How to Use Holistic Medicine to Treat Addictions

Holistic medicine concentrates on treating the root of addiction problems. It digs into the underlying issues and focuses on the body, mind and spirit of each individual. Alternative treatments like acupuncture are leading options among holistic treatments for addictions. Holistic practitioners also believe that nutrition has an effect on addictions. Follow these steps to learn more.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Nutritionist
• Computer with Internet access
• Acupuncturist
• Nutritional supplements

Treat Addictions With Acupuncture

1. Commit to ending your addiction. Only you have the power to make a change.

2. Select an acupuncture center near you. Use AcuFinder.com to find an acupuncturist (see Resources below).

3. Ask the acupuncturist about the different addictions acupuncture treats. Acupuncture has been used to treat smoking, alcohol, cocaine and heroin addiction.

4. Use acupuncture to reduce your cravings for the substance you're addicted to.

5. Be aware that at times acupuncture is used along with herbal supplements. Your practitioner may put you on a regimen to further your progress and treatment.

6. Complete your treatment plan for optimum results.

Use Nutrition to Treat Addictions

7. Begin to heal your body through careful nutrition. There are studies suggesting that the roots of addictions lie in deficiencies in the brain caused by poor nutrition.

8. Educate yourself on the right choices of foods and supplements to treat your addiction by visiting the "Addiction Recovery Guide" Web site (see Resources below). Take nutritional supplements, vitamins and herbs to replenish the body.

9. Choose to work with a professional nutritionist who is trained in addiction cases. Having guidance can make a huge difference in whether or not you are able to stick to your recovery plan. Visit FindaNutritionist.com to search for a nutritionist near you (see Resources below).

10. Keep away from refined sugars and processed foods. There may be a link between the way these foods affect brain chemicals and addiction.

Tips & Warnings

• Compared to cost of conventional rehabilitation centers, acupuncture is moderately priced.
• Joining a support group is a great idea when combating addiction. Knowing that others around you know what you're going through is quite comforting.
• Combine your use of holistic medicine with the use of "conventional Western medicine" for best results.
• If you experience any severe reaction, like swelling, skin rashes after eating a new food or taking an herbal supplement, seek immediate medical attention. Also contact your doctor if you're suddenly having trouble breathing.
• Before you start any alternative medical technique, be aware that many have not been scientifically evaluated. If you decide to try holistitc medicine, keep your doctor informed about the technique you undertake.
• Consult MayoClinic.com to learn how educate yourself about alternative medicine claims (see Resources below). Learn how to assess those claims before you make your treatment decision.

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