In 2006, there were 13,050 deaths in the United States from alcohol-related liver disease, and 22,073 other alcohol-related deaths, according to the Centers for Disease Control. Ten percent of adult Americans drink excessively, says Charles H. Halstead, M.D. of the University of California at Davis. Alcoholism is a serious disease that causes a wide range of social, physical and emotional problems. Overcoming alcoholism is difficult, but there are supplements that can help make the transition to sobriety easier.
Vitamin A
A study conducted at the University of Illinois in Urbana showed that 57 percent of the study's alcoholic participants had vitamin A deficiencies. Vitamin A is poorly absorbed by the bodies of alcoholics, particularly those who have sustained serious liver damage, says James F. Balch, M.D. A vitamin A supplement can be used to help correct deficiencies and help the body rebuild cells and strengthen the immune system. Charles S. Lieber, director of the National Institutes of Health's Alcohol Research Center, recommends a supplement of no more than 5,000 IU per day for men and 4,000 IU per day for women. Larger amounts can compound the effects of alcohol on the liver, says Lieber.
B Vitamins
Vitamin B6 is destroyed by alcohol use, says Dr. Halsted, noting that over 50 percent of heavy drinkers exhibit B6 deficiencies. This vitamin is needed to transmit nerve impulses in the brain, and even a mild deficiency can induce seizures. Folate is another B vitamin that is depleted by heavy alcohol use. Dr. Halsted recommends a supplement containing 2 mg of B6 and 400 mcg of folate per day.
Thiamin
Thiamin is an important component of normal brain activity, and a deficiency can contribute to poor memory, unsteadiness and confusion, according to Dr. Halsted. This vitamin affects the production and release of neurotransmitters, as well as nerve impulses. Halsted notes that studies have shown that thiamin deficiencies in alcoholics can lead to Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome, a brain disorder causing memory loss and lack of balance. Studies have also demonstrated that up to 80 percent of alcoholics in the United States exhibit thiamin deficiencies. A supplement containing 50 mg a day can help halt damage caused by a thiamin deficiency.
Vitamin C
A French study of 102 alcoholics showed that vitamin C levels remained deficient even after they quit drinking, noted Dr. Halsted. Vitamin C boosts the immune system and provides antioxidant protection against free radical damage. Alcoholics should take 60 mg per day of vitamin C, which is the daily recommended allowance for adults.
References
- Centers for Disease Control: Alcohol Use
- "Prevention's Healing with Vitamins: The Most Effective Vitamin and Mineral Treatments for Everyday Health Problems and Serious Disease;" Alice Feinstein and Prevention Magazine Editors; 1998
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing;" James F. Balch, M.D.; 1997
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