What Does It Mean?
Alcohol Use Dysfunction refers to the inability to control alcohol consumption due to its effects on neurochemical pathways, liver function, and metabolic processes. Chronic alcohol use can lead to systemic imbalances, organ damage, and nutrient depletion.
Key Physiological Imbalances:
- Liver Dysfunction: Impaired detoxification, increased oxidative stress, and elevated liver enzymes.
- Nutrient Deficiencies: Depletion of B vitamins, magnesium, folate, and antioxidants.
- Neurotransmitter Disruption: Altered dopamine and GABA pathways affecting mood and cognition.
- Inflammation & Gut Dysbiosis: Increased permeability, bacterial imbalances, and immune activation.
How Did We Get There?
Root Causes:
- Chronic alcohol consumption
- Genetic predisposition to alcohol dependence
- Nutrient-poor diet leading to deficiencies
- Stress and trauma influencing drinking behavior
- Altered gut microbiome and liver enzyme activity
Signs & Symptoms:
- Fatigue and weakness
- Brain fog and memory issues
- Mood swings, anxiety, and depression
- Poor digestion, bloating, and nutrient malabsorption
- Increased liver enzyme levels and fatty liver
- Peripheral neuropathy (tingling in extremities)
- Cravings for alcohol and poor stress resilience
Diagnostic Criteria:
Diagnosis is based on symptom presentation and other criteria.
Lab Test Findings
| Lab Test | Expected Changes | Optimal Range |
| ALT (SGPT) | Increased | 10.00-26.00 U/L |
| ALT (SGPT) : AST (SGOT) Ratio | Decreased | 0.10-7.80 |
| AST (SGPT) | Increased | 10.00-26.00 U/L |
| Ferritin | Increased | 45.00-79.00 ng/mL |
| Folate, Serum (Folic Acid) | Decreased | 15.00-27.00 ng/mL |
| Gamma Glutamyl Transferase (GGT) | Increased | 10.00-30.00 U/L |
| Glutathione | Decreased | 373.00-838.00 mg/dL |
| IgE, Serum | Increased | 90.00-220.00 IU/mL |
| MCH | Increased | 28.00-31.90 pg |
| MCHC | Normal or Decreased | 32.00-35.00 g/dL |
| MCV | Increased | 82.00-89.00 fL |
| Triglycerides, Serum | Increased | 70.00-80.00 mg/dL |
| Vitamin A (Retinol) | Decreased | 57.00-66.00 µg/dL |
How Do We Treat It?
Treatment focuses on liver support, neurotransmitter balance, and nutrient replenishment.
Supplement Protocol
| Supplement | Function | Dosage & Frequency |
| Levo Plasmin | Supports enzymatic function and metabolic detoxification | 1 capsule without food, two times daily |
| V-Pax | Enhances neurotransmitter balance and reduces cravings | 2 capsules with or without food, two times daily |
| Vita Buff-C Caps | Provides antioxidant support to reduce oxidative stress from alcohol metabolism | 2 capsules without food, daily |
| Novo Hepatic | Supports liver detoxification and repair of hepatocytes | 2 capsules 20-30 minutes prior to food ,twice daily |
| Vita-Glutathione | Boosts glutathione levels to enhance detox pathways and reduce liver damage | 3 capsules with or without food, once daily |
| Vita-Glucose | Helps stabilize blood sugar fluctuations associated with alcohol metabolism | 2 capsules 20-30 minutes prior to food, once daily |
| Vita B Methyl | Provides methylated B vitamins to support detoxification and neurotransmitter production | 1 capsule without food,daily |
| Vita DIM | Supports estrogen metabolism and detoxification to balance hormonal disruptions from alcohol use | 3 capsules with or without food, daily |
Additional Lifestyle Interventions:
- Support Liver Detoxification: Increase intake of cruciferous vegetables, lemon water, and NAC.
- Nutrient-Dense Diet: Ensure adequate intake of B vitamins, magnesium, and antioxidants.
- Reduce Inflammatory Foods: Avoid processed foods, refined sugar, and excessive caffeine.
- Hydration & Electrolytes: Support detox pathways and cellular function.
- Manage Stress & Triggers: Implement meditation, breathwork, and behavioral therapy as needed.