Medical nutrition therapy for Substance Abuse

August 26, 2015

Medical nutrition therapy for Substance Abuse: Specific nutritional threats discussed

Medical nutrition therapy for Substance Abuse is a very effective way of dealing with toxic substances in the body for a better, healthier lifestyle using natural nutritious food elements.

The dangers of substance abuse can be very fatal and life threatening if action to address them is not expedited. Over the decades we have been on the first lane of delivering solutions to this problem with a lot of professionalism, care and excellence. It is our commitment to see this problem eradicated in it’s entirely in our life time and that is the reason why we have not relented in our zeal to its elimination. For that reason, we the experts at AWAREmed Health and Wellness Resource Center under the able leadership of doctor Dalal Akoury will remain in the forefront of the fight of drug addiction applying all the tools at our disposal until we can say that the war is worn. Nonetheless this is not an easy assignment and we are acknowledging that and that is why our team of professionals are well trained to the task. Over the past few weeks we have been looking at the effect of proper nutrition in the fight of this problem and we want to further that discussion today in this article by the effects of medical nutrition therapy for substance abuse elimination and how it works.

Doctor Dalal Akoury says that depending on the variance of the substances abused by different individual, their nutritional status, weight problems and disease, we are likely not to have similarities the ways such substances affects them. It is therefore very important that when seeking for the best avenues, we must conduct out a full assessment and evaluation primarily to determine the individual requirements. And that is what we want to first explore in this article with a view of examining the common needs for medical nutrition therapy (MNT) in substance abuse and then discuss the specific nutritional threats each substance poses as well as the recommendations for addressing those threats. By the end of the discussion you will be well equipped to face any nutritional challenges that may come your way even as you fight off addiction. We therefore urge you to stay on the link for much more information about this way of fighting addiction.

Medical nutrition therapy for Substance Abuse: Malnutrition

Malnutrition is a serious health problem that comes into the body due to the deficiencies of several food nutrients. It causes the body to be pale, weak and being vulnerable to any attacks by chronic health complications. Nonetheless for the purpose of our discussion, malnutrition that is related to addiction is categorized either as primary or secondary malnutrition.

Primary malnutrition – this normally occurs when the substance replaces other dietary nutrients in the body thereby causing a lot of intoxication to the body system.

Secondary malnutrition – under normal circumstances this will results from improper nutrient metabolism, absorption, utilization, or excretion even though the diet may be adequate. Even though malnutrition is categorized in either primary or secondary, they both have one common denominator which are both types of malnutrition can result from any substance use.

Medical nutrition therapy for Substance Abuse: Effects of malnutrition

Doctor Akoury registers that even though malnutrition can affect any body, it is important to note that patients who are struggling with multiple addictions show increased deficiencies due to malnutrition. Like for instance in one of the studies it was revealed that up to 70% of addicted drug users suffered vitamin D deficiency and low levels of vitamin C, and yet in another research it was also established that some 50% of addicts were deficient either in iron or vitamins (vitamins A, C, and E being most common) during detox.

It is also important to note that MNT for malnutrition roles includes correcting any deficiencies, providing an adequate diet, and addressing any alterations that need to be made to the diet due to oral, digestive, or metabolic issues. A once-a-day, low-potency multivitamin/mineral supplement may be useful for those unable to consume a calorically adequate diet and those with dietary limitations or severe gastrointestinal damage.

Medical nutrition therapy for Substance Abuse: Metabolic syndrome

According to the experts at AWAREmed Health and Wellness Resource Center, substance abuse, especially alcohol abuse, is closely associated with an increased risk of metabolic syndrome, which consists of increased abdominal obesity, hyperglycemia, abnormal cholesterol, and hypertension. The mechanisms through which substance abuse contributes to this condition includes increased cell damage, reduced energy production, cells’ reduced antioxidant potential, and enhanced excitotoxicity. Some substances, including alcohol and marijuana, lead to higher calorie intakes, increased weight circumference, and poorer nutritional profiles, all of which will lead to an increased metabolic syndrome risk.

The prevalence of metabolic syndrome in substance abusers is reported to be 5% to 31%, with a higher risk for those who abuse alcohol and opioids. Higher risk is thought to be associated with an increased period of dependence on a substance. To reduce this considerably, it is important that we take such patients through counseling particularly on the subject of lifestyle changes. The effectiveness of this will go a long way in decreasing their risk of contracting chronic health conditions like cardiovascular disease and diabetes. Besides this such patients should also be encouraged to engage in healthy practices like exercise, weight loss and dietary changes to reduce blood pressure and cholesterol and quitting smoking.

Before we come to the conclusion of this discussion, I want to give some assurance to you concerning the best way forward even after leaving this sight. But before you go remember that we have only looked at malnutrition and metabolism and we are yet to explore on pharmacotherapy, weight management and eating disorders which are also very instrumental in medical nutrition therapy for substance abuse. Because of that we are going to proceed with the two in our next article and it is going to be very healthy for you to be there. Finally as a possible way forward whenever therapy is mentioned, people often think of resources and the cost implications. Remember what we said in the introduction that we are determined in seeing you through this process of eliminating addiction all through. That is why doctor Dalal Akoury founded this facility (AWAREmed Health and Wellness Resource Center) so that you can get the much needed assistance conveniently and at a very competitive rate. Therefore if this description suits your situation, then you need to schedule that appointment with doctor Akoury today for the commencement of your recovery journey today.

Medical nutrition therapy for Substance Abuse: Specific nutritional threats discussed

Why nutrition is important in reducing addiction

August 25, 2015

Why nutrition is important in reducing addiction: Substance abuse and nutrition connectivity

If we can all understand and appreciate why nutrition is important in reducing addiction, the scourge of addiction can become much easier to deal with.

Until you appreciate the roles or why nutrition is important in reducing addiction you may not really understand the value of good feeding habits. We are all aware that we need food in the body for the constant supply of energy that keep the body in motion but what many of us may not know is the undisputable benefits that come with a well balance diet particularly to the drug users. This is what we want to discuss in this article and with the help of doctor Dalal Akoury who is a veteran addiction expert of several decades this discussion is going to be enriched with very informative health information that you can’t afford to miss. From the expertise of doctor Dalal Akoury and her team of professionals who are working around the clock in ensuring that all problems that are associated with substance abuse are dealt with expeditiously, all you concerns about substance abuse and nutrition are going to be addressed professionally by the end of this narrations about why nutrition is important in reducing addiction. We therefore ask you to stay with us on the link and get the very first hand information that can only come from the experts at AWAREmed Health and Wellness Resource Center a facility founded by doctor Akoury to primarily find lasting solutions to all people who are struggling with all kinds of addiction.

Why nutrition is important in reducing addiction: Long term recovery process

The primary objective of doctor Dalal Akoury in the formation of this health facility (AWAREmed Health and Wellness Resource Center) is to bring total transformation to all people whether they are suffering from drug addiction directly or indirectly. Therefore when we talk about nutrition and substance abuse solution we also appreciate the work done by the dietitian’s in treating substance abuse, however it is important to note that while this is an effective role they are playing, in many cases this often fall short of patients’ long-term addiction recovery process. Doctor Akoury agrees with experts that nutrition therapy for substance abuse can be very complex since the nutritional risks vary depending on the substance of choice. This is besides the negative conditions for successful treatment which are very common including poor support, co-occurring mental health disorders, or poverty. It therefore means that when exploring this avenue careful consideration needs to be taken to see that the recovery process is not compromised along the way. And talking of addiction it is defined as a chronic brain disorder characterized by compulsive and relapsing behavior. Besides that the predisposing factors for an addiction may include psychological vulnerability, biochemical abnormalities, genetics, and environmental conditioning. Take note that social isolation, depression, and anxiety are also very common among substance abusers, and drugs or alcohol often are used to relieve these negative feelings because they increase dopamine activity, which boosts mood.

Why nutrition is important in reducing addiction: Nutrition and hydration

According to the experts from AWAREmed Health and Wellness Resource Center, proper nutrition and hydration are very instrumental in the process of healing substance abuse complications because they help in the restoration of physical and mental health besides the improvement of the chance of total recovery. Remember that macro and micronutrient deficiencies can lead to symptoms of depression, anxiety, and low energy factors which can easily cause someone to start abusing drugs or alcohol or trigger a relapse during the process of recovery. It is also important to appreciate that substance abuse is a perfect vehicle that generally leads to a lack of proper nutrition, either as a result of not eating enough throughout the day or eating foods that are low in necessary nutrients. Certain substances, such as stimulants, may suppress appetite and disrupt metabolic and neuroendocrine regulation, leading to improper calorie consumption and impaired nutrient processing. Other than what we have already mentioned, abused substances may also lead to an increase in appetite thereby causing one to over eat and eventually gain weight.

Experts now say that owing to the appreciation as to why nutrition is important in reducing addiction, many programs that target substance abuse prevention are keen on addressing nutrition because of the fact that a healthy lifestyle is a key factor in promoting mental health. Therefore doctor’s advice for those who are struggling with substance abuse, is that nutrition plays very fundamental role in maintaining recovery while at the same time also improving the resulting health conditions and deficiencies. The good part of this is that you can chose to practice this comfortably at home with very minimal experts’ intervention. And besides all these, experts have established that individualized nutrition counseling and comprehensive nutrition education programs provided to the substance abuse population have significantly improved the level of sobriety success rate by up to three months. And in conclusion just in the same way as patients with diabetes or heart disease receive nutrition education to manage their diseases, it is important that patients who are struggling with substance abuse should also have nutrition education that addresses their specific risk factors and increases their chances of recovery.

Why nutrition is important in reducing addiction: What medical nutrition therapy (MNT) and nutrition education achieves

Doctor Akoury is of the opinion that Medical nutrition therapy (MNT) and nutrition education should be in the public curriculum to keep people informed of the great benefits they stand to achieve in their health. This is a very healthy way of preventing effects of substance abuse and should not be limited only for the population of people who are struggling with substance abuse. Nonetheless MNT should target the following goals in dealing with matters relating to substance abuse:

Healing and nourishment of the body damaged by alcohol or substance abuse;
Stabilize mood and reduce stress;
Reduce cravings for drugs and alcohol;
Address medical conditions that are co-occurring or have resulted from substance abuse; and
Encourage self-care and a healthy lifestyle.

Finally we endeavor to use this platform to post and pass to everyone informative health information that meets the needs of people of all works of life across the globe. We understand the effects of substance abuse as they relate to nutrition and health, and it is our duty to help you go through treatment to correct nutrition-related deficiencies by addressing resulting health disparities and improving the lives of all individuals who are struggling with all kinds of addictions by providing necessary tools for lasting recovery. Therefore you can get in touch with us at AWAREmed Health and Wellness Resource Center and we will be there for you to the very end of your addiction complications.

Why nutrition is important in reducing addiction: Substance abuse and nutrition connectivity

Intelligent ways of containing drug addiction professionally

August 24, 2015

Intelligent ways of containing drug addiction professionally: Complete de-registration of substance abuse

Intelligent ways of containing drug addiction professionally can be very instrumental in eradicating in its entirely all the problens that are associated with drug addiction that causes a lot of harm to this generation.

In management all over the world, good managers do not just spend time for the current running events but also offer a provision for the aftermath of the event. This has been seen to be a serious setback in many organizations if not managed properly. Experts are now confirming that setbacks of failure to properly offer provisions for the aftermath of any event can ruin the success which may have been delivered from the beginning. Just like in the management of a business or an event, it is also very important that when administering treatment to any patient, careful attention must be taken to address any unforeseen eventualities on, during and after treatment. When it comes to the management of drug addiction, identification of the problem and acknowledgement come first then treatment and putting systems that will deal with any complications that may arise after treatment period. Therefore owing to the nature of this problem, we want to explore on the possible intelligent ways of containing drug addiction professionally so that any treatment done does not disintegrate to further addiction. To take us through this discussion, we are going to relay on the expert opinions of professionals from AWAREmed Health and Wellness Resource Center under the able leadership of doctor Dalal Akoury (MD) who is also the founder of the establishment. To start the discussion doctor Akoury says that when it comes to the in all the setbacks that we may have cravings for the substance one was using before treatment is one of the most disturbing one and this is what we want to start with as we progress into the discussion.

Intelligent ways of containing drug addiction professionally: Keep triggers and cravings in check

From the several studies professionally done on this subject, it has been established that in the quest of finding solutions to drug addiction, two problems are seen as the most outstanding obstacles. At the initial stages the first obstacle is that of denial. Many people are living in denial and they are not willing to acknowledge that they have a problem that needs to be fixed. In the process of their denial, the intensity of their addiction to the substances they are abusing increases such that by the time treatment commences, it becomes very difficult to help them owing to the magnitude of the damage done. Besides the hurdles faced at the initial stages, the other technicality comes at the end of the process when the patient is either progressing well with their recovery program or are fully recovered from their addiction. We are addressing the problem of craving for the drug and so doctor Akoury registers her professional opinion that “while getting sober from drugs is an important first step, it’s only the beginning of the recovery process.” She says that once sobriety is achieved, the next step is to allow the brain to recover and rebuild connections that have changed while addicted. This is likely to take some time and it is during this time that the drug cravings can be so intense to the point of getting out of hand overwhelmingly. Doctor Akoury gives several measures that an individual can take to contain the situation and she advises that at this point you can support your continued sobriety by making a conscious effort to avoid people, places, and situations that trigger the urge to use as follows:

Seek to find new friends and make a break from old drug friends – For you to see the fruits of your recovery it is important that you don’t make the mistake of hanging out with old friends who are still doing drugs. They will cause you a lot of harm and before you know it you will be back to your old habits. Therefore it is necessary that you surround yourself with people who support your sobriety, not those who tempt and tice you to slip back into old, destructive habits.

Avoid bars and clubs – Alcohol is very addictive and therefore even if you don’t have a problem with alcohol any more, don’t feel that you are strong and can resist the temptation to sip when meeting friends, in other words keep serious distance to social places like bars and clubs where alcoholic beverages are sold. Remember that drinking lowers inhibitions and impairs judgment, which can easily lead to relapse. Drugs are often readily available and the temptation to use can be overpowering. And besides that it is also important that you avoid any other environments and situations that you associate with drug use.

Be up front about your history of drug use when seeking medical treatment – This is very important says doctor Akoury that anytime you are due or you are in need of a medical or dental procedure done on you, be open and discuss freely with your physician all you know about your history and most importantly find a provider who will work with you in either prescribing alternatives or the absolute minimum medication necessary. Take note of this that this is not the time for you to be ashamed or feel humiliated about your previous drug use. The more you open up to your health provider the better help you will get from them. So don’t withhold open up and allow yourself to be helped.

Use caution with prescription drugs – Stay away from prescription drugs with the potential for abuse or use only when necessary and with extreme caution. Drugs with a high abuse potential include painkillers, sleeping pills, and anti-anxiety medication.

Intelligent ways of containing drug addiction professionally: Consistency in sobriety

When you have understood the magnitude of cravings, it then becomes easier for you to pick up the pieces and move on. That is why it is always very necessary that as soon as you are out of the rehabilitation centre, you must always keep in constant consultation with your physician so that when there is any reason of relapse immediate action can be taken to remedy the situation before it deteriorates into more heart breaking situations. And in that regard I want to prevail upon you and beseech you not to relent in your desire to remain sober. Never give up even if you relapse from time to time. Remember that it is not a crime to relapse but how you handle yourself in such situations is what matters most. Therefore always consult with experts from AWAREmed Health and Wellness Resource Center from time to time so that any cropping damage can be arrested and dealt with in good time.

Intelligent ways of containing drug addiction professionally: Complete deregistration of substance abuse

The best pathways of deregistering drug addiction

August 24, 2015

The best pathways of deregistering drug addiction: Possessing a drug free body system

The best pathways of deregistering drug addiction from our societies will depend on the societal attitude change. when this happens we can begin by eliminating these chronic elements one after the other.

Talking of the best pathways of deregistering drug addiction we are reminded of our introduction part of this discussion where we handle the mechanisms of dealing with drug addiction and the smart ways of fighting the same. In the previous article doctor Dalal Akoury helped us unlock the foundations of drug addiction and we now want to further that discussion progressively by looking at some of the best pathways of deregistering drug addiction from our systems and societies. Experts at AWAREmed Health and Wellness Resource Center under the able leadership of doctor Dalal Akoury have been working round the clock in trying to eliminate the scourge of addiction with lots of successes in the past decades and we are not about to stop because the escalation of drug addiction is ever on the rise thereby putting of the likeminded people to raise to the challenge. Rom where we left in the previous article, the following are some of the best pathways of deregistering drug addiction from our lives.

The best pathways of deregistering drug addiction: Relieving stress without drugs

Stress is one of the most common triggers of substance abuse and for sure record available from several statistics indicates that most of drug addicts could have not become addicted to the substances they are abusing if the element of stress was address promptly. According to doctor Akoury conditions like stress, loneliness, frustration, anger, shame, anxiety, and hopelessness are inevitable in life and in one way or another while still on this planet earth we will come across them. The danger is they will remain in your life even when you’re no longer using drugs to cover them up. It therefore means that until we address them decisively and professionally the problems that are associated with drug addiction will not be settled effectively.

It is interesting to note that in many instances drug abuse will most likely shoots up from misguided attempts to manage stress. Many people turn to alcohol or recreational drugs to unwind and relax after a stressful day, or to cover up painful memories and emotions that cause us to feel stressed and out of balance. Even though this is the common practice by many, there are better and healthier ways of keeping your stress level in check. From the professionals’ point of view, doctor Akoury registers that practicing activities like taking part in healthy exercises, meditation, using sensory strategies to relax, practicing simple breathing exercises and challenging self-defeating thoughts are very essential in eliminating stress that is very key in propagating drug addiction in most of our cultures.

The best pathways of de-registering drug addiction: Strategies for relieving stress quickly without drugs

Whenever we are stressed, it is very normal for people in such state of mind to feel that doing drugs is the only way and possibly the best in handling unpleasant feelings. If this is how you are feeling, we want to help you out of that feeling because it is not true and will not be anytime soon. We appreciate that stress is inevitable in this point of time, but it is important to note that even in such difficult and stressful situations, you can still learn to get through those difficulties without falling back on your addiction. Doctor Akoury is very categorical that different quick stress relief strategies work better for some people than others because we all respond to stress differently. The secret is to find the one that works best for you, and helps you calm down when you’re feeling stressed and overwhelmed. Remember that when you’re confident in your ability to quickly de-stress, facing strong feelings isn’t as intimidating or overwhelming and the following can be very helpful in the process:

Indulgence in physical activities like exercise is very important as it releases endorphins, relieves stress, and promotes emotional well-being. Therefore try running in place, jumping rope, or walking around the block and you will experience the difference.
Step outside and savor the warm sun and fresh air. Enjoy a beautiful view or landscape. This may sound meaningless to many but it is very important and has worked for many as one of the best pathways of deregistering drug addiction.
For those who may not be active enough to take part in vigorous exercises, yoga and meditation will be a better option for excellent ways to bust stress and find balance.
Many people often think that when exercise in mentioned then it has to fall in tight schedule. That is not really the case remember that even play with your dog or cat, enjoying the relaxing touch of your pet’s fur is a good way of dispensing out stress.
Put on some calming music and take time to listen to the soothing tune.
Breathe in the scent of fresh flowers or coffee beans, or savor a scent that reminds you of a favorite vacation, such as sunscreen or a seashell.
Close your eyes and picture a peaceful place, such as a sandy beach. Or think of a fond memory, such as your child’s first steps or time spent with friends.
Make yourself a steaming cup of tea and take time to enjoy it.
Look at favorite family photos it will rejuvenate your life and send off stress packing.
Give yourself a neck or shoulder massage and soak in a hot bath or shower. Doing this will deliver calmness and comfort that will send off any element of stress packing off your life.

Finally in the quest of finding the best pathways of de-registering drug addiction that will make you have a drug free body system, there will be some obstacles along the way which you must be very ready to face and address promptly. Like we had mentioned before that stress is one of the key triggers of drug addiction, it is important to appreciate that the moment stress sets in the craving for drugs will be overwhelmingly high and demanding. This is the time when many people makes serious mistakes and fall into serious addiction that they cannot come out of easily. Therefore before you let things get out of hand, it is very crucial that you seek for professional help immediately from the trusted experts at AWAREmed Health and Wellness Resource Center. This is the best thing you can do for yourself and the sooner you schedule for that appointment with doctor Dalal Akoury the better for you and your loved ones. So don’t make any hesitation and call today for the commencement of your treatment immediately.

The best pathways of de-registering drug addiction: Possessing a drug free body system

Understanding connections between obesity and food addiction

August 21, 2015

Understanding connections between obesity and food addiction: When food becomes a problem instead of a source of energy

Understanding connections between obesity and food addiction is very real in the sense that both if not addressed in good time, can lead to serious and life threatening complications.

Is it really true that people can be addicted to food? If we need food to supply the energy we need in the body then does it make sense to insinuate that food can be very addictive? This is what we want to interrogate in this case study of understanding connections between obesity and food addiction. In the past we have been making reference to addiction as a dependence on any substance that causes the affected individual to feel powerless to stop. And because of this fact, millions around the world are today struggling with addictions problems, and surprisingly food addiction is among one of the most common forms of addiction that doctor Dalal Akoury (MD) and founder of AWAREmed Health and Wellness Resource Center is going to help us rediscover as we progress into the discussion. Several studies have established that nearly 80% of gastric bypass pre-surgical patients suffer from food addiction. These studies, along with those of other investigators, also found that the behavioral biochemical causes and effects underlying food addiction are nearly identical to those of other self-destructive addictions.

Understanding connections between obesity and food addiction: Turning to food to cope with feelings of low self-worth

One of the most common behavioral characteristic of people who are suffering from self-destructive addictions is the feeling of not being good enough. The feelings of low self-worth in turn may cause a poor self-image, low self-esteem, depression, anxiety, a need to over achieve and an intense and chronic fear of failure. These are not experiences that are not conducive for life and must not be given space to grow. Measures must be taken to prevent them however if they are already with us, then immediate treatment solution must be taken professionally. If you are struggling with any kind of addiction, you must never demine yourself for being in such situation instead you need to seek for help by calling doctor Dalal Akoury to schedule for an appointment so that your problem can be dealt with professionally in good time.

It is regrettable that some of the problems we have with addiction are society based. Studies have established that as a society, we have set certain unattainable standards which are very unreasonable and unrealistic for worthiness. So whenever one is not able to meet such they feel belittled and this is seen as of great impact to the addicts who are not only suffering from the negative feelings about themselves but are also struggling with the element of stress and failure to develop the stress coping skills or strategies. The dangers comes in the sense that instead of confronting life stressors directly or finding healthier ways to manage emotions such as through exercise, journaling, relaxation, spiritual care, therapy etc., the “addict” often seeks to avoid unpleasant feelings by eating, drinking alcohol, smoking, using drugs, gambling and various other ways of escaping from reality.

Doctor Akoury is reporting that according to one collaborative study it was established that more than 90% of pre-surgical morbidly obese patients use avoidance stress coping behavior to handle emotions, seeking comfort from negative feelings and stressful situations through the use and sometimes the abuse of food. And remember that there are strong associations between avoidance coping behavior, food addiction and lack of control over eating, with most food addicts feeling that they have no control over their addiction in spite of having complete knowledge of its negative social and health consequences. Nonetheless they compassionately recognize the adverse effects the addiction has on friends, family, and self, but feel powerless over such behavior. This generates feelings of guilt and remorse thereby worsening the addictions and setting in motion a vicious cycle of avoidance and abuse.

According to the experts at AWAREmed Health and Wellness Resource Center, negative feelings toward self, remorse, guilt and inappropriate stress coping behavior is likely to cause neurochemical changes within the brain which can adversely influence mood and cause a physical dependency for the addictive substance. These neurochemical defects occur in the limbic system of the brain, the area of the brain responsible for controlling moods and basic functions such as eating.

Understanding connections between obesity and food addiction: The Body’s Stress Response

When individuals are confronted with stressful situations, specific hormones are produced, which help the body to cope with the situation. One of the body’s stress response pathways, known as the limbic-hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (LHPA) axis, generates a series of brain hormones that eventually lead to production of cortisol by the adrenal gland. Cortisol helps to make available more sugar to the brain and other parts of the body to help cope with the stressful event.

Individuals who are under chronic stress (including those who have constant negative feelings of self) have an overactive LHPA axis. Hyperactivity of this axis has been reported in individuals who are obese as well as alcoholics, drug users, smokers and victims of early abuse or trauma. Elevated cortisol levels on an ongoing basis are not only harmful to health, but also harmful to mood. It can cause depression. It also affects mood by interfering with the actions of one of the brain’s major messengers, serotonin. Serotonin defects cause depression and anxiety. Many alcoholics, smokers, drug addicts and obese individuals suffer from depression and anxiety. Nicotine, alcohol and certain drugs increase serotonin activities and temporarily improve mood. These addictions are a means of self-medication.

Understanding connections between obesity and food addiction: Food as Medication

Carbohydrates also raise serotonin levels and enhance mood temporarily. Studies have shown that the majority of individuals who are obese crave for carbohydrates. Low serotonin and stress induced activation of the LHPA axis are also known to increase the risk for substance abuse and food addiction through another feel good pathway, the dopamine reward system.

The pleasure derived from substances such as alcohol, nicotine and certain drugs are, in part, due to the stimulation of dopamine. Eating foods high in sugar, fat or even the smell or taste of an individual’s favorite food activates the dopamine reward system, producing pleasure and satisfaction. Frequent use of addictive substances, such as nicotine, alcohol and food, reduces the pleasurable effects of the dopamine reward system so that more and more of the substance is required to derive satisfaction. Therefore to be safe if this description suits you, then you need to seek for help now by consulting with the experts at AWAREmed Health and Wellness Resource Center under the able leadership of doctor Dalal Akoury and all your addiction problems will be addressed professionally leaving you comfortable and healthy to live your life to the fullest.

Understanding connections between obesity and food addiction: When food becomes a problem instead of a source of energy

Tag Archives: Substance dependence