We’ve observed anecdotally that anxiety and alcohol dependence appear to go hand in hand. New research seems to indicate that a specific brain protein plays a role in both. According to this article, Subhash Pandey of the University of Illinois, Chicago says “…it is well established that high levels of anxiety promote alcohol consumption and also play a crucial role in relapse to alcohol drinking. Our study suggests a molecular, neurochemical mechanism in the amygdala which may be responsible for the association of high levels of anxiety with excessive alcohol-drinking behavior.”

The amygdala is an almond shaped structure deep within the brain that plays an important role in memory, imagination and emotion.

I suspect that’s why people who incorporate hypnotherapy, mediation, yoga, tai chi and other forms of relaxation have a better shot at recovery. I’m also reminded of an article I read a while back called “Talking to the Amygdala” which promoted specific hypnotherapy techniques to effect positive behavioral change. According to some, the amygdala can be “called upon” during hypno sessions to help settle the autonomic nervous system.

Theories also abound regarding the size of the amygdala in those more vulnerable to addiction. (Size, in this case apparently does matter.)

A diet high in fish, which contains omega-3 fatty acids and supplementation with SAM-e and GABA is said to improve amygdala function. So does something as simple as sleep. (The amygdala communicates closely with many other brain regions during REM sleep.)

I wonder if that’s why so many people who start our program report wild, intense dreams early on. Maybe it’s a sign the amygdala is getting better.

Fascinating, the noggin.

This entry was posted on Tuesday, August 15th, 2006 at 9:00 pm and is filed under Diet, nutrition and exercise. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.