Amino Acids
According to Dr. Julia Ross, author of The Diet Cure, lack of amino acids has been linked to substance abuse causing cravings, anxiety, stress and depression. Restoring amino acids restores neurotransmitters which in turn reverses brain chemical imbalances caused by substance abuse. The nature of addiction and its effects on the brain can change the brain chemistry by supplementing the right amino acids along with vitamins, minerals and nutritional therapy. This helps to eliminate cravings and helps with the discomfort of withdrawal.
On this page, you’ll find several amino acids with information regarding deficiency symptoms, what the amino acid is used for, and what the amino acid is used to address along with behavior changes expected once the amino acid is balanced within the body.
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Quick Find
5-HTP and L-Tryptophan
Serotonin is sometimes called the “Happy Chemical” because it contributes to wellbeing and happiness.
Neurotransmitter
- Serotonin
Promotes
- emotional stability
- self confidence
Deficiency Symptoms
- depression
- negativity
- worry
- anxiety
- low self esteem
Deficiency Symptoms (con’t)
- obsessive thoughts
- obsessive behaviors
- winter blues
- pms
- anger, rage, irritability
- heat intolerance
- panic / phobias
- afternoon or evening cravings
- fibromyalgia
- tmj
- night owl
Deficiency Symptoms (con’t)
- difficulty falling asleep
- insomnia
- disturbed sleep
- suicidal thoughts
Addictive Substances Used
- sweets
- starches
- chocolate
- marijuana
- ectasy
- tobacco
L- and DL-Phenylalanine
Endorphones reduce stress and anxiety.
Neurotransmitter
- Endorphin
Promotes
- psychological pain relief
- physical pain relief
- pleasure
- reward
- loving feelings
Deficiency Symptoms
- very sensitive to emotional pain
- very sensitive to physical pain
- cries easily
- craves comfort, reward, numbing treats
- “loves” certain food and/or drugs
Addictive Substances Used
- sweets
- starches
- alcohol
- chocolate
- marijuana
- heroine
- tobacco
GABA
GABA reduces stress really fast because it crosses the blood-brain barrier.
Neurotransmitter
- GABA
Promotes
- calmness
- relaxation
Deficiency Symptoms
- stiff and/or tense muscles
- stressed
- burned-out
- unable to relax
Addictive Substances Used
- sweets
- starches
- alcohol
- marijuana
- valium
- tobacco
L-Glutamine
Cancer patients tend to have low L-Glutamine levels.
L-Glutamine is a Fuel Source for Entire Brain
Promotes
- stable brain function
- calm brain function
- alert brain function
Deficiency Symptoms
- craves sugar
- craves starch
- craves alcohol
- reduced mental stability
Addictive Substances Used
- sweets
- starches
- alcohol
L-Tyrosine
L-Tyrosine supports your adrenal function and your thyroid gland.
Neurotransmitters
- Dopamine
- Norepinephrine
Promotes
- mental focus
- drive
- arousal
- energy level
Deficiency Symptoms
- depression
- lack of energy and drive
- lack of focus
- lack of concentration
Addictive Substances Used
- sweets
- starches
- alcohol
- chocolate
- aspartame
- marijuana
- caffeine
- tobacco
- cocaine
- speed
References
Ross, J. (2000). The diet cure: the breakthrough programme to rebalance your body chemistry, end food cravings and achieve your natural ideal weight – now! London: Michael Joseph.