Alcoholism is an addiction to or dependence on alcohol. Health problems caused by excessive drinking may include cancer, pancreatitis, heart problems, liver disorders, diabetes complications and digestive problems. Those with low levels of the neurotransmitters serotonin and dopamine in the brain may be more predisposed to addictions and cravings for alcohol than those with normal levels. Increasing amino acids through diet and supplements may prove beneficial as part of the treatment plan for alcoholics.
Vitamins and Minerals Precursors for Amino Acids
According to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, alcoholics are commonly low in vitamins A, C, D, E, K and B, calcium, zinc, magnesium and iron. Vitamins and minerals are required by the body to turn amino acids into brain neurotransmitters, so proper nutrition becomes especially important during the treatment period. Without proper nutrients, it is possible to be deficient in amino acids even with the presence of adequate sources of dietary protein. Supplementing with an amino acid protein powder can be beneficial since many brands already contain the additional vitamins and minerals.
Improving Digestion and Absorption of Amino Acids
Alcoholics are more likely to have impaired digestion, and processing of amino acids in the small intestine and liver. Alcohol may decrease enzymes secreted by the stomach, pancreas, small intestine and liver needed to break down nutrients into usable molecules. Alcohol may also damage the cells lining the stomach and intestines that absorb the nutrients that make it possible to transport amino acids into the blood stream. Dr. Enoch Gordes, NIAAA director, recommends a treatment plan that focuses on a cessation of consuming alcoholic beverages along with proper diet so that you can regain normal digestion and absorption of amino acids.
Amino Acids for Neurotransmitter Management
Alcoholics are commonly deficient in the amino acids tyrosine, tryptophan and glutamine. Amino acids are needed by the body to produce the mood-enhancing neurotransmitters serotonin and dopamine. Typtophan found in foods such as turkey, chicken, dairy and peanuts is used to make serotonin. Dopamine, derived from tyrosine is found in meat, poultry, dairy and legumes. Increasing consumption of these amino acids through high-protein dietary sources or supplementation may prove beneficial in improving mood, tolerance to stress and decreasing alcohol cravings.
Brain Fuel
Glutamine used in the body to produce the calming neurotransmitter gamma-amino butyric acid or GABA, which is a source of fuel for the brain. Glutamine stimulates glycogen to be released to help maintain normal blood sugar levels, and reduce blood-sugar-related cravings in alcoholics. According to a Pub Med study, supplementation with glutamine produced a 34 percent decrease in voluntary alcohol consumption. Good sources of glutamine are found in high-protein foods, including beef, chicken, fish, eggs, dairy and wheat germ.
Treatment Plan
A treatment plan for an individual with alcoholism should only be performed by a qualified physician or registered dietitian to ensure that supplements, vitamins and minerals are being consumed in proper amounts and that any potential drug interactions are avoided.
References
- Mayo Clinic: Alcoholism: Complications
- National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism; October 1993
- National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism: FAQs for the General Public
- "Psychopathology"; Serotonin and Alcohol: Interrelationships; G.D. Tollefson; 1989
- Psychology Today: Dopamine
- Pub Med: Voluntary Alcohol Consumption by Rats Following Administration of Glutamine
