From
the LSI newsletter HEALTHY SOLUTIONS, Volume 1, Number 1 Biological changes associated with addiction are evident even before the individual becomes addicted. Certain genes have been identified that make some people more vulnerable. This genetic predisposition changes the physiology of the brain. Research has shown that both addicts and the children of addicts demonstrate decreased levels of certain neurotransmitters (dopamine and serotonin) and their receptors in specific areas of the brain. In addition, they lack the slow brainwave rhythms (Alpha and Theta) that are characteristic of states of contentment and well-being. Addictive behavior is an attempt by the individual to normalize brain function as addictive substances and behaviors enhance these slow brainwave frequencies and compensate for abnormal biochemical functioning. Initially, a sense of well-being results from addictive behavior. However, this compensation does not last. Increasing amounts of addictive substances or behaviors are required to continue to produce the biochemical compensation. In addition, the substances or behaviors often damage the brain and body. Ultimately, the effect is that the individual becomes dependent while producing only limited compensatory changes that do not successfully normalize brain functioning. Deteriorating brain biochemistry then results in increased craving, with everything in life becomeing secondary to the intense need to attempt to compensate for deficient brain functioning in the only way the individual knows--addictive behavior. Reversing Deterioration and Correcting Brain Abnormalities Repair of the damage caused by the addictive process clearly requires abstinence. But abstinence increases craving since the biochemical foundation of addiction remains unchanged. In contrast, the Wellness Addiction Treatment and Total Comprehensive Health (WATCH) program used at the Life Sciences Institute is designed to correct the fundamental biological basis upon which the addiction was built. Carefully selected vitamins, minerals and amino acids stimulate the brain to repair the damage and to make larger amounts of otherwise deficient neuro- transmitters.Brainwave training helps the individual to learn to produce at will the slower brainwave rhythms characteristic of feelings of well-being. Research
has shown that either the nutritional supplementation or brainwave
training alone lead to a normalization of brain biochemistry. Our
clinical observation suggests that together they operate synergistically.
The result is that brain functioning normalizes, craving is greatly
reduced or eliminated and addictive behavior is replaced by the
satisfactions of everyday life, including improved relationships
with family and friends. Known deficiencies in the biology of addiction
can now be corrected.
|
