Addiction disrupts the body’s functions, including the body’s ability to produce chemicals such as dopamine, the “feel good” chemical. When this happens, many people who stop using experience withdrawal symptoms both physical and psychological; physical symptoms may include weakness, clammy skin, sweating, coldness, shaking, nausea and more, while psychological symptoms may include depression, hallucination, paranoia, severe anxiety, and more. Amino acids have been shown to give a person more stability while they are detoxing from substances, primarily by assisting the body in reproducing the neurotransmitters needed to feel relaxed and happy again. This, in turn, helps a person to curb the cravings associated with drug use.
If you engage in amino acid nutraceutical therapy (AANT), you will likely focus on 5 amino acids:
- L-Tryptophan – a necessary amino for serotonin, the brain’s natural antidepressant and regulator of sleep. Deficiency could result in anxiety, sleep disorders, compulsive thoughts or behaviors, irritability, panic, suicidal thoughts, and more.
- GABA – responsible for regulation of muscle tone and reducing stress by reducing neuronal excitability in the body. If you’re deficient in this, you may feel anxiety and emotional or physical tension, as well as being easily overwhelmed.
- DLPA D-Phenylalanine – increases the longevity of endorphins in your body which are responsible for pain relief and mood boost. Deficiency of this amino acid could result in crying spells and fragile emotions as well as sensitivity.
- L-Tyrosine – necessary for the development of norepinephrine (stress hormone and neural transmitter), dopamine (regulates emotional responses and reward/pleasure sensations), and epinephrine (adrenaline). Deficiency could lead to lack of focus, fatigue, lack of motivation, apathy, and more.
- L-Glutamine – responsible for leveling blood sugar to help a person maintain clarity and energy throughout their day. Deficiency in this could yield shakiness, irritability, weakness, and dizziness.
A study published in the Journal of Psychoactive Drugs assessed 129 participants in an addiction recovery treatment program at a 30-day, 6-month, 1-year, and 2-year follow-up after receiving AANT. The researchers found that 91% of participants were sober at six months, with 82% having had no relapse; Eighty-two percent were sober at a year after, with 78% having no relapse; and 91% of participants were sober two years post-treatment, with 70% having no relapse. More research is being conducted on this form of therapy, but so far, the results are showing many benefits. Speak with a representative today to learn more about how amino acids can benefit your recovery.
Avalon Malibu is a world-renowned, California state-licensed mental health and substance abuse recovery center. If you are ready to seek treatment to develop the tools you need to overcome life’s obstacles and be on the road towards happiness, health, and well-being, call us today at 888-958-7511 for a consultation. It’s never too late, and there are people here ready to help you.
