How to Use Holistic Medicine to Treat Addictions

Holistic medicine concentrates on treating the root of addiction problems. It digs into the underlying issues and focuses on the body, mind and spirit of each individual. Alternative treatments like acupuncture are leading options among holistic treatments for addictions. Holistic practitioners also believe that nutrition has an effect on addictions. Follow these steps to learn more.

Things You'll Need

• Nutritionist
• Computer with Internet access
• Acupuncturist
• Nutritional supplements

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Instructions

Treat Addictions With Acupuncture

• 1

  Commit to ending your addiction. Only you have the power to make a change.

• 2

  Select an acupuncture center near you. Use AcuFinder.com to find an acupuncturist (see Resources below).

• 3

  Ask the acupuncturist about the different addictions acupuncture treats. Acupuncture has been used to treat smoking, alcohol, cocaine and heroin addiction.

• 4

  Use acupuncture to reduce your cravings for the substance you're addicted to.

• 5

  Be aware that at times acupuncture is used along with herbal supplements. Your practitioner may put you on a regimen to further your progress and treatment.

• 6

  Complete your treatment plan for optimum results.

Use Nutrition to Treat Addictions

• 7

  Begin to heal your body through careful nutrition. There are studies suggesting that the roots of addictions lie in deficiencies in the brain caused by poor nutrition.

• 8

  Educate yourself on the right choices of foods and supplements to treat your addiction by visiting the "Addiction Recovery Guide" Web site (see Resources below). Take nutritional supplements, vitamins and herbs to replenish the body.

• 9

  Choose to work with a professional nutritionist who is trained in addiction cases. Having guidance can make a huge difference in whether or not you are able to stick to your recovery plan. Visit FindaNutritionist.com to search for a nutritionist near you (see Resources below).

• 10

  Keep away from refined sugars and processed foods. There may be a link between the way these foods affect brain chemicals and addiction.