better absorption. Note: Do not substitute glutamic acid for glutathione.
  
• Pantothenic acid (vitamin B5) (NS Adrenal Support): An antistress vitamin.  Take 2 caps 3 times daily.
  
• Vitamin B complex injections or sublingual, plus extra vitamin B6, along with vitamin B12: Vitamin B complex corrects deficiencies. Injections (under a doctor’s supervision) are best. If injections are not available, use a sublingual form. Vitamin B6 is often deficient in alcoholics. Vitamin B12 reduces water retention and helps to relieve anxiety, fear, and tension associated with recovery. For vitamin B complex injections, take as prescribed by physician. For sublingual, take 100 mg of each major B vitamin (thiamine and riboflavin) daily. Amounts of individual vitamins in a complex will vary. Do not exceed 35 mg niacin and 1,000 mcg folate daily. For vitamin B6, take up to 100 mg daily. For vitamin B12, take 1,000 mcg 3 times daily.
  
• Vitamin B1 (thiamine):  Alcohol use disorder often causes deficiencies in B vitamins, especially B1. Take 200 mg 3 times daily.

VERY IMPORTANT:

• Alpha-lipoic acid (NS Alpha Lipoic Acid): Aids in protecting the liver and pancreas from alcohol damage. A powerful antioxidant. Take 100 mg twice daily.
• Calcium (NS Coral Calcium) and magnesium (NS Magnesium Complex): Calcium is a vital mineral that has a sedative effect. Magnesium works with calcium and is depleted from the body with alcohol use. For calcium, take 2,000 mg daily, at bedtime. Do not exceed this amount from all sources. For magnesium, take 350 mg daily, at bedtime. Do not exceed this amount from all sources.
• Multienzyme complex (NS Digestive Enzymes Plus), plus proteolytic enzymes (NS Proteolytic Enzymes): Aids digestion. Essential for assimilation of protein. For multienzyme complex, take 2 capsules with each meal. For proteolytic enzymes, take 1-2 capsules between meals.
• Primrose oil (EQ Primrose Oil): Used successfully in Europe, this supplement is a good source of essential fatty acids. It may also help reduce withdrawal symptoms. Take 1,000 mg 3 times daily, with meals.
• Pycnogenol or grape seed extract (NS Grape Seed Extract): Powerful antioxidants for the protection of the cells. For pycnogenol, take 30 mg 3 times daily. For grape seed extract, take 2 capsules 2-3 times daily.
• Vitamin C with bioflavonoids (NS Liposomal Vitamin C): Acts as a powerful antioxidant with healing potential, and promotes production of interferon, which helps the body resist infection, to which people with alcohol use disorder are generally more susceptible. Take up to 2,000 mg daily, in divided doses.
  

IMPORTANT:

• Acidophilus (EQ High Delivery Acidophilus, Three Lac, BL Probiotic Plus): Needed for proper digestion. Helps the damaged liver. Take any as directed on label. Take on an empty stomach.
• Lecithin granules or capsules (TE LypoZyme):  Good for brain function. Helps correct fatty liver degeneration. May protect against cirrhosis. For granules, take 1 tbsp 3 times daily, before meals. For capsules, take 1,200 mg 3 times daily, before meals.
• Multivitamin and mineral complex (NS Liquid Life, NS Colloidal Minerals Plus), with manganese (NS Manganese Plus), and selenium (AI Selenium): All nutrients are needed because of malabsorption problems. Manganese and selenium have important trace minerals that enhance immune function. For multivitamin and mineral complex, take as directed on label. For manganese, take 200 mcg daily. Take separately from calcium. For selenium, take 200 mcg daily.
• Coenzyme A from Coenzyme-A Technologies: Supports the immune system’s detoxification of many dangerous substances. Take as directed on label.
• Inositol hexaphosphate (IP6) (Cell Forté with IP-6 from Enzymatic Therapy): Enhances natural killer cell activity. Take as directed on label.
• Liquid Kyolic Aged Garlic Extract with B1, B6, and B12 Formula 101 from Wakunaga: Protects liver and brain cells. Reduces stress. Take as directed on label.

HELPFUL:

• Choline complex, or acetylcholine complex, or phosphatidyl-choline: Effective combinations that reduce fatty liver changes, improving liver function. For any, take as directed on label.
• Flaxseed oil (EQ Flax Seed Oil): Strengthens the brain’s gray matter. Take as directed on label.
• L-glutamine: An amino acid that helps to stop cravings and balance blood sugar. Take 500 mg twice daily, on an empty stomach. Take with water or juice. Do not take with milk. Take with 50 mg vitamin B6 and 100 mg vitamin C for better
  absorption.
  
• Lithium: A trace mineral that may help depression. Available by prescription only. Take as prescribed by physician.
• Raw liver extract and raw pancreas glandular (NS Endocrine and Pancreas): Raw liver extract is a rich source of vitamins and minerals that aids in repairing the liver and in preventing anemia. Raw pancreas glandular helps prevent pancreatic damage; beneficial for people with diabetes associated with alcohol use disorder. For raw liver extract, take as directed on label. For raw pancreas glandular, take 2 capsules 3 times daily.
• S-adenosylmethionine (SAMe) or St. John's Wort (NS St. John's Wort): Its antioxidant effects can improve the health of the liver. For S-adenosylmethionine (SAMe), take as directed on label. For St. John's Wort, take 2 capsules 2-3 times daily. Caution: Do not use if you have bipolar mood disorder or take prescription antidepressants.
• Vitamin A: To counteract deficiencies. Vitamin A is poorly absorbed if the liver is damaged. Use emulsion forms for easier assimilation and greater safety at higher doses. Avoid capsule or tablet forms. Take up to3,000 mcg (10,000 IU) daily. If you are pregnant, do not exceed 3,000 mcg (10,000 IU) daily.
• Vitamin E: A powerful antioxidant. Use d-alpha-tocopherol form. Take 90 mg (200 IU) daily.
• Zinc (EQ Zinc): Deficiency can cause pathological changes in the stomach similar to those caused by alcohol. 40 mg daily. Do not exceed this amount from all supplements.

• NS Adrenal Support
• NS Alpha Lipoic Acid
• NS Amino Complex
• NS Choline & Inositol
• NS Colloidal Minerals Plus
• NS Coral Calcium
• NS Digestive Enzymes Plus
• NS Endocrine & Pancreas
• NS Grape Seed Extract
• NS Liposomal Vitamin C
• NS Liquid Life
• NS Magnesium Complex
• NS Manganese Plus
• NS Milk Thistle
• NS Proteolytic Enzymes
• NS St. John's Wort
• AI GABA
• AI Selenium
• BL Probiotic Plus
• EQ Flax Seed Oil
• EQ High Delivery Acidophilus
• EQ N-Acetyl Cysteine
• EQ Primrose Oil
• EQ Zinc
• Three Lac 

• Dark green, leafy vegetables: Vegetables like spinach, kale, romaine lettuce and other salad greens can provide vitamin B6, folic acid and beta-carotene. These are all nutrients that are often found to be deficient in alcoholics. 
• Proteins: Protein from both animal and plant sources are broken down into amino acids that the body uses to repair cells. Animal sources of protein like tuna, turkey and chicken are also great sources of vitamin B6. Red meat, pork and poultry provide iron, and fish like salmon are great sources of bothomega-3 fatty acidsand calcium. You can also get plant proteins from lentils, tofu (soy), black beans and quinoa.
• Bright fruits and vegetables: Foods like papayas, bell peppers, strawberries, pineapple and oranges are all high in vitamin C and many other vitamins. 
• Complex carbohydrates: Your body needs complex carbohydrates, from rice to beans to bread to potatoes. These contain fiber to help with digestion and boost your energy. When buying bread, stick to whole grain. White bread won’t provide nearly the same benefits.
• Dairy: Milk isn’t just for calcium. Whole milk, cheese and butter are great sources of vitamin A, and yogurt provides both vitamin B2 and live cultures that can promote digestive health.

Lemon Ginger Detox Tea:

Ingredients:

• 1 cup of water
• ½ inch piece of ginger, grated or sliced
• Juice from half a lemon
• 1 tsp of honey (to taste)
• Optional: cinnamon stick, fresh mint leaves, or turmeric

Directions:

• Boil the water and add all ingredients.
• Steep for 5-10 minutes, then strain.

Creamy Turmeric Latte:

Ingredients:

• 1 cup warmed milk of your choice
• 1 tsp ground turmeric
• ½ tsp cinnamon
• ¼ tsp ginger powder
• A pinch of black pepper
• Honey or maple syrup to taste

Directions:

• Blend all the ingredients together well and serve while still warm.

Peanut Butter Banana Smoothie:

Ingredients:

• 1 bananas (fresh or frozen without the skin)
• 1 cup of milk of your choice
• ¼ cup peanut butter
• 1 cup of ice cubes
• Optional: 1 tablespoons honey (to taste)

Directions:

• Blend everything together very well and enjoy.

Green Goddess Smoothie:

Ingredients:

• 1 cup leafy greens (spinach, kale, and chard are great!)
• ½ - 1 banana
• ½ avocado
• ½ cup orange juice, plus more to taste
• ½ teaspoon chia seeds and/or hemp hearts
• 1 cup almond milk, plus more as needed to blend
• Handful of ice

Directions:

• Toss everything into a blender and enjoy!
• You might also consider adding ingredients like spirulina, flaxseed meal, and frozen fruits (try pineapple or mango!)

Beet and Berry Blend:

Ingredients:

• ⅓ cup peeled + chopped raw beet (or ¼ cup beet juice)
• 1 ⅓ cup frozen strawberries
• ½ frozen banana
• ⅔ cup apple juice or cider
• A handful of ice (more if using fresh fruit)

Directions:

• Blend everything together.
• Try adding a tablespoon of almond or sunflower seed butter for some extra creaminess, or a carrot for an extra nutritional boost.

• Amethyst: Widely known as the "sobriety stone," its name comes from the Greek word amethystos, meaning "not drunk". It is believed to bring clarity and a sense of calm, help ease cravings, and support spiritual wisdom in recovery.
• Celestite: Known for its soothing properties, celestite can promote mental calm and clarity. It is believed to reduce stress and anxiety, which are often triggers for cravings, and can aid communication during recovery.
• Lepidolite: Containing lithium, which is known to help stabilize moods, lepidolite is considered a stone of transition and hope. It is thought to assist with emotional dependency, reduce stress and anxiety, and help with releasing old behavioral patterns.
• Rose Quartz: This is the stone of unconditional love and is used for emotional healing. It is thought to help individuals overcome past trauma, promote self-love, and improve relationships with others, which are all vital parts of recovery.
• Clear Quartz: Sometimes called the "master healer," this crystal is believed to amplify energy and thoughts. It is used to help clear addictive thought patterns, ease withdrawal symptoms, and promote mental clarity.
• Hematite: A grounding and protective stone, hematite is said to strengthen willpower and help curb overindulgence. It may help overcome habitual behaviors and boost self-esteem.
• Obsidian: This black volcanic glass is used to help one see the truth and face the darker aspects of addiction. It can help in processing depression, anxiety, and anger, and reveal inner strength.
• Tiger's Eye: This stone is thought to increase personal power, boost motivation, and provide the courage to face challenges. It is also believed to bring new opportunities and stabilize emotions.
• Onyx: As a protective and grounding stone, onyx is believed to help with detachment from old behaviors and to encourage self-control. 
  

• Ashwagandha
• Kudzu
• Milk thistle
• St. John's wort

• Nux Vomica: When alcohol use disorder is in its earliest stages, it's easier to leave. For those people who have just started to fall prey to alcohol, Nux Vomica is a wonder medicine. It is administered for faster relief against drinking problems. It starts showing its effects within a month’s time.
• Sulphur: Sulphur is a medicine which helps in curing many health issues. It is mostly prescribed to those who have started experiencing liver issues due to excessive drinking. One of the vital organs of the body, the liver, is affected when someone drinks excessively. Thus, to prevent degeneration of the liver, sulphur is usually prescribed.
• Cannabis Indica: Marijuana is often treated as a medicinal plant. There are many extracts derived from this plant which is later on used to make many useful medicines. One such homoeopathic medicine is Cannabis Indica. It helps in not only detoxing the body against the ill effects of alcohol use disorder but also helps in preventing associated symptoms to show up.
• Natrum Mur: This medicine is derived from the extracts of what you know to be simple common salt. Once consumed it helps in blood cell production, cellular regulation, and albumin production. These help in coping up with extreme alcoholism. At times, alcohol use disorder is triggered in people due to depression. Natrum Mur also helps in coping up with depression.
• Avena Sativa: This is derived from the oat leaves. Just as oats themselves are considered to be one of the healthiest foods to consume, this medicine made from the oat leaves is no less. It helps to relax the senses and detoxifies the body against alcohol.
• Acid Sulph.: A marvelous medicine if someone has a family history of alcohol use disorder.
• Quercus: Works wonderfully in mother tincture form.

• Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT)
• Relapse Prevention
• 12-step facilitation therapy

• Meditation
• Lifestyle Changes (such as eating better, exercising, getting enough sleep, staying hydrated, reducing stress, and staying away from alcohol)
• Support Groups (such as online support groups, AA, Celebrate Recovery, Green Recovery and Sobriety Support, and SMART Recovery)
• Therapy (such as cognitive behavior therapy and family counseling
• Acupuncture

• Rosemary oil
• Grapefruit oil
• Frankincense oil
• Ylang ylang oil
• Lavender oil
• Bergamot oil
• Basil oil
• Chamomile oil
• Clove oil
• Peppermint oil
• Eucalyptus oil
• Sweet orange oil
• Lemongrass oil
• Tea tree oil
  

Please see Dr. Jocelin's Essential Oils on the NS Wholesale Website