Trois-Rivières, Canada 10/1/2009 11:28:26 PM
Recent research has linked proper nutrition and diet as possible solutions to help with teen drug addiction
Trois-Rivières, Canada. The importance of a healthy diet rich in vitamins and nutrients has always been important, but now research shows there could be a link between drug addiction and nutrient deficiencies. Per Carolyn Reuben, a Sacramento, California nutrition expert, the human body can react to certain vitamin and nutrient deficiencies in a manner that can ultimately lead to mood disorders and/or addiction. She and other nutritionists blame the lack of natural foods for animals such as cows, which decreases the Omega 3 fatty acids found in the animals, passing on the deficiency to humans as part of the problem.
Researchers believe they can determine which amino acids are missing from a persons diet based on the particular problem they are having, adding them back to the diet and decreasing the chances of addiction.
An example of this process would be that if a persons body is producing low levels of dopamine, the body’s ‘feel good’ hormone, the result could be that the person could engage in compulsive behavior, such as drug or alcohol abuse in order to find relief. Correcting the problem and raising the natural levels of dopamine could be as simple as adding particular amino acids and nutrients to the persons diet.
Almost 25 years ago, similar research done by CSU Stanislaus Professor Stephen Schoenthler, PhD, revealed a link with high sugar and low vitamin consumption levels being associated with violence. The research also revealed that when given vitamin and mineral supplements, the violence rates amongst those tested dropped as much as 43%, which led researchers to begin exploring the association between nutrition and addiction.
"Balanced nutrition and proper intake of vitamins and minerals are key elements of the successful Narconon drug rehab program," said Nick Hayes, a representative of Narconon Trois-Rivières. "Drugs deplete vitamins and minerals within the addict's body and these should be replaced and maintained in order for him or her to successfully lead a drug-free life," added Hayes.
For more information on how to help a drug or alcohol addict you can call 1-877-782-7409 or visit this web page: http://addicthelp.org/addict-help/helping-a-drug-addict/
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