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DESCRIPTION
Alcoholism is a progressive disease that wrecks havoc on the mind as well as the body. Not only does alcohol affect the abuser by poisoning the entire body, but family and friends are victims, as well. While there is no agreement on the cause of alcoholism, genetic factors seem to play a large role.
Clearly, it is more likely to develop in children of alcoholics, so, finding a genetic marker for the disease might help to prevent it in many cases. If you have a family history of alcoholism, you should realize you are prone to it and understand the many significant and often life-threatening effects of too-heavy drinking.
MoonDragon's ObGyn Information: Alcoholism Discussion, Nutrition & Treatment
Extra Tip - Spouses and children suffer greatly from the addiction of a partner or parent. Self-help groups, such as ALANON, provide support for family of alcoholics; the groups are listed in local telephone directories.
THE METABOLISM OF ALCOHOL
Unlike other substances, alcohol is absorbed through the stomach and small intestines, allowing it to reach the blood stream quickly. The effect of alcohol is almost immediate. The body relaxes and stress may seem to be reduces. Judgment, however is compromised. Additional drinks will impair speech and hinder your movements. It takes the body about two hours to burn an ounce of alcohol, and nothing you do can speed up the metabolizing process.
EFFECTS ON THE LIVER
Alcoholics are at risk for liver damage; if they become malnourished, they may develop cirrhosis; also, nerved damage from the alcohol abuse can hasten the deterioration of a person in a weakened state. However, a strong desire to quit, changes in diet and emotional therapy are often able to help turn an alcoholic's life around.
Alcohol is broken down in the liver, which also processes fat, glucose and hormones. Heavy drinking inhibits this organ's production of digestive enzymes, impairing the body's ability to absorb proteins, fats, minerals and other essential nutrients. The toxic effect of alcohol, therefore, causes an excessive amount of fat to accumulate in the liver.
Hepatitis can develop. Eventually cirrhosis of the liver, which prevents the organ's ability to filter out toxins and kills healthy cells, may threaten the alcoholic's life.
WHAT YOU CAN DO
Determine whether you have a drinking problem. If you realize that it is a problem, take steps to quit drinking - total abstinence is required to take control of your life and to regain your health. Find a counselor who specializes in alcohol addiction. Join a self-help group, such as Alcoholics Anonymous (AA), which provides support and courage, and talk to your partner or friends. Eat a nutrient-rich diet, avoid sugar and saturated fats and take vitamin and mineral supplements.
IS DRINKING A PROBLEM?
Ask yourself the following questions. If the answer to any is yes, you need to take an honest look at how alcohol is affecting your health and relationships with others.
- Do you drink daily?
- Do you have difficulty stopping after you start drinking?
- Do you react to pressure and stress by pouring yourself a drink?
- Has your family suggested you curtail or stop drinking altogether?
- Do you have hangovers or frequent blackouts after drinking?
- Is it important that drinking always be part of your social activities?
- Do you ever "sneak a drink" before going out for an evening?
- Do you frequently argue with family and friends while drinking?
- Do you avoid calculating how much money you spend on alcohol?
NATURAL HEALING TECHNIQUES & RECOMMENDATIONS
NUTRITION
Good nutrition is essential for those combating alcoholism. Even moderate consumption can rob the system of valuable vitamins and minerals. Anyone who drinks, or who may be recovering, needs to eat a healthful diet with lots of raw fruits and vegetables, whole grains and legumes. If possible, discuss your individual needs with a nutritionist. Vitamins B and C, Zinc and Magnesium should be taken to supplement the diet and to help repair a damaged liver.
HELP THE LIVER REGENERATE
The liver is the only organ that can regenerate itself if damaged. The amino acid Carnitine is known to help prevent buildup of fats. Lecithin helps the organ emulsify and process fats and Cysteine aids in detoxification.
HERBAL SUPPORT
Certain herbs strengthen the liver. Milk Thistle, Turmeric, Dandelion, and Burdock can help protect the liver from injury and repair existing damage. All these herbs help promote bile flow and also protect against degeneration and cirrhosis. St. John's Wort may also provide a calming influence on the nerves. Kudzu, available at health food stores, is reported to help decrease the cravings of alcohol.
MILK THISTLE TEA
Milk Thistle products that support liver function with herbs and important nutrients are available from health food stores. You can also make a tea at home by boiling 1 teaspoon of crushed milk thistle seeds in 1 cup of water. Steep for 20 minutes, then strain. Drink 1 cup of the tea 3 times a day for 6 weeks.
ALCOHOL RELATED LINKS
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HELPFUL PRODUCTS & FURTHER EDUCATION
Prescription for Nutritional Healing: The A-To-Z Guide To Supplements
-- by Phyllis A. Balch, James F. Balch - 2nd Edition
Prescription for Nutritional Healing: The A-To-Z Guide To Supplements
-- by Phyllis A. Balch, James F. Balch - 4th Edition
Prescription for Herbal Healing: The A-To-Z Reference To Common Disorders
-- by Phyllis A. Balch
The Complete Guide to Natural Healing
This is only a small sample of educational materials and products available through Amazon.com. Use the search box provided below to search for a particular item.
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