Addiction Caused by Biochemistry, Not Character

Long-Term “Clean and Sober” Easier With Orthomolecular Program

By Gracelyn Guyol

            Addiction is not due to a character flaw or weakness.  It is caused by biochemical imbalances in the body that trigger intense cravings.  Alternative to Meds Center in Sedona, Arizona, offers a science-based residential program that identifies unique physical causes for each individual.  Staying “clean and sober” becomes easier once imbalances are eliminated using an orthomolecular approach combined with removal of neuro-toxins through detoxification.

            Orthomolecular means right or correct molecule.  Orthomolecular medicine refers to healing with inexpensive, naturally derived substances, which cannot be patented like drugs to deliver immense profits yet are essential for correcting biochemical balance and restoring health.  Twelve-step and conventional alcohol addiction programs have a long-term abstinence rate of 3-10%.  Results from a 1987 study of an orthomolecular program  at Health Recovery Center in Minneapolis showed 74% of participants remained “abstinent and stable” three years later.

            Residents at Alternative to Meds Center begin by meeting with a licensed medical doctor.  Laboratory tests determine kidney and liver function, complete blood count, metabolic status, and heavy metal toxicity.  Tapering off drugs (street, psychiatric, and other addictive prescriptions) takes four to eight weeks.   Chelation therapy clears drugs and environmental toxins that leave people in a weakened state with continuous cravings, infections, depression, or psychosis.  

            A whole food diet, natural supplements, and stress management methods correct underlying deficiencies, enabling sustained recovery.   Residents are taught the causes of addictive biochemistry and how to maintain stability through the center’s educational program, utilizing groundbreaking work of Julia Ross, MA, Joan Larson, Ph.D., psychiatrist Michael Lesser, MD, and other orthomolecular pioneers.

             Alternative to Meds Founder Lyle Murphy was diagnosed with psychosis.  “I was put on antipsychotic medications instead of having the medical cause - blood sugar coma - identified and treated.   At ATMC we effectively handle the underlying toxicity of the body along with any medical issues or nutritional deficiencies that prevent optimal mental health.”

            Director of Admissions Mark Wenzel was a drug-addict and alcoholic from ages 19-36. Craving drugs, unable to stay sober for more than nine months, he cycled through “revolving door” treatments ten times before finding solid recovery using an orthomolecular program in 2004.  

            Both men are committed to helping others get clean, sober, off ineffective psychiatric medications, and to saving lives.  For more information go to www.alternativetomedscenter.com or call Help Lines at 800 301-3753 and 800 359-9698.

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By Gracelyn Guyol, www.crazyrecovery.com