Increasing the amount and frequency of drinking starts changing brain function. It becomes more and more difficult for the brain to function as it did before it was altered by excessive consumption. The longer you try to go without having a drink, the more your brain craves it so it can feel “normal.” There are ways to beat cycles of craving and stop for good. It's important to be patient with yourself and not give up if you slip up. With the right mindset and support system, you can achieve your goal of living a sober life. People who drink alcohol are at higher risk of calcium deficiency, since alcohol interferes with your body’s ability to properly absorb this vital nutrient.

• According to the Anxiety & Depression Association of America, about 20% of people who suffer with social anxiety disorders also suffer from alcohol dependence or abuse.
• It’s important to note that you may or may not be aware of these external triggers as reasons for your alcohol cravings.
• You drink water, flush the alcohol out of your system and you’re back to being sober.

Alcohol Cravings: 3 Supplements That May Help You Stop Drinking For Good

Magnesium also reduces the stimulus of dopamine synthesis, which governs the intensity of our cravings. Oil from Evening Primrose seeds is known for being highly effective in helping decrease the cravings for liquor. Sage has an earthy flavor that can bring depth to your non-alcoholic drinks.

• Some evidence suggests chromium may also help with mild mood imbalances, which can reduce the desire to self-medicate with alcohol.
• In one study, patients who took taurine supplements experienced fewer severe withdrawal symptoms, such as delirium and hallucinations.
• Although evidence is still limited, omega-3 fatty acids show promise as an excellent alcohol recovery supplement.
• These substances may work by helping reduce the amount of inflammation within your body.
• Acamprosate is prescribed to people after they’ve quit drinking alcohol to help them maintain abstinence.
• Find a brighter tomorrow by starting with our compassionate team of medical professionals and recovery specialists today.

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A therapist can work with you one-on-one to identify these issues and develop coping strategies for managing them in a healthy way. Deep breathing is another mindfulness technique that can help reduce stress and anxiety. When we're stressed or anxious, our breathing tends to become shallow and rapid, which can exacerbate these feelings.

Supplement 4: Description and Benefits

This amino acid occurs naturally in the body and many protein-rich foods, and is a building block for some of the brain chemicals that regulate anxiety and depression. This healing herb has been used for Twelve-step program generations to heal the mind and body. Many patients that are in alcohol recovery experience anxiety, depression and insomnia. St. John’s works as a mild sedative to relax your nervous system and help to keep you calm.

• Light therapy, or phototherapy, is the process of exposing yourself to a lot of light during the daytime.
• It may play a role in reducing alcohol cravings by supporting brain health and neurotransmitter production.
• For anyone in recovery from drinking problems, alcohol cravings are a significant concern.

Vitamin and Mineral Supplements

Left unaddressed, they can quickly derail your attempts to reach and maintain sobriety. During and after alcohol detox and rehab, a strong emphasis is placed on helping you cope with your cravings. Melatonin supplements can help reduce alcohol cravings by improving sleep quality and regulating mood, which can reduce stress-related triggers. Vitamin D is an essential vitamin that plays a role in immune function, bone health, and mood regulation.

Health

Caffeine and alcohol can interfere with your ability to fall asleep and stay asleep throughout the night. Try to avoid consuming these substances in the hours leading up to bedtime. If most of your social circle revolves around drinking, it may be helpful to seek out new friendships with individuals who share your interests but don't drink. This could involve joining a club or organization centered around a hobby or activity that you enjoy. Repeat this exercise several times until you feel more relaxed and centered.

N-Acetyl Cysteine (NAC) is a derivative of the amino acid L-cysteine. It’s well-known for its antioxidant properties and its role in supporting the body’s production of glutathione—a vital antioxidant that helps protect cells from oxidative stress. L-glutamine can help during alcohol withdrawal by improving symptoms like nausea, vomiting and diarrhea that can occur during the detox process. Experts think it might work by protecting the gut by preventing gut permeability from deteriorating. Although there is little data about the benefit of vitamin B1 on alcohol withdrawal cravings, supplementing with vitamin B1 is important to avoid complications from alcohol use.

These supplements are designed to address the underlying factors that contribute to alcohol cravings and provide the body with essential nutrients to promote overall well-being. Keeping a journal can be a helpful tool for those trying to quit drinking naturally. By writing down your thoughts and feelings, you can identify triggers and patterns in your behavior that may be contributing to your alcohol cravings. While herbal remedies can be helpful for reducing alcohol cravings, it's important to remember that they're not a substitute for professional medical advice or treatment. If you're struggling with addiction, it's important to seek professional help and develop a comprehensive treatment plan that addresses all aspects of your health and wellbeing.

Dandelion tea is an effective treatment for upset stomach and headaches that are often a part of the recovery process. This natural herb has been used for thousands of years to combat many health issues, including liver damage due to alcohol abuse. Kudzu is a powerful antioxidant that can encourage the growth of new liver cells. Many alcoholics give up during the detox process because of the severity of the symptoms.