By Dr. Farzad Farahmand:

 

Addiction is defined as a Brain disorder since addictive substances can change the structure and the function of the Brain.  It is characterized by the compulsive use of addictive substances and or engaging in certain pleasurable behaviors, despite their harmful consequences and their interference with life.

 

The word addiction is used in several different ways.  One definition describes Physical addiction.  This is a biological state in which the body adapts to the presence of a substance, to the point where that substance would no longer have the same effect.  This is known as tolerance.  An addict eventually develops tolerance towards the substance, and that forces the person to consume more and more doses of the substance in order to get the same effect.  Because of tolerance, withdrawal symptoms may appear upon the discontinuation of the substance.

 

Psychological addiction is a dependency of the mind on the substance, and it can lead to psychological withdrawal symptoms such as cravings, irritability, insomnia, depression, anorexia etc.  Addiction can in theory be derived from any rewarding behavior, and is believed to be strongly associated with particular areas of the brain’s reward system.

 

Psychological dependency does not have to be limited to substances.  Even particular activities and behavioral patterns can be considered addictions if they become uncontrollable.  For example, Gambling, Internet addiction, sexual / pornography addiction, shopping / spending addiction, eating, self harm, or work addiction.

 

Addiction and its effect on the Brain

 

The Brain is a communication center consisting of billions of neurons or nerve cells.  Each nerve cell in the brain sends and receives messages in the form of electrical impulses. Once a cell receives and processes a message, it sends it on to other neurons.  The messages are carried between neurons by chemicals called neurotransmitters.  In order to send a message, neurons release a chemical (neurotransmitter) into the space separating the cells called the synapse.  The neurotransmitter crosses the synapse and attaches to the proteins (receptors) on the receiving Brain cell.  This causes electrical changes in the receiving brain cell and the message is delivered.

 

Addictive substances are chemicals.  They work in the Brain by tapping into the Brain's communication system and interfering with the way nerve cells normally send, receive, and process information. Some drugs, such as marijuana and heroin, can activate neurons because their chemical structure mimics that of a natural neurotransmitter. This similarity in structure "fools" receptors and allows the substances to lock onto and activate the nerve cells. Although these substances mimic Brain chemicals, they don't activate nerve cells in the same way as a natural neurotransmitter, and they lead to abnormal messages being transmitted through the network.

 

Long term drug abuse impairs Brain functioning.   Just as we turn down the volume on a radio that is too loud, the brain adjusts to the overwhelming surges in dopamine (and other neurotransmitters) by producing less dopamine or by reducing the number of receptors that can receive signals. As a result, dopamine's impact on the reward circuit of a drug abuser's brain can become abnormally low, and the ability to experience any pleasure is reduced.  This is why the abuser eventually feels flat, lifeless, and depressed, and is unable to enjoy things that previously brought them pleasure.  Now, they need to take substances just to try and bring their dopamine function back up to normal.  And, they must take larger amounts of the drug than they first did in order to create the dopamine high.  As previously mentioned, this affect is called tolerance.

 

Behavioral signs and symptoms of substance abuse

 

• Anger, Anxiety, Depression

• Difficulty concentrating

• Dishonesty

• Low energy

• Low self-esteem

• Losing interest in hobbies and activities

• Hyperactivity

• Irregular sleeping patterns

• Memory problems

• Mood swings

• Nervousness

• Noticing that money or valuable objects are missing

• Oversensitivity

• Paranoia

• Unexplainable changes in personality

 

Physical signs and symptoms of substance abuse

 

• Body tremors or shaking, particularly in hands, head or face

• Decreased reaction time

• Pale skin

• Diarrhea

• Dilated pupils

• Dizziness

• Excessive sweating

• Insomnia

• Loss of appetite

• Muscle pain / Cramps

• Poor coordination

• Puffy face

• Red, watery eyes

• Seizures

• Vomiting

 

 

Treatment of Chemical Addiction

 

Addictive substances tend to get stored and over time built up in different systems of the body.  Factors such as poor digestion, kidney malfunction and lack of activity play an important role in the increase of build up of these substances in the body.   The use of these substances can also contribute through time to further intensify factors such as poor functioning of the digestive system.  These factors effect the proper elimination of these toxic substances in the body.  Therefore addictive substances become an intricate part of the body, build tolerance and leave the body craving for more.

 

The key or the first step to a successful treatment of addiction is a comprehensive detoxification of the body.  The goal is to first try as much as possible to eliminate and get rid of the stored addictive substances in the body.

 

The second step is extremely important in maintaining the detoxification process in order to prevent any further relapse in the future.  This step involves normalizing the function of the Digestive system to ensure the proper absorption of nutrient and the proper elimination of waste products from the systems of the body. 

 

Having a healthy digestion is one of the key factor in having a healthy mind and body.  The cells, tissues and organs in our body need to be nourished constantly in order to function and remain healthy.  Essential nutrients such as Vitamins, Minerals and Amino Acids need to be properly absorbed by the body from the diet.  An insufficient absorption and improper elimination of nutrients during the digestive process can cause a variety of problems that may contribute to such mental symptoms as depression, anxiety, mood swings and low energy, leading the affected individual to smoking, drinking, using prescription and or recreational drugs. 

 

The Liver and the Gallbladder are extremely important organs that are perhaps the most affected by the consumption of addictive substances.  Liver and Gallbladder detoxification is a vital step in the treatment of addiction.  Having a clean Gallbladder can tremendously improve digestion as well as other vital functions in the body. 

 

The Liver is known as the organ of detoxification.  Consumption of addictive substances tends to greatly affect the proper functioning of the liver.  As a result instead of being neutralized the toxins remain in the body and are stored in the system causing addiction, tolerance and more craving of toxins.

 

Dr. Salar’s Liver and Gallbladder Cleansing salt Formula is a special blend of minerals designed to effectively cleanse the Liver and the Gallbladder of toxins.  It is recommended to be used twice a year not only in the treatment of addiction but for everyone.

 

Dr. Salar’s Gastritis & Anti-Parasite Formula, is a special Homeopathic combination formula designed to effectively normalize the function of the Digestive System, in addition to eliminating worms and parasites from the body.  It is the result of years of research and evolving experience with astonishing results in not only the treatment of addiction but restoring health and well being to many patients.

 

 

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For a Free phone consultation, please call:

 

818 501 2000

 

Farzad Farahmand, D.C.

22020 Clarendon Street, Suite 101

Woodland Hills, Ca. 91367