HealthinRecovery.com's Blog

Reasons for Recovering Alcoholics to Avoid Sugar

2011-07-14T15:51:00.000-04:00

Alcoholic / Addict or not, sugar is not healthy for any of us based on the many health reasons to avoid sugar. “Living Sober” and some of the other AA literature actually encourages the newly recovering alcoholic to utilize sugar (candy, cookies) in times of physical cravings for alcohol. This alternative - sugar - is obviously a better choice than picking up a drink! However, many of us recovering alcoholics and addicts develop a habit of continuous sugar use and abuse well beyond those early days in sobriety, when the physical cravings have long since passed.

More follow up articles will cover the crucial sugar / alcoholism connection and what we can do to address issues related to it. In the meantime, take two minutes to read the list below about how sugar affects our health and wellbeing. When we educate ourselves to understand WHY something is unhealthy for us, we are much more likely to avoid the unhealthy substance!

The following list of reasons to avoid sugar is from Dr. Victor Frank, founder/creator of Total Body Modification. Read the 78 reasons to avoid sugar:

1. Sugar can suppress the immune system.
2. Sugar can upset the body's mineral balance.
3. Sugar can cause hyperactivity, anxiety, concentration difficulties, and crankiness in children.
4. Sugar can drowsiness and decreased activity in children.
5. Sugar can adversely affect children's school grades.
6. Sugar can produce a significant rise in triglycerides.
7. Sugar contributes to a weakened defense against bacterial infection.
8. Sugar can cause kidney damage.
9. Sugar can reduce helpful high density cholesterol.
10. Sugar can promote an elevation of harmful cholesterol.
11. Sugar may lead to chromium deficiency.
12. Sugar may cause copper deficiency.
13. Sugar interferes with absorption of calcium and magnesium.
14. Sugar may lead to cancer of the breast, ovaries, prostate, and rectum.
15. Sugar can cause colon cancer with an increased risk in women.
16. Sugar can be a risk factor in gall bladder cancer.
17. Sugar can increase fasting levels of blood glucose.
18. Sugar can weaken eyesight.
19. Sugar raises the level of a neurotransmitter called serotonin, which can narrow blood vessels.
20. Sugar can cause hypoglycemia.
21. Sugar can produce acidic stomach.
22. Sugar can raise adrenaline levels in children.
23. Sugar can increase the risk of coronary heart disease.
24. Sugar can speed the aging process, causing wrinkles and gray hair.
25. Sugar can lead to alcoholism.
26. Sugar can produce tooth decay.
27. Sugar can contribute to weight gain and obesity.
28. High intake of sugar increases the risk of Crohn's disease and Ulcerative Colitis.
29. Sugar can case a raw, inflamed intestinal tract in person with gastric or duodenal ulcers.
30. Sugar can cause arthritis.
31. Sugar can cause asthma.
32. Sugar can cause candidiasis (yeast infection).
33. Sugar can lead to the formation of gallstones.
34. Sugar can lead to the formation of kidney stones.
35. Sugar can cause ischemic heart disease.
36. Sugar can cause appendicitis.
37. Sugar can exacerbate the symptoms of multiple sclerosis.
38. Sugar can indirectly cause hemorrhoids.
39. Sugar can cause varicose veins.
40. Sugar can elevate glucose and insulin responses in oral contraception users.
41. Sugar can lead to periodontal disease.
42. Sugar can contribute to osteoporosis.
43. Sugar contributes to saliva acidity.
44. Sugar can cause a decrease in insulin sensitivity.
45. Sugar leads to a decreased glucose tolerance.
46. Sugar can decrease growth hormone.
47. Sugar can increase total cholesterol.
48. Sugar can increase systolic blood pressure.
49. Sugar can change the structure of protein causing interference with protein absorption.
50. Sugar causes food allergies.
51. Sugar can contribute to diabetes.
52. Sugar can cause toxemia during pregnancy.
53. Sugar can contribute to eczema in children.
54. Sugar can cause cardiovascular disease.
55. Sugar can impair the structure of DNA.
56. Sugar can cause cataracts.
57. Sugar can cause emphysema.
58. Sugar can cause atherosclerosis.
59. Sugar can cause free radical formation in the bloodstream.
60. Sugar lowers the enzymes' abilities to function.
61. Sugar can cause the loss of tissue elasticity and function.
62. Sugar can cause liver cells to divide, increasing the size of the liver.
63. Sugar can increase the amount of fat in the liver.
64. Sugar can increase kidney size and produce pathological changes in the kidney.
65. Sugar can overstress the pancreas, causing damage.
66. Sugar can increase the body's fluid retention.
67. Sugar can cause constipation.
68. Sugar can cause myopia (nearsightedness).
69. Sugar can compromise the lining of the capillaries.
70. Sugar can cause hypertension.
71. Sugar can cause headaches, including migraines.
72. Sugar can cause an increase in certain brain waves, which can alter the mind's ability to think clearly.
73. Sugar can cause depression.
74. Sugar can increase insulin responses in those consuming high-sugar diets compared to low-sugar diets.
75. Sugar increases bacterial fermentation in the colon.
76. Sugar can cause hormonal imbalance.
77. Sugar can increase blood platelet adhesiveness, which increases risk of blood clots.
78. Sugar can increase the risk of Alzheimer's Disease.

Clearly, sugar has a wide array of adverse effects on our health. Recovering alcoholics and addicts in particular need to be educated on the influence of this substance so commonly consumed inside and outside the rooms of 12 step meetings and rehabs. Look for follow up articles coming soon on the topic of sugar and its role in alcoholism / addiction, and how and why to avoid sugar in recovery.

Tools For Codependency

2011-03-03T15:00:00.000-05:00

Many recovering alcoholics and addicts discover in recovery that they also have struggles associated with codependency. Historically, the problem known as codependency arose from Alcoholics Anonymous and the realization that the family members of alcoholics had their own unique set of character traits and relationship difficulties, and so the program known as Alanon was born. However, we know today that dealing with codependency isn’t solely an issue for those in Alanon; it is pervasive among members of A.A. and N.A. as well. Many alcoholics and addicts come from families with some history of alcoholism or other addictions. Typically adult children of alcoholics (ACOA), or adults that grew up in some other similar dysfunctional family situation, tend to have these codependent traits that cause difficulty in their relationships.

There are 12 step programs that specifically address the issue of codependency such as Alanon, ACOA, and CODA (codependents anonymous). Some treatment centers also offer programs specifically designed to help people address these issues. For example, one renowned rehab center - Caron Foundation in Pennsylvania – not only treats addiction but also offers a “Breakthrough” personal growth workshop that involves a 5-day program that focuses in depth on the root of codependency issues. If you have the ability to attend this popular workshop, it is a great place to start if you are just beginning to recognize codependency issues, at any stage in your sobriety / recovery.

A primary objective of HealthInRecovery is to help connect people in recovery to additional resources to augment whatever 12step program of recovery they hopefully already utilize. After all, Bill W. encouraged us to seek “outside help” in addition to A.A. With that in mind, a fantastic simple tool known as Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT) could be the most important “outside” self-help method to have in your toolkit. The following is a review I wrote after reading the e-book called “EFT For Codependency Recovery” by J.P. Bailey that teaches how to use EFT directly on codependency issues:

Upon learning of J.P. Bailey’s work, I was immediately struck by the crucial need that it addresses by brilliantly blending her experience and research on codependency with the growing research on energy psychology and EFT. What a natural fit and effective solution to share with the world to empower the millions struggling with recovery. Her book is a refreshing straight forward explanation of the many codependency traits common to adult children of dysfunction, followed by a comprehensive step-by-step manual to immediately incorporate the tool of EFT to accelerate codependency recovery. I am constantly reminded of the pervasiveness of codependency amidst the recovery community, and EFT is a phenomenal simple tool to help address this otherwise complex and extremely challenging issue.
J.P. Bailey has shared an important contribution to the recovery field with her book and manual, EFT For Codependency Recovery. I confidently recommend it to all my readers, colleagues, and clients.

There is an abundance of literature on the subject of codependency. Explore the help that is available, via 12step programs, specialists, specialized programs such as Breakthrough at Caron Foundation, and other great tools such as EFT for Codependency Recovery, to overcome the effects of this pervasive condition among alcoholics and addicts and enjoy healthier relationships, emotional health, and freedom from codependency in sobriety and recovery.

AA Success Rate

2011-02-26T12:38:00.000-05:00

With Charlie Sheen’s latest rant claiming that AA is a cult and dismissing it as an effective solution supposedly having only a 5% success rate, this controversial topic seems blog-worthy. The “cult” part is not even worth addressing as it is so preposterous, and if Sheen was really an AA member “for 22 years” he should certainly know that is a classic ridiculous myth. The success rate of Alcoholics Anonymous, however, is a more interesting topic…

Dr. Drew Pinsky, celebrity addiction specialist, was approached by TMZ about Charlie Sheen’s comments and noted that Sheen had a point about the success rate not being great, yet in the same breathe Dr. Drew clarifies, “but [A.A.] DOES work when people do it!”

A.A. Success Rate Impossible to Measure

From the time spent in Research Methods classes long ago, I can confidently say that it is impossible to accurately measure the success rate of Alcoholics Anonymous. There are simply so many factors that make it impossible, and countless variables that can’t be controlled for a valid study. I won’t waste our time detailing all of them here, so you’ll just have to trust me on that if you have no background in scientific research. Besides the obvious (how does one study and track an anonymous population?), I will just address a couple key points that come to mind.

How do you define success in AA? And how do you define AA membership? The problem is that most people who attempt to estimate the AA success rate base it on the number of AA members with a certain length of sobriety reported (which again, is impossible to measure anyway) compared to an overall number of “AA members” (also impossible to accurately measure!). This leads to the question of who is considered “members”.

In the 12 traditions of AA, all that is required for membership is “a desire to stop drinking”. Even by that loose definition, you still couldn’t include every single person who has attended an AA meeting because there are plenty of people who are court ordered to attend (apparently our judicial system thinks the success rate is high enough to warrant AA attendance mandatory for offenders suspected to have a drinking problem).

A.A. Meeting Attendance Today

There was a better chance at more accurately estimating the success rate of AA in the early days, when there were few groups, and members tended to have just one local meeting they attended… in contrast to today, where in some areas you could attend several different meetings in the same day in the same town… and the meetings may have 50+ in attendance which also makes it difficult to keep track of who is who, much less who has been sober for how long and who is actually attempting to work the 12 steps.

Every day, countless individuals wander into an AA meeting just to check it out. Thousands more go to numerous meetings but never attempt to start and/or complete working on all 12 steps which are the basis of AA’s method of recovery. For example, the AA literature states that those who do not complete the 5th step are very likely to relapse…. They also wrote of their own attempts at recovery: “half measures availed us nothing”. So certainly the founders expected that members must work the 12 steps if the individuals truly wished to acquire long term sobriety, as the founders did.

“Dry” or “Sober”


30 million Big Books sold

AA is a 12 step program, not a “just go to meetings” program. It is a spiritual program of recovery based on actively working a process of 12 steps and integrating them into one’s life. You can’t measure that – it’s subjective by nature. You can measure if someone is “clean” or “dry” from drugs and alcohol for a period of time, but is difficult to measure true sobriety. AA founding member, Bill Wilson advocated emotional sobriety, and the happier life that results from being emotionally sober (aka alcohol-free AND living spiritually). …which is why when Charlie Sheen publicly spews negative angry rants, and in the same moment claims he is “clean and sober”, sober AA members must shake their heads as while he might be clean of drugs and alcohol but he does not sound the least bit emotionally sober.

Success Rate of the Early A.A. Members

In the early days of AA, when it was much easier to get somewhat of an accurate estimate of membership and length of sobriety, the founders did attempt to estimate the success rate. In the foreword to the 2nd edition of the book Alcoholics Anonymous (the main text of AA), printed in 1955 just 16 years after the original edition, they wrote:

“Of alcoholics who came to A.A. and really tried, 50% got sober at once and remained that way; 25% sobered up after some relapses, and among the remainder, those who stayed on with A.A. showed improvement. Other thousands came to a few A.A. meetings and at first decided they didn't want the program. But great numbers of these-about two out of three-began to return as time passed.”

Wow, so essentially they reported at least a 75% sobriety success rate of those who kept showing up and working at it. That was before the days of our modern rehabs, outpatient services, alternative 12 step programs, countless self-help books, etc. It was straight AA; the spiritual 12 step program where people were encouraged to work all 12 steps right away as Bill did, and they only focused on the main text of Alcoholics Anonymous as the instructions for sober living.

If there were a way to measure the amount of people who actively participate in AA meetings and work the 12 steps as recommended by the founders of AA, then that would be the population to survey for length of sobriety to determine the success rate of AA as a program! I wish there were a way, as I am confident the success rate would be high for those whom are honestly, willingly, and consistently working through the suggested 12 steps of recovery outlined by the founders of A.A. in the original text of Alcoholics Anonymous. …and with an accurate report of A.A.’s actual effectiveness, Charlie Sheen couldn’t blame AA’s success rate for his chronic relapses.

Charlie Sheen didn’t learn the 12 Traditions apparently…

One of the reasons Alcoholics Anonymous established the 12 Traditions was to address this type of issue- when a celebrity announces their participation in AA and then proceeds to comment about AA in the media, they are representing A.A. which is exactly what the Tradition says not to do (regardless of positive or negative comments about the program, AA does not wish to be represented by any individual on the level of press). It is good that Sheen does not claim to be a member of AA currently while his behavior seems manic, full of anger and grandiosity. As another Tradition states, AA is a program of attraction, not promotion.

Hopefully the countless hopeless alcoholics who could indeed benefit from Alcoholics Anonymous were not influenced by the ranting of one sick misguided celebrity who may be “dry” of his own accord but it not “sober” by AA standards. Thankfully, AA as a whole is too strong to be affected by Charlie Sheen’s public inaccurate defamation.

Nutrition in Alcoholic Myopathy Treatment

2011-01-09T19:44:00.000-05:00

Upon reviewing the research on the treatments and the causes of alcoholic myopathy, there is an obvious relationship between malnutrition and alcoholic myopathy yet little can be found regarding specific nutritional recommendations in the treatment of chronic alcoholic myopathy for those interested in addressing this important factor.

As there is a need for more studies on this sparsely researched topic, it is difficult to predict what specific effects on alcoholic myopathy may be expected from nutritional interventions. However, to get this dysfunction in the first place, one must drink alcohol excessively; and since heavy or chronic drinking leads to malnutrition, it is wise to consider nutritional therapy regardless of whether it will have a definite effect on the myopathy itself. Nonetheless, in determining a nutritional approach it makes sense to first consider the known deficiencies associated with myopathy…

Protein, Amino Acids in Alcoholic Myopathy Treatment

Since protein deficiency has been directly linked to myopathy, it is a good place to start. A nutritionist or health coach may be able to guide you in evaluating your protein intake to ensure you are getting the proper support of that key macronutrient involved in muscle health. While protein deficiency might have been a contributing factor to the myopathy, adequate protein intake is certainly necessary in the recovery from muscle atrophy.

Amino acids are the building blocks of protein, which is synthesized to build muscle. Some suggest that supplementing with amino acids may help accelerate the repair of muscle damage in myopathy.

Alcohol use disrupts the production of growth hormone, which also plays a major role in muscle development. Research suggests that decreased levels of growth hormone may also contribute to the myopathy of skeletal muscles, as with alcoholic myopathy. Certain amino acids stimulate the pituitary gland to produce and release growth hormone.

Prime™ Ultra Secretagogue is an excellent amino acids supplement recommended by many doctors to naturally and safely stimulate the body’s natural production of human growth hormone. It helps build protein to build lean muscle, in addition to offering a multitude of other health benefits. Click here to learn all about it.

Antioxidants in Alcoholic Myopathy Treatment

There is evidence that suggests free radical damage in the pathogenesis of alcoholic myopathy. Free radicals are unpaired electrons, aka reactive oxygen species, which cause a chain reaction of damage of cells as they attempt to steal their missing electron from any nearby source. Antioxidants are able to replenish the unpaired electrons thus ending the cycle of damage. However, without sufficient antioxidants to combat the abundance of free radicals, the damaging process continues - and can affect any area of the body, including muscle tissue. Free radicals are caused by many factors including environmental toxins, alcohol, smoking, and physical and emotional stress to name a few.

Active and recovering alcoholics arguably have even more oxidative stress (free radicals) than the average person, and thus would benefit from antioxidant supplementation regardless of the potential benefit in the treatment of myopathy. Specific antioxidants called OPCs are awesome free radical fighters that also are known to help maintain normal muscle and nerve function – OPCs are potentially beneficial not only for myopathies but neuropathies as well; and some research suggests peripheral neuropathy may co-occur with alcoholic myopathy in 72% of cases!).

We also know that alcohol promotes inflammation in the body. Regardless of the type of myopathy, an effective antioxidant can address any inflammatory issues likely present in the recovering alcoholic (and definitely present in the active alcoholic!). Certain OPCs can act as a natural anti-inflammatory agent and are also known for a multitude of other health benefits. Click here to read more about the amazing benefits and science behind a highly absorbable and powerful OPC supplement.

Calcium and Alcoholic Myopathy Treatment

Research suggests chronic hypocalcemia (deficiency in calcium) may contribute to the increase in muscle damage in alcoholic myopathy. Everyone knows calcium is important in bone health, but it is also crucial in muscle function. Calcium is the most abundant mineral in the body, crucial to many health functions. All muscle fibers use calcium. Alcohol impairs the absorption of calcium!

Some other factors affecting your calcium levels…
Myth: “I drink milk, so I get plenty of calcium”. Fact: the calcium in most dairy products we consume is not bioavailable (we don’t absorb it!). You are better off skipping the dairy and increasing your green vegetables; they have calcium that you will actually absorb.

Smokers – studies have shown that smoking interferes with efficient calcium absorbtion. Soda drinking (regardless if caffeinated or not, diet or regular) depletes calcium. Coffee and caffeine deplete calcium.

Also, those deficient in vitamin D are at risk for calcium deficiency as well because vitamin D is necessary for absorption of calcium… and many myopathy sufferers have been found to be deficient in vitamin D!

There are a lot of garbage calcium supplements on the shelves. Many have the wrong form, wrong amounts, and/or not the correct additional ingredient necessary for calcium absorption (ie vitamin D3 and magnesium) in the proper amounts. Individuals with alcoholism in particular have done damage to their digestive systems, so it is imperative to take the most absorbable form of a high quality calcium supplement. Click here for information on the best calcium supplement we have found (see label).

Vitamin D in Alcoholic Myopathy Treatment

Research has concluded that low vitamin D levels are related to muscle fiber atrophy, and vitamin D deficiency itself may induce myopathy. Low vitamin D levels are frequent in alcoholics. Studies show that vitamin D stimulates growth of muscle fibers. Regardless of whether the vitamin D deficiency caused the myopathy, vitamin D is helpful in recovery from the muscle atrophy. Experts estimate that most of the population is deficient in vitamin D. If in doubt, ask your physician for a blood test to evaluate your 25-hydroxy vitamin D levels; levels should be above 50 ng/ml (125 nmol/L) year-round. Read more about the research, benefits, and FAQ on a high quality vitamin D supplement here.

In conclusion, hopefully more will be revealed in the future on this topic of nutritional supplementation in the treatment of alcoholic myopathy sufferers. In the meantime, as individuals seek to integrate a nutritional approach to treatment of alcoholic myopathy, a few important supplements to consider include: Prime™ Ultra Secretagogue, OPC-3, Calcium Complete, and Vitamin D.

Alcoholic Myopathy

2010-08-13T15:42:00.001-04:00

What Is Alcoholic Myopathy?

Type 2 muscle atrophy

Myopathy means muscular disease, and generally refers to a disorder in which muscle weakness develops due to some malfunction of the actual muscle fibers. In addition to muscle weakness, symptoms of myopathy may also include muscle cramps or spasm and muscle stiffness. While some recovering alcoholics may have never heard of alcoholic myopathy, it more common than one may think. Some research indicates that about one third of heavy long-term drinkers, aka alcoholics, develop skeletal myopathy.

The history of the myopathy related to alcoholics can be traced back to the 19th century, when there were reports of “alcoholic paralysis” which is believed to be referencing the muscle disease known today as alcoholic myopathy. Most specifically, in the mid 1800's, Magnus Huss wrote Alcoholismus Chronicus in which he reported identifying muscular weakness in patients resulting from alcohol use. Later, in the 1950’s and 1960’s, researchers went on to discover two distinct types of alcoholic myopathy: acute alcoholic myopathy and chronic alcoholic myopathy.

Acute Alcoholic Myopathy

Acute alcoholic myopathy develops suddenly, during an episode of binge drinking or immediately following during withdrawal. Acute alcoholic myopathy is also called “alcoholic rhabdomyolysis”. It can come on rapidly over the course of a few hours and can advance over a few days before receding over the week, given the individual abstains from alcohol. Acute myopathy can present mild to severe symptoms as a result of myonecrosis, the breakdown of muscle tissue.

Symptoms of acute alcoholic myopathy may include muscle pain and swelling in addition to the classic weakness. Often the acute symptoms are reported upon awakening from an alcoholic stupor; they may also accompany withdrawal symptoms and delirium tremens. Tests have revealed that acute alcoholic myopathy affects type I muscle fibers, which can heal rapidly; however type II muscle fibers are involved in chronic alcoholic myopathy.

Typically, full recovery from acute alcoholic myopathy occurs in a matter of days or weeks; however, in extreme cases when kidney failure or hyperkalemia (abnormal potassium level in the blood) occur, the alcoholic may actually die during the episode of acute myopathy. Otherwise, research has shown it takes about 7 to 10 days for the serum creatine kinase levels (reflecting the health of the muscle) to return to normal range.

Chronic Alcoholic Myopathy

In contrast to the acute form, chronic alcoholic myopathy develops much more gradually and lasts far longer. While the acute version may include muscle pain, chronic alcoholic myopathy is usually painless. The absence of pain and gradual onset may explain why it is frequently overlooked and not diagnosed until the symptoms have been present for several years. The recovery time for chronic myopathy is slower and can take many months (again, given the patient abstains from alcohol use).

Chronic alcoholic myopathy is associated with long term alcohol abuse (i.e. years of daily alcoholic drinking). It evolves slowly, over weeks or months as opposed to its acute counterpart which can develop in a matter of hours or days. The main symptom of chronic alcoholic myopathy is muscle weakness and atrophy. It affects proximal muscles, and type 2 muscle fibers. Interestingly, long term corticosteroid use can lead to similar type 2 atrophy as well, a.k.a. “steroid myopathy”.

Other disorders which may co-occur with chronic alcoholic myopathy include peripheral neuropathy. While with myopathy the primary dysfunction exists within the muscle itself, with neuropathy the dysfunction pertains to the nervous system (i.e. nerves or brain). Some research suggests peripheral neuropathy is associated in 72% of cases.

What Causes Alcoholic Myopathy?

Studies have linked the damaging effects of toxic ethanol (drinking alcohol) to alcoholic myopathy. The injurious effects of acetaldehyde as well as ethanol have been directly linked with alcoholic myopathy. Interestingly, acetaldehyde is also a prime suspect in the cause of hangover symptoms.

On a molecular level, the exact mechanism behind how alcohol produces myopathy remains elusive. Various studies and theories have been presented. Impaired IGF-1 signaling, protein deficiency, vitamin and mineral deficiencies, and other factors have been considered. For example, some research results suggested that protein deficiency and ethanol contributed to muscle atrophy in rats given alcohol and those underfed protein had the greatest myopathic effect.

Research suggests that ethanol consumption and malnutrition can lead to alcoholic myopathy, and most likely it is a combination of both working synergistically to produce the myopathy. The long term effect of alcohol abuse itself tends to cause malnutrition, so long term daily drinkers set themselves up to be malnourished, and thus also more vulnerable to the possibility of chronic myopathy.

Treatment for Alcoholic Myopathy

If the root of alcoholic myopathy is ethanol consumption and malnutrition, obviously abstinence from alcohol and proper nutrition are the best place to start. Alcoholic myopathy generally begins to reverse once the individual achieves complete abstinence from alcohol. So if you are a newly recovering alcoholic experiencing chronic myopathy, it is important to know the recovery typically takes many weeks or several months.

As the recovery time frame varies, proactive steps such as nutritional interventions may help to accelerate the recovery process. Physical therapy and acupuncture are sometimes utilized as well to target the effects of chronic myopathy.

Here is a quick response from a neurosurgeon who answered an online inquiry from an individual who asked: is there any treatment for alcoholic myopathy? The MD answered…

“Alcoholic myopathy is a tough condition:
1. stop alcohol
2. correct liver dysfunction
3. get a muscle biopsy to be sure the dx is correct.
4. See a nutritionist
5. Be followed carefully by a darned good neurologist
6. slow rehab with careful attention to enzyme changes.”

There seems to be little information on specific nutritional information to benefit individuals suffering from alcoholic myopathy. After further research, a follow up article is posted with more detailed suggestions for a proactive holistic approach to potentially accelerating recovery from alcoholic myopathy - check out article on "Nutrition in Alcoholic Myopathy Treatment".

PTSD in Sobriety

2010-07-15T16:50:00.001-04:00

Connection between PTSD and Alcoholics/Addiction

PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder) and alcoholism / addiction often go hand in hand. Self-medicating symptoms of anxiety and depression associated with PTSD can lead to substance abuse. Also, active alcoholics or addicts may be more susceptible to experiencing certain types of trauma based on circumstances and potential risky behavior sometimes associated with addiction. Therefore while people who have endured trauma are more likely to have drinking problems, people with drinking problems are also more likely to have experienced psychological trauma of some kind.

What is PTSD

Post Traumatic Stress Syndrome can develop after exposure to an event that causes psychological trauma. The exposure can involve actually experiencing the event or witnessing the trauma. Symptoms of PTSD may include nightmares or flashbacks, sleep disturbances, avoidance or negative responses to associations with the trauma (i.e. people, places, situations), emotional numbing, anger, hypervigilance, or anxiety. The symptoms must be present for more than a month after the event, otherwise it may be “acute stress disorder” which is short-term. Untreated, the symptoms of PTSD can be experienced for years beyond the initial trauma. Finally, for the official diagnosis of PTSD, the set of symptoms must impair normal life functions i.e. in work or relationships. Note: “unmanageability” comes to mind.
People commonly associate PTSD with individuals who have suffered an obvious major trauma such as with combat veterans and abuse or rape survivors… Indeed, there is a prevalence of PTSD in those populations but it is certainly not limited to those.

ACOA and PTSD

PTSD is not always caused by a single traumatic event; it can be from a series of intense or even more subtle traumatic experiences. Adult Children of Alcoholics (ACOA) are an example of a subgroup that may be particularly likely to have endured traumatic events in childhood leading to PTSD as an adult. Abuse, neglect, or other psychological trauma may be experienced as the result of growing up in an alcoholic environment, in which one or more parents or caregivers were untreated alcoholics / addicts.

Many recovering alcoholics and addicts are also ACOA. Adult Children of Alcoholism in particular should consider ruling out PTSD if suffering any of the symptoms associated with post-traumatic stress. While they may not recall one particularly traumatic event, an ACOA may have experienced a series of less intense but traumatic experiences which can lead to PTSD alike.

Which Came 1st: the PTSD or the Addiction?

It’s sort of a “chicken or the egg” situation. Trauma can lead to unhealthy coping mechanisms in an effort to numb the pain, and thus lead to substance dependence. By the same token, when engaging in behaviors that accompany an addictive lifestyle, an alcoholic or addict is more likely to be in a situation where trauma can occur. Or both may be the case; some alcoholics may experience traumatic events prior to active addiction as well as during their active years. Binge drinkers may even not recall exposure to a traumatic event if it occurred during a blackout!

Dealing with PTSD in Sobriety

Regardless of when the trauma occurred - before or during active addiction - untreated PTSD is sure to affect an individual after starting the process of addiction recovery. As most therapists will tell you, you have a much better chance at healing your psychological traumas if you first put down the alcohol and drugs. Once the initial fog lifts and you are sober, it can be your first time really experiencing the effects of PTSD if you have been self-medicating with booze or drugs for years.

In early sobriety, previously numbed anger or anxiety associated with PTSD may surface. The alcohol and drug use could have mased sleep disturbances otherwise present with PTSD, thus resulting in sleep difficulties or insomnia in recovery (see related article on dealing with insomnia in sobriety). Certainly anger, anxiety and sleep problems can only aggravate the daily struggle to stay sober in early recovery. These symptoms alone do not necessarily equate to PTSD but it is a good idea to consider ruling it out.

“You’re as sick as your secrets.” Intrusive thoughts regarding old memories can surprise the newly recovering alcoholic who may have thought he/she had dealt with the memories or left the past in the past. Consider how many people relapse in anticipation of step 4, or when between step 4 and 5. Imagine uncovering memories of old traumas which trigger heavy emotions… leading to the danger of picking up a drink or drug before sharing it all with a sponsor.

Even when the recovering alcoholic with PTSD makes it through the 5th step with a sponsor, he/she may be disheartened by a lack of relief that may have been anticipated based on the experiences shared by others who successfully complete the 5th step who do not suffer from PTSD and thus may find more relief from the steps alone.

Treatment for PTSD in Sobriety

Clearly if there are concerns of potential PTSD in sobriety, it is crucial to seek treatment. The 12 steps are a great tool that will help support the process of addressing the PTSD, but outside help is recommended for recovering alcoholics/addicts who may suffer from post-traumatic stress. Remember, A.A. literature states: “God has abundantly supplied this world with fine doctors, psychologists, and practitioners of various kinds. Do not hesitate to take your health problems to such persons.”

The ideal treatment for any disorder is one which treats the underlying cause of the disorder. Let’s face it: PTSD is not a deficiency of medication… although sometimes people suffering from PTSD can end up on anti-depressants or anti-anxiety drugs from their primary physician or psychiatrist. Medication alone is not appropriate treatment for PTSD; the drugs only serve to medicate some of the symptoms in that case. This is why the typical recommendations for treatment of PTSD involve psychotherapy (not psychiatry), typically in the form of a cognitive behavioral therapy.

A particularly effective and clinically supported modality in this field is EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing). EMDR has been rated by the APA in the highest category of effectiveness and research support for treating trauma, based on the extensive clinical research performed validating it as a significantly effective treatment modality for PTSD in particular. EMDR can safely accelerate the healthy processing and healing from the traumatic memories underlying PTSD. To learn more about this effective modality, visit the EMDR Institute.

Note: the long term emotional stress of PTSD can contribute to physical stress on the body as well – see related article on nutritional support during stress to address the physical aspect.

In summary, when present PTSD is a crucial component to address in sobriety. Whether newly recovering or sober for a number of years, whenever this becomes evident it is necessary to address. You need not suffer silently with PTSD, and the symptoms can put you at risk for relapse. As with alcoholism, there is a solution! Utilize all the tools and outside resources available to effectively deal with PTSD in sobriety, and visit HealthInRecovery.com for more health information pertaining to recovering alcoholics and addicts.

Natural Cures For Insomnia

2010-06-09T15:52:00.001-04:00

Dealing with Insomnia in Recovery

Getting enough sleep is essential for recovering alcoholics and addicts, as insomnia and poor sleep can not only negatively affect your health but also can contribute to risk for relapse. The slogan H.A.L.T. reminds us of four common risk factors to watch for daily. “T” is last but not least! Tired? Are you sleeping enough and getting a good night’s sleep?

Alcohol affected your sleep and the quality of it. Whether you are in early sobriety or have long term recovery, research suggests that recovering alcoholics regardless of recovery time have a higher incidence of insomnia than the general population. The studies also suggested that difficulty falling asleep is more of an issue in recovery than staying asleep.

The Caffeine Factor in Insomnia

When newly sober, some recovering alcoholics and addicts start drinking lots coffee even if they were never coffee drinkers in the past. It is easy to justify the caffeine habit, which typically doesn’t end you up in jails or institutions, in contrast to the booze or other drugs you kicked. But in early recovery, a healthy sleep cycle is often one of the last things to finally normalize. When a sponsor hears from a newcomer that he/she is having trouble sleeping, the immediate reply is typically “how much coffee or soda are you drinking?” and “and how late in the day do you have your last cup?” Experience dictates to rule out this common and significant factor first, as caffeine is a known culprit to disrupt sleep!

The Depression Factor with Insomnia

Depression and insomnia often go hand in hand. Until recently, professionals had assumed the link between depression and insomnia was that the depression caused the insomnia. However, when they studied patients with both who were treated for the depression, they were surprised to find that depression relief did not result in insomnia relief. Newer studies actually suggest that treating the insomnia will in turn likely help relieve the depression for those who suffer from both.

Some research provides evidence that 55 to 60 percent of patients with depression who do not respond initially to antidepressant medication improve with the addition of tryptophan supplementation. Tryptophan has been used not only for insomnia, but also in the treatment of depression either alone or in combination with antidepressants.

Diet for Healthy Sleep

Here is yet another health issue that can be helped significantly with the proper diet. Again - like with weight loss, mood, energy, etc – the key in eating is balancing your blood sugar. If you eat right throughout the day, you are more likely to get to sleep easily and sleep better through night. Frequent small meals throughout the day, made up of lower glycemic foods, will help balance your blood sugar and thus support your goal of insomnia relief. For more information on a healthy eating plan in recovery click this link.

Meditation and Hypnosis for Insomnia

Meditation is known to provide all sorts of health benefits, including relief for insomnia and sleep problems. Research presented last year investigating the effects of daily meditation on insomnia sufferers found that all of the following improved in the patients using meditation: sleep latency, total sleep time, total wake time, wake after sleep onset, sleep efficiency, sleep quality and depression. Regardless of you amount of time in recovery from alcoholism or addiction, it is never too early to start incorporating some form of meditation into your daily life, especially if you are experiencing insomnia!

Guided meditations and hypnosis audio programs can also be very effective for those suffering with sleep problems. Hypnosis helps your mind and body relax, and can help your brain learn how to easily go into an alpha state (for healthy sleep) and utilize the subconscious to reduce worry and anxiety that tend to pervade the daily thoughts of insomnia sufferers. You can seek out a local hypnotherapist, or save money by trying out an audio download online. Licensed hypnotherapist Steve G. Jones is a well-known expert whose very affordable recordings come highly recommended - check them out at this link and you can find an audio program specifically for insomnia there.

Natural Supplement for Sleep Problems

You have may have heard of tryptophan in terms of Thanksgiving, a holiday definitely not associated with insomnia! The real culprit behind post-thanksgiving dinner sleepiness is this essential amino acid present in the turkey, L-Tryptophan. Tryptophan is a precursor to serotonin production followed by melatonin - which aids in sleep. Serotonin is also the feel good neurotransmitter so supplementation with a quality L-tryptophan product has also been shown to improve mood. Note that you can also take tryptophan day and/or night. A dose before bedtime is ideal for helping those who have trouble falling asleep. A dose in the daytime can also help elevate your mood and will not make you sleepy. L-tryptophan also is useful in times of stress or grief, when quitting smoking, and when quitting drinking!

The other great thing about natural supplements like L-tryptophan to support a healthier sleep is that they are not “habit forming”. Obviously recovering alcoholics and addicts in particular ought to consider prescription drugs as the alternative and seek healthier options first, leaving medication as the last resort. Sleep medications such as Ambien can be addictive, and is meant for short-term use only, so it is nice to have a natural solution that is safe to use long-term that addresses insomnia symptoms and also perhaps the underlying cause of the sleep problems.

In summary, if you try just one natural remedy for insomnia give trytophan a try. For a comprehensive approach to combat insomnia both physically and mentally, add in a little meditation during the day and listen to a hypnosis audio at bedtime. In addition to working the 12 steps, recovering alcoholics and addicts can take a proactive approach using natural methods like tryptophan to curb insomnia and thus strengthen relapse prevention and enjoy better health in recovery.

PAWS in Sobriety

2010-05-24T14:15:00.000-04:00

PAWS is not some cute AA acronym that stands for something like Please Act Wisely Sober; PAWS is actually a diagnostic term for a set of symptoms called Post Acute Withdrawal Syndrome that can occur for a long time after you put down the alcohol or other addictive drugs. Research has suggested that up to 95% of recovering alcoholics and addicts when tested show the presence of brain dysfunction. Essentially, that is PAWS – symptoms from a dysfunction in the nervous system after quitting booze and drugs. Not to be confused with Wet Brain Syndrome, PAWS is a temporary condition. Do not panic, this too shall pass! However, you can take positive action to help get through it faster and with more ease!

Symptoms of PAWS

When you first detox off alcohol and/or drugs, acute withdrawal is experienced. After a week or two of continuous abstinence from alcohol and drugs, Post Acute Withdrawal Syndrome may be experienced and can last for 3 months to 2 years into sobriety. For most people, PAWS is regenerative - meaning over time and with proper care the symptoms will diminish and damage can be repaired.

Symptoms of PAWS can include difficulty solving simple problems, reacting either overemotionally or having emotional numbness, sleep disturbances, memory problems, inability to think clearly at times, difficulty managing stress, and sometimes problems with physical coordination may present as well. The cognitive symptoms can lead to diminished self-esteem as well. Note, not all of these symptoms may occur and each does not happen constantly but rather periodically. The severity and length of occurrence of PAWS varies individually; it does not look the same for everyone.

What Causes PAWS

Damage to nervous system from the alcohol and/or drugs causes the physiological nature of PAWS, in combination with the other component of PAWS which is the emotional stress of having to deal with life without the old coping mechanism of drugs or alcohol. How much brain dysfunction your addiction has caused + how much psychosocial stress you experience in sobriety = the severity of PAWS. With proper care, it can be reversed.

Taking Action Against PAWS

“… and courage to change the things I can”. This is one of those things you can take positive action to help get through it more rapidly and in a healthier manner. PAWS causes symptoms that are not particularly conducive to your sobriety. In fact, recent research supports the belief that PAWS can contribute to incidents of relapse. As part of a relapse prevention strategy, it is important to address the physical aspects of your alcoholism which includes taking proactive steps to treat PAWS. Your first couple years sober are difficult enough without the added challenges of PAWS symptoms like sleep disturbances and trouble thinking clearly.
Education is always a good start (Education leads to proper Action which leads to Results!). Getting a better understanding about PAWS can ease some of the anxiety and confusion, and help prevent self-esteem problems that can result in the absence of such awareness.

Next, find healthy ways to manage your stress. Stress can be caused by PAWS and also stress exacerbates the symptoms of PAWS so stress management is key! Working the 12 steps with a sponsor is not only the best method for relapse prevention in general, but also a great component to stress management. Meditation is highly recommended! Find what works for you, it can be as simple as setting time for deep breathing daily. Specific nutritional recommendations can really give you the edge on managing stress as well, see this article for details.

Last but not least, get educated about ways to improve your physical health most specifically in terms of your nervous system. If you do just one thing physically to support your nervous system, supplement with a high quality B vitamin Complex. Bill Wilson, A.A. founder, was a big proponent of supplementing with B vitamins to support recovery! To learn about options for a more detailed and custom approach for your nutritional needs in recovery, see this article.

You are not powerless against PAWS. Post Acute Withdrawal Syndrome can be treated by applying the recommended actions listed above, and you can enjoy a long healthier life sober!

Wet Brain in Sobriety

2010-05-24T13:52:00.001-04:00

Wernicke-Korsakoff Syndrome, alcoholic encephalopathy (brain damage), Korsakoff psychosis, Wernicke’s disease… all these names refer to what is most commonly called by people in recovery as “Wet Brain”. What’s the real story with Wet Brain Syndrome?

You have probably heard the scary stories about the dangers of LSD - people who dropped acid one too many times or had a bad trip just once who would then suffer random hallucinations and psychotic episodes the rest of their life despite never doing acid again. Perhaps the closest thing to that phenomenon of acid flashbacks for alcoholics would be Wet Brain Syndrome since it involves neurological damage and symptoms that can last long after putting the plug in the jug. When “partying” back in the active days, despite maybe a few jokes about killing brain cells, rarely do heavy drinkers think the alcohol could slowly cause such very serious neurological impairment as is the case with Wernicke-Korsakoff Syndrome. And much like the disease of alcoholism itself, wet brain can sneak up on the heavy drinker, as it develops gradually.

Symptoms of Wet Brain

In reality a much better comparison of Wet Brain would be to Alzheimer’s. Dementia, short term memory loss, and confabulation (false memories) characterize wet brain syndrome. Also, Wet Brain aka Wernicke-Korsakoff Syndrome, typically includes problems related to eye movements, balance and gait, and loss of coordination. Some of these symptoms resemble drunkenness; like with the acid flashbacks, despite absence of the drug, the neurological effects can prevail long after the initial damage was inflicted. Other signs include fatigue, irritability, and sleep disturbances. Late stage Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome can even result in coma and death.

If you are in early in sobriety, sometimes concerns of Wet Brain are confused with actually suffering from PAWS. PAWS stands for Post Acute Withdrawl Syndrome which can include symptoms such as inability to think clearly, memory problems, sleep disturbances, emotional overreactions or numbness, sensitivity to stress, and problems with coordination. PAWS is temporary, whereas Wet Brain is typically more permanent. Experts suggest PAWS starts a week or two after abstaining from alcohol and can last for 3 months to 2 years into sobriety!

What Causes Wet Brain

Wet brain is caused by gradual brain damage from thiamin (vitamin B1) deficiency. For alcoholics, this syndrome technically known as Wernicke-Korsakoff, develops gradually as a result of a deficiency of thiamin which leads to brain function decline and even neuron death. Chronic excessive alcohol consumption leads to a multitude of vitamin deficiencies, including that of vitamin B1 a.k.a. thiamin. Thiamin plays a crucial role in glucose metabolism, and anything that inhibits the crucial creation of glucose (which the brain relies on to function) can thus cause the brain to rapidly decline in function.

Active alcoholics typically have a poor diet which contributes to vitamin and mineral deficiencies, however even with healthy eating habits the heavy drinking will interfere with absorption of thiamin.

Can Non-Alcoholics Get Wernicke-Korsakoff Syndrome

While wet brain is mainly associated with alcoholism, sometimes non-drinkers can develop Wernicke’s disease as well. There are other ways to become thiamin deficient and therefore susceptible to Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome, as with the following conditions: severe malnourishment, Chron’s disease, stomach surgery (gastric bypass or stapling), eating disorders involving starvation or vomiting, and even side-effects of chemotherapy.

Can Wet Brain Be Treated

The successful treatment of wet brain depends mainly on the stage of its progression. Early onset of wet brain can be treated and often reversed entirely if caught in time. Anyone exhibiting signs of Wernicke-Korsakoff Syndrome should be given thiamin immediately. Doctors typically administer thiamin intravenously at first. For those looking to supplement on their own, the closest thing to IV is taking a supplement in an isotonic form (for 90-95% absorption, versus 100% with IV, and as little as 20-30% with tablet supplements). In this case, it is recommended to take a B complex supplement rather than choose an individual B vitamin as the various Bs work synergistically together.

Late stage wet brain may be referred to as “Korsakoff psychosis” due to the serious permanent nature of its symptoms. Unfortunately, in its later stages the disease is not reversible.

Patients with Wernicke-Korsakoff Syndrome are sometimes treated with medications used for Alzheimer’s disease when thiamine treatments are ineffective. A more natural alternative to those drugs is Cognitin, a natural cognitive support formula. Cognitin contains the antioxidants acetyl L-Carnitine and alpha lipoic acid (both very beneficial to brain function), and contains vinpocetine (derived from periwinkle extract) which has been used for decades around the world to treat Alzheimer’s and dementia, and is becoming more widely used for general cognitive support.

Do All Recovering Alcoholics Have Some Brain Damage

On a more subtle level, it is probable that all recovering alcoholics have suffered various degrees of cognitive impairment over the course of active drinking years. With this in mind, even the younger and seemingly healthier recovering alcoholics who have no fear of wet brain can benefit from supplementing with a quality vitamin B complex in sobriety (see related article). In fact, researchers have found that supplementing with thiamin (part of B Complex) can also help prevent the development of Wernicke-Korsakoff Syndrome a.k.a. Wet Brain in heavy drinkers.

Good Grief

2010-05-07T12:40:00.000-04:00

GOOD GRIEF?

Dealing with grief and loss in recovery, while excruciating, can be the most significant experience to aid in personal growth and secure a strong relapse prevention foundation. “Pain is the touchstone to all spiritual progress.” Once you get through something that feels so painful that it should kill you, but you survive it -and you survive it without a drink or drug- you then know you can get through anything without a drink or drug. After all, isn’t that basically what sobriety is all about… learning to cope with feelings without picking up a drink or drug? Grief kicks up all the toughest feelings we encounter in life: Shock, anger, despair, sadness, depression, loneliness, guilt, remorse, fear and anxiety. If we can endure the roller coaster of bereavement, a certain level of acceptance awaits us. “And acceptance is the answer to all my problems today”.

In early sobriety, we actually gain our first experience at enduring grief without a drink or drug. Having read Caroline Knapp’s memoir “Drinking: A Love Story”, it was easy to grasp the reality that we actually had a relationship with alcohol/drugs. Perhaps it was your best friend who betrayed you in the end, or your lover that abused you but you kept going back for more. Quitting that relationship cold turkey does produce grief effects. It’s the loss of your liquid courage, your instant oblivion, your coping mechanism to just about any undesired feeling or situation. Not to mention the loss of your perceived identity in relation to the drink- i.e. as the outgoing partier, or whatever the case may have been. The anxiety of “who will I be without my good ol’ pal, Captain Morgan (or Jack Daniels perhaps)?”

Stages of Grief in Recovery

First of course there’s the denial. With addiction, that’s a major symptom of the active disease anyway. With the loss of a loved one, especially if it’s sudden and unexpected, during the initial shock and denial it may actually not feel real – you think, how could something so awful be real? It feels like a nightmare and you just keep expecting to wake up from it.

In the stage known as Bargaining, closely linked to denial, we may try foxhole prayer... “Please God, if you just get me out of this situation, I’ll never [drink] again”. We sometimes flip this concept and it becomes what we’d call Reservations. Reservations are those dangerous exceptions you hold on to in which you justify “if this happens… then I can drink”. Like, I can stay sober but if so-and-so dies, all bets are off. That is how an alcoholic reserves her/his right to drink… under certain circumstances. This obviously is discouraged, and why newcomers are encouraged to drill it into their brains: “don’t drink even no matter what” or sometimes heard “don’t drink, even if you’re a$$ falls off”.

Anger is another stage of grief. The A.A. big book warns “if we were to live we had to be free of anger” … but anger is normal stage of grief; it’s what we do with it that matters. As always, step work with a sponsor helps. It is important when the anger comes to get it out, for example screaming when you can (i.e. alone in car so your neighbors don’t think you’re a lunatic), working out is great for this stage- focus on your anger as you lift weights or whatever exercise you engage in.

Typically just beneath the anger we find sadness. Depression is another symptom of grief. When going through grief, sudden bursts of crying are normal and common. Experience dictates that they become fewer and farther between when you actually let it out when these come on. You may fear “if I start, I’m afraid I won’t be able to stop” but this is not true. How often in meetings (or in general!) do we see people ashamed to cry in public? Letting it out not only will help you, but by example in showing your true feelings of grief you may help countless others too.

Is it the -ism Talking or the Grief?

In recovery, dealing with the depression phase of grief in particular can be confusing. There can be a fine line between grief talking and your disease (stinkin’ thinkin’) talking. How do you know when you are experiencing normal depression/sadness as a stage of grief, versus your addict mindset taking over which is serious cause for concern? Keeping your sobriety first- focusing on your program and keeping it simple. If you are working your program then you know you are not shifting into dangerous “dry drunk” territory and thus whatever emotions are coming up are likely to be the grief and they WILL pass and ease up with time. When in doubt, talk it out with another alcoholic and/or share on group level.

Note- it is common and normal to have thoughts of wishing you could join your lost loved on the other side. This can be scary to experience some suicidal-related thoughts. Again, share them. …Ideally with a professional. Be aware that unless these thoughts get to the point of having a specific plan you wish to carry out, you do not have to fear being institutionalized for sharing these feelings with a professional. It is a common phase of the grief. This too shall pass, really.

Remember that the stages are not always linear… Don’t panic if you feel like “wait, I got through this stage, why am I [angry, sad, whatever] again?” The stages don’t always progress in order and only once… much like the roller coaster of emotion experienced during your first year sober. Just remember that it will even out eventually, so hang on and use your support during the ride.

Tools to Support your Healthy Journey Through Grief

Spiritually…
Thankfully for all the intense emotions that accompany grief, the 12 steps can be applied for support, relief, relapse prevention, and ultimately character growth. Throughout the stages of grief during sobriety utilize your support system as much as possible- friends, family, sponsor, therapist, whatever the case may be. It is easy to isolate during grief and feel very alone, which is particularly dangerous for recovering alcoholics and addicts. Whatever type of prayer and meditation you practice, use it! And again, share share share.

Emotionally…
Intense and sudden grief in particular can lead to symptoms of Post Traumatic Stress Syndrome. Seeking outside help is something of which Bill Wilson was a big fan. An effective scientific and holistic modality called EMDR is often utilized in the psychotherapy field to resolve PTSD and can be very helpful during your grief process. EMDR can help to safely accelerate healing and help process the various emotions during grief to help you on your journey to a place of emotional acceptance. To learn about this particular modality, visit the EMDR Insitute and you can search for licensed certified practitioners near you.

Physically…
Last but not least, grief takes a serious toll on us physically. Being so drained emotionally we can tend to neglect our physical health which during times of grief also suffers a great deal from the stress. Read this important related article on nutritional support during stress. A little support physically can really go a long way in supporting you mentally and emotionally during your stages of grief.

Nutritional Support During Stress

2010-05-04T13:32:00.001-04:00

Need for Nutritional Support During Stress

Our adrenal glands physically endure the biggest brunt of all our emotional stress and thus benefit from nutritional support especially during times of stress. If you are not familiar with these crucial glands, adrenals are involved with the well-known Fight or Flight reaction. The adrenal glands secrete hormones that influence all the major physiological processes in your body. Stress can fatigue them. When your adrenals become weak or burnt out, this can cause you to feel fatigued, and be less equipped physically and mentally to handle the prolonged emotional stress. Also, you will be prone to other health issues as weak adrenals lead to lowered immune health. You can probably think of at least one person you know under constant stress who is also chronically sick. Adrenal fatigue can also make you more prone to allergies, inflammation, weight gain, and other health challenges.

What else taxes the adrenals aside from emotional stress? Physical stressors to the body such as sugar and caffeine… the very things many of us are prone to reach for when we are already feeling emotionally stressed! One of the many functions of the adrenal glands is related to regulating your blood sugar! Especially during times of stress it is best for us to avoid sugar.

For Serious Adrenal Fatigue

If you are seriously concerned about the health of your adrenal glands, you can request to have them tested via labwork. Good doctors that specialize in integrative medicine (docs who are up on the current tests and various modalities available in addition to conventional medicine) can easily hook you up with a saliva test and/or bloodwork to test your adrenal function looking at all the hormone levels your adrenals are supposed to secrete! It is best to use a test that requires samples at various times of the day (usually a take home kit then mailed to lab or returned to doc) because hormone levels are meant to fluctuate and have different parameters that should be evaluated at different times of the day.

Great Supplement for General Support

Bliss anti-stress formula is a highly recommended herbal supplement for daily nutritional support of your adrenals, or even just to use on particularly stressful days/weeks as needed. The natural ingredients are a unique blend of adaptogenic herbs- meaning they help your body (adrenal glands) adapt to stress better. If you adrenals are working too hard, they may need to chill out. If they are weak, they may need a boost. That’s why adaptogenic herbs are great in this manner. You can read up on the ingredients, benefits, research FAQ, etc on Bliss by clicking HERE. If you have questions regarding taking Bliss when on medications i.e. for anxiety or depression, you can print out the info from that link to bring it to your physician.

What else can you supplement with to support your body in coping with emotional stress? Try a quality highly absorbable B Complex. B vitamins are also essential for helping your body cope with the effects of stress. If you are a recovering alcoholic or addict, you should seriously consider supplementing with B Complex anyway (Read more here). Giving your physical health extra nutritional support during stress can aid you in the difficult emotional challenge of stress, particularly in times of grief but also in daily life.

Free Giveaway! New Memoir, Addict at 10

2010-04-25T01:24:00.007-04:00

Win a free copy of Derek Steele's new memoir, Addict at 10. (You can watch book trailer in previous post). HealthInRecovery will award a free hardcopy of Addict at 10 to the subscriber who refers the most friends to HealthInRecovery.com.
To enter the contest:
1. Visit HealthInRecovery.com and subscribe to receive the free newsletter.
2. Ask your friends to do the same, and instruct them to put your name when asked "How did you hear about us" on the newsletter sign up.

The more friends you successfully refer, the more chances you have to WIN. Act now... 3 winners will be contacted this Friday to receive their free copy of Addict at 10.

Derek Steele - An Addiction Success Story

2010-04-18T13:41:00.000-04:00

Derek Steele was addicted to alcohol and drugs by age 10, homeless at 20, and a sober multimillionaire by age 35. Pretty awesome success story, right? An example of how spiritual health in recovery also influences financial health in recovery! Check out the book trailer:

HealthInRecovery will be offering a free giveaway of Derek Steele's new book, Addict at 10. Details to follow!

Drinking, Obesity, Liver Disease Risk

2010-03-15T15:45:00.001-04:00

Two new studies in the British Medical Journal report research that suggests even a small amount of daily drinking (as little as a third or half a drink a day!) plus obesity increases the risk of liver disease in men and women.

Drinking + Obesity = Double Trouble for your Liver

So you’ve put down the drink. Maybe it’s been a matter of days, or years. Either way, that is awesome. Just by stopping the daily or binge drinking episodes, you have already decreased your risk for liver disease. Let’s take it a step further. Now that you are sober, have you ever given your liver some support, via healthy dietary changes and/or nutritional supplementation? If not, you can read more about how to be proactive in this way at our older article- click here.

Having removed the first half of the equation, let’s look at the other factor: obesity. The American Obesity Association utilizes Body Mass Index (BMI) to evaluate your degree of risk based on excess weight. Here are the risk parameters:

BMI > 25 defines overweight and marks the point where the risk of disease increases from excess weight.

BMI > 30 defines obesity and marks the point where the risk of death increases from excess weight.

Waist circumference of > 40 inches in men and > 35 inches in women increases disease risk.

You can quickly have your BMI calculated by clicking here.

If you are ready to improve your body composition to lose fat and preserve lean muscle, a lifestyle change is what you need… not a diet! Diets don’t really work, in fact they contribute to the obesity problem overall. Start by educating yourself on the correct healthy way to lose weight. Check out this highly recommended DVD set to learn the essentials. If you would like to contact a weight loss/lifestyle coach, email myweightcoach@yahoo.com. Come back for future blogs with more information on liver disease, obesity, weight management, and other health issues pertaining to recovering alcoholics and addicts.

Best Natural Methods to Quit Smoking in Recovery

2010-02-10T22:41:00.003-05:00

Looking for the best natural methods to quit smoking in recovery? When trying to kick nicotine and the other 4,000 chemicals in cigarettes, chances are you probably don’t want to use a method that continues to add chemicals to your body. Recovering alcoholics and addicts especially are less likely to want to use drugs to try to kick another drug habit. Most have tried to quit smoking in the past, and typically 2 or 3 unsuccessful attempts precede the final victory. Maybe the conventional methods have failed you in the past (i.e. nicotine gum, patches or meds), or perhaps you just prefer to go the natural route anyhow. Many smokers look to methods from natural medicine when ready to really quit for good.

Secrets to Success in Quitting Smoking: Natural Therapies

Physically… Acupuncture is a commonly recommended natural modality for smoking cessation support. Certified acupuncturists can administer a specific protocol of treatments on certain points of the body, geared to minimize the cravings during withdrawal. Typically the practitioner will suggest one or two sessions a week during this stressful period. You can search for an acupuncturist near you.

Mentally… Chances are you have tried to quit smoking in the past, so doubt and negative thinking may sabotage your efforts this time around. You can give yourself the mental edge with some hypnotherapy. You can of course seek out a certified hypnotherapist, or for a more affordable option try downloading an audio program to listen to daily and every night before you go to sleep. Hypnotherapists have created guided meditations and recorded hypnotherapy for smoking cessation which you can even download as an MP3 for instant gratification. Program your brain with positive thoughts to set yourself up for success and replace the negative obsessive thinking. Click here to check out this great recommended program by an acclaimed hypnotherapist.

Spiritually… Don’t forget you can apply the 12 Steps to nicotine addiction as well! If you are not sure how, visit http://www.nicotine-anonymous.org/

Secrets to Success in Quitting Smoking: Natural Supplements

What do people report as the main reasons behind their fear of quitting smoking in recovery? They typically relate it to their perception that cigarettes reduce "negative affect," (referring to depression, anxiety or irritability), and that these underlying conditions may trigger a relapse, in the absence of the perceived calming effect of cigarettes. So the real issue seems to be what sobriety is all about anyhow- learning to cope with emotional stressors with healthy tools rather than picking up any drug, including a cigarette. But the stress of quitting smoking itself on top of the other potential daily stressors does indeed have physical and emotional ramifications. Natural supplements offer a safe helpful solution, especially for those who prefer not to add pharmaceuticals to their sober regimen.

Physical withdrawal causes stress in the body, and obviously the normal daily stressors that trigger the urge to pick up a cigarette may feel exacerbated during withdrawal. Stress affects the adrenal glands (our fight and flight guys!). Most recovering alcoholics have beaten up their adrenal glands pretty well over the course of their drinking days- and even with stress that continues into sobriety. Smoking hasn’t helped the adrenals either! The best herbal support to recommend given all these factors is one which supports the adrenal glands and your body’s ability to cope with stress.

Check out Bliss anti-stress formula, which contains a great blend of adaptogenic herbs- they help your body adapt to stress naturally, help stabilize your mood and decrease feelings of anxiety. That’s key especially during this critical period while trying to kick the nicotine habit, when stress seems to be your greatest enemy mentally, and physically. Click here to read about the benefits, ingredients and science behind Bliss to see if it is right for you (you can print out the info there if you want to check with your doctor first).

The other supplement to consider for increasing your chances for success in quitting smoking is L-trytophan, an essential amino acid which is the precursor to serotonin production. Serotonin is the “feel good” neurotransmitter. According to WebMD, taking L-tryptophan seems to improve the effectiveness of conventional smoking cessation treatment. L-tryptophan naturally improves mood, and supports healthy sleep, both of which are particularly important when trying to quit smoking. And another researched benefit is that L-tryptophan can “help promote healthy reactions in daily and stressful situations”!

The body cannot produce this essential amino acid so it must be obtained through diet and supplementation. It is best utilized in an isotonic-capable form which also contains niacin and B6 to assure its proper absorption. Click here to learn more about or order the best L-tryptophan supplement available.

Secrets to Success in Quitting Smoking: Eating Correctly

The final natural method that you may not be aware of is a certain eating plan to support your efforts. Another common deterrent to attempting to quit smoking is the feared weight gain. It is true that people sometimes gain 5 or even 10 lbs when they quit. However if you are armed with the correct knowledge to eat the right way, this can be avoided. The best way to avoid gaining weight is to eat a low-glycemic meal or snack every few hours. This will not only naturally help keep you from storing excess fat, it will also help curb cravings and balance your blood sugar levels- which were negatively affected by smoking. Nicotine affects blood sugar, so it affects your metabolism. To help restore a healthy metabolism, learn to use a low glycemic plan to balance your blood sugar. This is the healthiest way to eat in general anyway! Get this great quick guide to the Glycemic Index by Dr Shari Lieberman. That will complete your comprehensive plan to finally quit smoking, using the best natural methods to give you the healthy edge to ensure your long term success.

Quitting Smoking In Recovery

2010-02-10T13:36:00.007-05:00

Rates of smoking are much higher in alcoholics in recovery than in the general population.

Recovering alcoholics who smoke may think they already quit their worst habit and justify their continued cigarette smoking and nicotine addiction. Many folks in recovery fear trying to quit smoking may put their sobriety at risk, and rationalize that its safer to continue smoking. However, the most common cause of death in long-term recovering alcoholics is related to the health consequences of cigarette smoking! As for sobriety, perhaps they are truly hanging on to their “drug of choice”.

Old timers talk about the days of AA when newcomers cleaned ashtrays because everyone was permitted to smoke inside meetings. Despite the fact that it’s rare today to find a smoky meeting anymore, there are still plenty of active smokers to walk past on your way inside. Since the beginning, AA’s focus has been solely on alcohol, hence NA forming specifically for narcotics addiction… and there still seems to be a general tolerance for the continued use of nicotine by these recovering alcoholics and addicts alike.

In the past and sometimes still today, newcomers have been encouraged to not worry about quitting smoking until they get a significant amount of sober time. There is even a tale in the Big Book about a man in early sobriety who relapsed after his wife “nagged” him to quit cigarette smoking! This was likely further fuel for justifying continued nicotine use in sobriety. (Note: it was his “fit of anger” reaction to her nagging, not an attempt at quitting smoking, that led to his relapse.)

Today, many clinicians report that quitting nicotine during initial treatment of alcoholism could actually increase chances of staying sober. Think about it- the typical triggers of relapse are various emotional stressors that lead to the desire to numb feelings or “check out”. In our active addiction, the drug of choice is used to quell stressful unwanted feelings (i.e. anxiety, depression, anger, grief, etc). The sooner one develops tools for managing these stressors without the use of drugs (including nicotine!) the better. Also, if given the chance wouldn’t it make sense to withdraw from everything at once and get it all over with from the start? But unless directed to do so in an inpatient treatment facility, most reading this will not have that chance.

Here’s a thought for the day: If you are still reaching for that nicotine on a stressful day, are you truly clean and sober? Technically, at least, you are not drug-free. Regardless of your position on this controversy, having put down the alcohol and narcotics addiction… with a clear head today, don’t you now want to be as healthy as possible? For yourself, and for your loved ones? Once sober, we come to a point where we realize we are no longer on a destructive course to an early grave- simply by no longer engaging in the dangers of active alcoholism/addiction. So it makes sense to want to take better care of our bodies since they are going to be around longer than perhaps previously anticipated, and a healthier lifestyle dictates a better quality of life as we continue to age. Quitting smoking is a major lifestyle factor that we do have control over.

Recovering alcoholics and addicts who smoke are more likely to get heart disease, lung disease and cancers of the head, mouth and throat. They are also at risk for an earlier death than those in the general population. It is hard to be happy, joyous and free when battling serious physical maladies. We can take actions today to help ensure happier healthier days and years ahead. Quitting smoking in recovery is possible and tips for doing so naturally will be addressed in the next blog!

Chemicals in Cigarettes

2009-11-22T19:16:00.001-05:00

Ever wonder what chemicals are in cigarettes you are smoking? There are around 4,000 chemicals found in tobacco smoke, including many poisons and at least 50 of which are carcinogens (known to cause cancer). Did you know that along with tobacco, you are also smoking chemicals used in rocket fuel, paint, nail polish remover, insecticide, lighter fluid, batteries, embalming fluid, rat poison, car exhaust fumes, and toilet cleaner? The well-known poison called Nicotine is one of the most addictive substances known to man. Many people in recovery from alcoholism and drug addiction continue to battle with nicotine addiction, consuming these toxic chemicals well into their sobriety.

Check other articles on this topic such as Quitting Smoking in Recovery and Best Natural Ways to Quit Smoking, which include research for those interested in kicking the nicotine naturally and getting off all those other poisonous chemicals in cigarettes!

Liver Health and Nutrition

2009-10-10T21:38:00.001-04:00

Alcohol use affects the health of your liver, as everyone knows. Both quantity and frequency of alcohol use can have a serious impact on your health, especially the liver - a vital organ. If you are a recovering alcoholic, perhaps you have wondered how your drinking days have affected your liver. Whether you were a weekend warrior binge drinker or a daily drinker, your liver had to process your excessive alcohol intake.

Binge Drinking vs. Daily Drinking Effects on Liver

Obviously, binge drinking is harmful to your liver- in addition to other areas of your body. Researchers have also investigated the impact of daily drinking on liver health. A recent study found that long-term daily drinking, rather than weekly binge drinking, is by far the biggest risk factor in serious liver disease. Generally, patients with alcoholic cirrhosis have been drinking heavily for 10 to 20 years.

Alcoholic liver disease is one of the most serious medical consequences of chronic alcohol use. Chronic alcohol abuse can cause fatty liver, cirrhosis and alcoholic hepatitis. Alcohol is a leading cause of liver cancer in the western world. Among heavy drinkers, up to 100% show evidence of fatty liver, an estimated 10-35% develop alcoholic hepatitis, and 10-20% develop cirrhosis.

For those who have been fortunate enough to escape liver disease, chances are you still did some damage during your active alcoholism/addiction.

Normal Liver Function

First, consider the fact that normal liver function is essential to life. It filters blood, removes and destroys toxic substances; helps digest and absorb fats; and it is involved in many of the metabolic systems of the body. The liver stores vitamins; synthesizes cholesterol; metabolizes or stores sugars; processes fats; and assembles amino acids into various proteins, some for use within the liver and some for export. The liver controls blood fluidity and regulates blood-clotting mechanisms. It also converts the products of protein metabolism into urea for excretion by the kidneys.

How Exactly Does Alcohol Damage the Liver

There are many mechanisms by which alcohol injures the liver. The most advanced form of alcoholic liver injury is alcoholic cirrhosis. Before the 1970's, the cause of alcoholic cirrhosis was believed to be nutritional deficiencies from heavy drinking. Overwhelming evidence subsequently proved that alcohol itself is toxic to the liver. It is now believed that nutritional effects and direct alcohol toxicity interact in such complex ways that the influence of the two cannot be separated. Other Factors include: genetics, free radicals & acetaldehyde, liver metabolism, gender (women may be more susceptible), and environmental factors (i.e. medications, exposure to pollution).

Other Ways we Damage the Liver

In addition to alcohol use, you may have also used other recreational drugs; perhaps you are currently taking over-the-counter or prescription medication, or have been on medications in the past; currently or previously engaged in unhealthy eating habits, or have been obese. All of these factors further tax the liver and contribute to your need for a liver cleanse and nutritional supplementation.

Vitamin Deficiencies from Liver Damage

Once liver function is compromised, your body's ability to use vitamins is significantly reduced. The liver is no longer able to process, store or utilize many of the water-soluble vitamins such as thiamin, B6 and folate, and your body is no longer able to use fat-soluble vitamins A, D and E.

Remember also that your liver is also crucial in the transportation of minerals throughout your body. If it is damaged, the minerals can't get out of the liver. This can result in mineral deficiency throughout your body, as well as a potentially toxic buildup of minerals in the liver.

Help Your Liver Recover

Recovering alcoholics & addicts, you have already detoxed off of alcohol & drugs. Whether it was days or years ago, you should absolutely give your liver its own detoxification cleanse! Use this simple 7-day system to cleanse your liver. This particular system not only cleanses and detoxifies the liver but also cleanses the digestive system and colon at the same time. It is recommended to cleanse first, then follow up with a liver support protocol that will be better absorbed and utilized due to cleansing first.

For a superior daily multivitamin/mineral formula that is easily absorbed, click here. *Note: choose the without iron version unless you know you are anemic.

For ongoing support of normal liver detoxification activity and overall liver health, two great supplements are Curcumin and Hepatocleanse. Curcumin has multiple health benefits in addition to liver support, including promoting neurological health, cognitive health, and a strong immune system to name a few. Hepatocleanse contains milk thistle and other safe natural herbs that help to detoxify the liver and blood, supports a healthy liver and gallbladder, and helps excrete the toxins that accumulate over time. Use the links provided to read more about the research and benefits of the best supplements that support liver health and may be especially beneficial for active and recovering alcoholics.

You can also lower your chance for liver disease with healthy eating habits. For liver health and overall health, eat foods that are high in fiber and low glycemic. To get a complete education for life on how to incorporate the healthiest eating plan, check out this incredible DVD set. With these simple yet advanced strategies, you can take charge of your liver health and nutrition to continue to truly recover in BODY, as well as mind and spirit.

Omega-3 Depression Help

2009-10-09T01:38:00.004-04:00

Can Omega-3 help depression? New research on the Mediterranean diet provides further evidence that Omega-3 can indeed help fight depression.

Oct 8, 2009 the New York Times reported:

Eating a Mediterranean-style diet — packed with fruits, vegetables, legumes, nuts, olive oil and fish — is good for your heart, many studies have found. Now scientists are suggesting the diet may be good for your mental health, too. A study of over 10,000 Spaniards followed for almost four and half years on average found that those who reported eating a healthy Mediterranean diet at the beginning of the study were about half as likely to develop depression.

This is not surprising news considering that the Mediterranean-style diet is low in Omega 6 fatty acids (pro-inflammatory) and higher in Omega-3 fatty acids (anti-inflammatory). Rapidly growing research points to effectiveness of Omega-3 fish oils in the treatment of depression. Just visit pubmed.com and search “omega 3 depression” to reveal hundreds of clinical studies detailing the effectiveness of Omega 3 fatty acids in the treatment of depression.

The Mediterranean-style diet also tends to be low glycemic.

Low glycemic foods do not spike blood sugar and insulin and thus help you stay lean, and provide steady energy and brain focus, and prevent mood swings. Recovering alcoholics and addicts can benefit from a low-glycemic eating plan (we strongly recommend the Transitions Lifestyle System).

The Mediterranean-style diet is also higher in antioxidants

Antioxidants are also plentiful in Mediterranean-style diet via the fruits, vegetables, and of course red wine… Never fear, recovering alcoholics can get far more benefit anyway in a power packed supplement called Resveratrol which has just the concentrated antioxidants without the alcohol!

Omega-3 Supplementation

For those of you who do not eat lots of fish daily, or want to be sure you are getting a beneficial amount of Omega-3, you can supplement with Omega-3 fish oils. Beware the majority of inferior omegas on the market (you get what you pay for), which tend to contain lower amounts of fish oil in each, and which may contain mercury, lead, PCB and other harmful metals. The highest grade omega 3 you can purchase online can be found here. Enjoy the multitude of benefits from Omega-3 supplementation including help with depression!

Best Liver Supplements for Recovering Alcoholics

2009-09-17T22:20:00.001-04:00

What are the best supplements to support liver health for alcoholics in recovery? It is well known that alcohol is toxic to the liver, and normal liver function is essential to life! Whether you have been a weekend binge drinker or a daily drinker, your liver has been affected by excessive alcohol consumption. In addition to drinking, many alcoholics have also used recreational drugs, and have been or currently take medications which also stress the liver and further contribute to the potential need for nutritional cleanse and supplementation to support liver detoxification and health.

Click here to read about a recommended 7-day cleanse that is extremely easy to follow and gentle (it should not disturb your normal daily activities!). This particular system not only cleanses and detoxifies the liver but also cleanses the digestive system and colon at the same time. It is recommended to cleanse first, then follow up with a liver support protocol that will be better absorbed and utilized due to cleansing first.

For ongoing support of normal liver detoxification activity and overall liver health, two great supplements are Curcumin and Hepatocleanse. Curcumin has multiple health benefits in addition to liver support, including promoting neurological health, cognitive health, and a strong immune system to name a few. Hepatocleanse contains milk thistle and other safe natural herbs that help to detoxify the liver and blood, supports a healthy liver and gallbladder, and helps excrete the toxins that accumulate over time. Use the links provided to read more about the research and benefits of the best supplements that support liver health and may be especially beneficial for active and recovering alcoholics.

Probiotics for Alcoholics

2009-08-19T16:19:00.016-04:00

Recent research suggests supplementing with probiotics may restore immune function of white blood cells, improve liver function, and restore gut health, in alcoholics.

Researchers at University College London gave patients with alcoholic cirrhosis probiotic supplements and reported that neutrophil (white blood cell) function was restored after four weeks. (source: Journal of Hepatology, 2008)

The study adds to the existing body of science by reporting that the 'friendly' bacteria from probiotic supplementation may boost immune function in alcoholics.

Furthermore, a study in 2009 by researchers from Russia and the U.S. confirmed that probiotic supplements improved gut health and liver health in alcoholics. (Source: Alcohol Volume 42, Issue 8, Pages 675-682)

Probiotics may be defined as “live microorganisms which when administered in adequate amounts confer a health benefit.” These bacteria act as balancing agents for non-friendly, pathogenic, gut-bacteria such as Candida or E. coli. When there is insufficient good bacteria, a number of bacteria-related health problems can ensue such as digestive upset, headaches, sluggishness, irritability, cadidiasis (overgrowth of the bacteria Candida albicans), and anxiety.

Perhaps the strongest of our probiotic fighters is Lactobacillus acidophilus, which studies show creates a natural form of antibiotics in the body. This probiotic increases our ability to produce antimicrobial action against the pathogens in the food we eat, the air we breathe, and other environmental toxins we encounter. Stress, unhealthy lifestyles, and most importantly - unhealthy acidic diets - destroy our natural amounts of probiotics. With all this in mind, certainly alcoholics in recovery who desire to address the effects of their previous (and perhaps still current in certain regards) lifestyle, often choose to include probiotics in their supplement regimen.

There is no question that candidiasis sufferers require supplemental use of probiotics to replenish beneficial GI bacteria and rebuild the immune system. Even if you don’t have candidiasis, environmental and food toxins, coupled with high-stress, are good indicators of the widespread need for probiotics.

Alcoholism compromises the immune system and can cause Candida yeast overgrowth. Depression, common in alcoholics, often results from the central nervous system toxins generated by Candida-Related-Complex. (Sources: 1. Larson, J. M., & Parker, R. (1987). Alcoholism treatment with biochemical restoration as a major component. International Journal of Biosocial Research, 9 (1), 92-106. 2. Trowbridge, J. & Walker, M. (1986). The yeast syndrome. New York: Bantam Books.)

Another connection between alcohol and candidiasis has been found in a study of 213 alcoholics at a recovery center in Minneapolis. Results indicated that candidiasis is a common complication of alcoholism due to the combination of high sugar content in alcohol and the inability of alcoholics to assimilate nutrients.

Many symptoms common in alcoholics overlap with symptoms observed with candida overgrowth- such as insomnia, depression, loss of libido, headaches, sinusitis/post-nasal drip, digestion and intestinal issues. Alcohol increases levels of sugar in the body, but other common habits of alcoholics can also contribute to candida problems... If an alcoholic is also a smoker, he/she is at risk for respiratory infections which are treated with antibiotics… antibiotics cause candida overgrowth! Recovering alcoholics who enjoy coffee and cookies at AA meetings are also increasing their potential for candidiosis.

The following health benefits are associated with the intake of daily doses of probiotics based on research to date:

* Enhanced immune system response

* Reduces negative effects of taking many types of antibiotics

* Aids in preventing and treating colon inflammation following surgery

* Helps to prevent eczema in youth

* Increased ability to digest food

* Therapeutic for viral respiratory tract infections by enhancing the overall immune system

* Reduces lactose intolerance

* Reduces incidence of yeast infection, vaginitis and candidiasis

* Increases ability to assimilate the nutrients from food

* Alleviates many common digestive disorders such as constipation, diarrhea and IBS

* Acts as a treatment for halitosis (bad breath)

* Increases ability to synthesize vitamin B

* Increases ability to absorb calcium

* Promotes anti-tumor and anti-cancer activity in the body

* May help in prevention of colon cancer

* May lower cholesterol

* May lower blood pressure

* Improves immune function and helps prevent infections

* Helps in treating Helicobacter pylori

* Reduces inflammation

* Improves mineral absorption

* Prevents harmful bacterial growth under stress

In summary, while an increasing number of people in general are choosing to supplement with probiotics for the broad range of proven health benefits, recovering alcoholics should certainly consider use of probiotic supplements for the specific needs associated with their population as well. The road to health is paved with good intestines!

*Not all probiotic supplements are created equal. Obviously, probiotics in an isotonic-capable form will be best absorbed and utilized. Learn more here about a recommended: complete Digestive Enzymes with Probiotics in isotonic-capable form.

Are you an alcoholic boils down to 2 questions

2009-07-03T10:39:00.000-04:00

I have never been a huge fan of the 20 question type surveys to determine “Are you an alcoholic?” Alcoholism is a disease that operates on denial, so subjective questions can be tricky… To the rational individual, most of these questions seem objective and pretty black and white. But to the active alcoholic, still in denial to any degree, a “No” answer can be easily justified. Especially since many of the questions pertain to consequences of drinking… therefore can be “YETS” (they just haven’t happened to the active alcoholic YET). People questioning their drinking habits may look at them and instead use the survey itself to fuel the denial- i.e.” I haven’t lost a job, it’s not affecting my family, I don’t drink daily or in the morning… I guess I’m not that bad afterall!”

Therefore I like to boil it down instead to 2 basic questions or categories of questions… related to: 1, do you have the obsession? And 2, do you have the compulsion? In the big book Alcoholics Anonymous, in The Doctor’s Opinion, Dr. Silkworth explains that the obsession and compulsion are what define the disease of alcoholism.

Whether someone has the obsession and compulsion can be asked in a number of ways, but perhaps the simplest way could be…

For the obsession, how about asking: Do you ever end up drinking when you plan not to (i.e. you think “I’m not going to drink tonight”, but then you end up having a drink somehow). Or: Do you look ahead with anticipation or excitement to the next time you can have a drink (whether it is happy hour, or not until Friday or Saturday night, or that big reunion coming up)?

For the compulsion, simply: do you ever end up drinking more than you planned to (i.e. thinking “I’m only going to have 1 or 2 tonight”, and you end up having several or even blacking out? Or: are you typically the one who closes out the bar or last to leave the party?).

Even if you do NOT: drink alone, drink daily, have lost your job, lost your significant other or family, have blacked out, been arrested, driven drunk, or been hospitalized as a result of your drinking… You may still in fact be an alcoholic!!! Check out an AA meeting, buy the “big book” Alcoholics Anonymous, or contact a drug/alcohol counselor or simply get in touch with a recovering alcoholic … and find out if you have an obsession and compulsion related to alcohol/drugs. Once you understand those two components, you can quickly diagnose yourself. If you are indeed an alcoholic, the great news is- recovery is possible! “There is a solution”.

Cocaine found in Red Bull !!!

2009-05-26T22:21:00.000-04:00

(From AP) May 25, 2009: BERLIN — "Six German states have told retailers to stop selling Red Bull Cola energy drinks after a test found a trace amount of cocaine. The bans started Friday after a sample test conducted by authorities found 0.4 micrograms per liter in the drink.”

...Ok, so it was only trace amounts (if you are ok with that), but while we’re on the topic, guess what else is in Red Bull...

Red Bull contains 80.0 milligrams of caffeine which is twice as much as in a can of Coke (40 mg/330 ml can). And 5-6 teaspoons of sugar. A sugar-free Red Bull is sweetened with aspartame (a known neurotoxin, scary stuff- yeah it’s in your Diet Coke too. Beware!).

DID YOU KNOW....

--According to the latest research (circa 2008), the popular energy drink Red Bull can increase the risk of heart damage. The participants of the study were university students aged between 20 and 24. Researchers found that just one sugar free can of Red Bull raised the level of stickiness of the blood and could lead to the formation of blood clots.

--According to Dr. Scott Willoughby, of the Cardiovascular Research Center at the Royal Adelaide Hospital and Adelaide University, the results of the study were alarming. "After one can it seemed to turn the young individual into one with more of the type of profile you would expect to see with someone with cardiovascular disease. People who already have existing cardiovascular disease may want to talk to their physician before they drink Red Bull in future," the scientist said.
--The 30 students who passed the test were shocked by the results. Previously some of them drank up to 8 cans per night in order to stay awake to study. Most of these students are now refusing to drink Red Bull, saying they will never consume it again.

Yet again, better off sticking with your good ol' B Vitamins for energy. Or there is a healthy alternative energy drink that is caffeine-free called Awake. "Awake energy drink mix is a blend of amino acids, vitamins, minerals and neurotransmitter precursors that will provide long-lasting energy and mental focus to consumers desiring an energy drink without the high caffeine, high sugar and nervous jitters associated with most other competing products." In contrast to the cardiovascular risk associated with Red Bull, one of the benefits listed for Awake is that it offers cardiovascular support.

ps- remember "H.A.L.T." -- if you are Tired, get some rest! ...and don't forget to take your vitamins (Bill W. did!).

Bill Wilson supports B Vitamins for Alcoholism Treatment

2009-05-24T16:58:00.000-04:00

Many people are not aware that AA founder, Bill Wilson, was trying to educate doctors on the importance of vitamin supplementation in the treatment of alcoholism. Check out Dr. Abram Hoffer sharing about his experience with Bill W. and Bill's passion for research on Niacin (vitamin B3) for alcoholics and his desire to educate doctors on this:

For those in search of a high quality complete B Complex, be aware that not all supplements are created equally! The best supplements are those that are high quality and best absorbed. Good nutrition is not what you eat, but what you absorb. HealthInRecovery recommends the following B Complex:

Click here to read more about the benefits, science and uniqueness of this B Complex.

Natural Swine Flu Prevention Tips

2009-05-24T13:29:00.000-04:00

With swine flu fear all over the media, more than ever people are looking for natural ways to prevent getting the flu. The best way to prevent swine flu or any other flu is to boost your immune system. First, don't let the news set you in to a panic...

Stress will only weaken your immune function. And for those who understand and believe in the Law of Attraction, it goes without saying that you should not be obsessively worrying about getting sick! You may be setting yourself up for self-fulfilling prophecy in that respect. Use whatever stress reduction techniques you desire, and get plenty of rest to also optimize your immune function.The best quick nutritional tips for preventing the flu include taking supplements to boost your immune system so that it can ward off any potential viral attacks. There are so many different vitamins and herbs touted to aid in this battle, so I will just outline the possible top three here…

1. Most people know that Vitamin C boosts immune function. It is also considered an antiviral by blocking the enzyme neuraminidase which viruses need to reproduce. There are anecdotal stories of people taking large amounts of Vitamin C and surviving the Spanish Flu. Research shows that Vitamin C may reduce the production of cytokines TNF-a and IL-6. A study on 470 people involved giving the test group 1000 mg hourly for 6 hours and then 1000 mg 3 times daily after reporting flu symptoms. Symptoms decreased by 85% with Vitamin C use. (Pubmed PMID 10543583, 634178, 16169205, 12876306). Click here to read more about the best form of Vitamin C.

2. Resveratrol, probably most recognized as a “miracle anti-aging supplement” since Barbara Walters 20/20 special last year, is also a proven antiviral supplement. Found naturally in red wine, in addition to inhibiting neuraminidase, studies have revealed that resveratrol inhibits the growth of viruses such as herpes and influenza. Resveratrol supplements are relatively inexpensive, are more stable than wine, with no toxic effects (Pubmed PMID 1583880, 12817628, 15985724). Click here to read more about the best form of resveratrol.

3. Many doctors are finally catching up with the research on Vitamin D and starting to test their patients’ vitamin D levels. In the popular newsletter by Dr. Mercola, a recent article included vitamin D as a crucial component in the flu battle. “Optimizing your vitamin D levels is one of the absolute best strategies for avoiding infections of ALL kinds, and vitamin D deficiency is likely the TRUE culprit behind the seasonality of the flu -- not the flu virus itself. This [supplementing with Vitamin D] is probably the single most important and least expensive action you can take.” Click here to read more about the best form of vitamin D available.

Most importantly, please note that not all supplements are created equally. The best supplements are those that are high quality and best absorbed. Good nutrition is not what you eat, but what you absorb. Take advantage of the links above to read more about the most absorbable potent forms of these supplements taken orally (i.e. you can only get better absorption intravenously!).