Natural Ways to Cure Addiction

In a fascinating article by Mark Joslin, in the October 2011 issue of Life Extension, a look at natural ways to cure addiction was explored. In the article, the folks at Life Extension were provided an opportunity to speak at length with Dr. Marvin Sponaugle. A anesthesiologist also certified in addiction medicine. I found the article compelling to read because Dr. Sponaugle is of the opinion that addiction treatment isn't well managed by counseling and/or drug treatment and that natural interventions are more effective. I have always agreed with this theory and will enjoy telling you some of his explanations for having this perspective.

Biochemical Cravings-Not Pathological Behavior

Dr. Sponaugle explains to Life Extension that conventional medicine's history with treatment of addiction has been to teach those with addictions to talk themselves out of biochemical cravings brought on by brain chemistry imbalances that is sometimes inherited, controlling the flow of neurotransmission. Further contributing to this imbalance are changes that are acquired over time. I have instinctually felt this way about addiction for awhile. It was good to read about medical professionals that confirm this viewpoint.

Hormonal Imbalances

In Dr. Sponaugles clinic, he has found that middle aged women with addictions are also abundant in hormonal imbalance. I'm fascinated by this as middle aged woman myself, I can sense a difference in my own brain function. This isn't a surprise because estrogen, progesterone, and pregnenolone have potent effects on the brain. Even though it is common knowledge that these hormones change in mid-life, traditional treatments fail to recognize this and implement ways to better manage it. The article refers to these hormones as "neurosteroids that are powerful in modulating dopamine. As a result, when hormones are imbalanced so is electrical activity in the brain.

Natural Approach to Treatment

Dr. Sponaugle treatment program consists of first verifying patterns of brain chemistry that isn't normal by way of an extensive analysis of over 65 chemicals in the brain. These include hormones and enzymes as well as toxins, amino acids, and vitamin content.

After establishing the results of this analysis, Dr. Sponaugle then implements a treatment program he refers to as rapid and nutritional detox. This procedure involves an IV treatment that provides nutrients like amino acids, vitamins and minerals to rectify biochemical imbalances safely.

Dr. Sponaugle expresses grave concerns with regarding traditional methods for cold turkey withdrawal on people severly addicted to substances, and that this method is much safer for their well-being due to the fact the nutrients combat the imbalanced conditions of the brain. In this way, normal function can be immediately restored rather than patients succumbing to severe physical withdrawl.

Source: October 2011 issue of Life Extension