The benefits of the brain chemicals such as serotonin and dopamine can never be underestimated. In the previous articles we explored their specific functions and therefore repeating them here will be scratching your ears. However I would like to remind you that the use of opiates has a negative effect on these neurotransmitters and after a person has been using opiates it is important that he find ways to restore the levels of these neurotransmitters failure to which he will suffer undesired consequences related to opiate withdrawal.
Tyrosine – The conditionally essential amino acid tyrosine is a precursor of catecholamine neurotransmitter, dopamine included. L-Tyrosine is available in the foods we eat such as egg, meat and fish. It can also be synthesized in the body. Tyrosine forms DOPA, which is then converted to dopamine, and this, in turn, forms norepinephrine, another neurotransmitter related to mood. By supporting production of neurotransmitters like dopamine, L-tyrosine supplements can enhance mood, sleep, emotional well-being, and mental function, especially under situations involving environmental and emotional stress or when dopamine levels require additional support in most cases after long periods of opiate use resulting in depleted dopamine. As for some people they are born with low levels of dopamine and hence a genetically inherited problem but just like people with depleted dopamine and serotonin from opiates use, they can also eat foods rich L-tyrosine.
Mucuna pruriens– commonly known as velvet bean, murina naturally contains up to 5% L-Dopa often referred to as levodopa. Lovedopa is the same biochemical that is made in humans from the amino acid L-tyrosine and is then synthesized into dopamine. When it is taken as a supplement, the L-DOPA from Mucuna can cross the blood-brain barrier to elevate brain dopamine levels. The Indian traditional medicine champions the use of powdered mucuna seeds in treatment of myriad illnesses including the Parkinson’s disease. Recently, studies utilizing Mucuna supplements have shown promising results not just for Parkinson’s but for other conditions related to dopamine deficiency, including depression and psychological stress. Mucuna extract has been shown to increase not only dopamine concentrations, but also other neurotransmitters that affect mood, such as serotonin and norepinephrine too. Look for an extract of Mucuna pruriens standardized to contain 15% L-DOPA. Take 300 mg twice a day and you will be amazed at how effective this extract can be.
L-theanine - L-theanine is an amino acid uniquely found in green tea that creates an alert state of relaxation without drowsiness. L-theanine is known to be able to cross the blood-brain barrier and increase dopamine levels in the brain. In animal studies it has been shown that L-theanine also increases brain serotonin and GABA. L-theanine has anti-depressant and anti-anxiety effects. It reduces mental and physical stress, and leads to improvements in learning and memory in humans and animals. Even just a single, small dose of L-theanine (100 mg) significantly improves the ability to pay attention and maintain focus compared to placebo. Take 200 mg of L-theanine 2-3 times daily.
Rhodiola – Rhodiola rosea, also known as golden root is a popular plant in traditional medicine in Eastern Europe and Asia, with good reviews for improving depression, enhancing work performance, eliminating fatigue and treating symptoms resulting from intense physical and psychological stress. It exerts its benefits via multiple effects on the central nervous system, including enhancing the stability of dopamine and supporting its reuptake. This leads to notable decreases in depression, anxiety, and fatigue, as well as an increased ability to handle stress. In human studies, rhodiola has been shown to significantly reduce depression, anxiety, and stress-related fatigue compared to placebo. Basing hope in past research findings you are encouraged to find its extract and use it daily to end your troubles with opiate withdrawal effects. For the standardized supplement just use 170mg per day.
Multivitamin - some minerals and B-vitamins are known for their effects on the neurotransmitters. These includes; Zink, folate, Vitamin B6. These are very necessary for dopamine synthesis and neurotransmission. These nutrients are often depleted in individuals due to medications, inadequate diets, excessive stress, and toxic environmental exposures, compromising the ability to properly synthesize neurotransmitters like dopamine. Therefore there is need to supplement these nutrients especially with high-potency, high-quality multivitamin and mineral supplements. This will help in enhancing neurotransmitter function and playing a complementary role in supporting emotional wellness that is required for a recovering addict.
Despite the benefits of having a high level of dopamine, too much of it is dangerous and needs to be avoided. You therefore need to work with the supplements strictly as instructed to avoid any problem that may arise in case of overdose. It is also advisable that you desist from getting and using these supplements without the help of a doctor specialized in the area. For better outcome you should seek the services of an experienced integrative doctor as they are more versed in this kind of treatment. You should not use different supplements at a time without consulting your integrative doctor as some supplements may react and therefore bear even more grave consequences.
Drug addiction is a vice that should be fought by all means that is why we at AWAREmed Health and Wellness Resource Center are committed to availing help to addicts and offering them a place to call home. We offer NER Treatment and Amino acid therapy that are the most effective approaches to addiction treatment and recovery. You call on Dr. Dalal Akoury (MD) today and begin your journey to victory against addiction.
