The Role of Supplements in Supporting Recovery from Alcohol Use Disorder: Spotlight on Magnesium, L-Glutamine, and DLPA
David Mahler • June 5, 2025
Recovering from Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD) is a complex journey that can require many different steps such as detox, therapy, finding a good recovery coach, belonging to a supportive community and making lifestyle changes. In recent years, the integration of nutritional supplementation has gained attention as a potential tool to ease withdrawal symptoms, support brain chemistry, and rebuild the body's depleted resources. Among the supplements being explored, magnesium, L-glutamine, and DL-phenylalanine (DLPA) have emerged as particularly promising.
Understanding the Nutritional Toll of AUD
Chronic alcohol use depletes the body of essential nutrients and impairs its ability to absorb and utilize vitamins and minerals. Alcohol disrupts gut health, liver function, and metabolic pathways that are crucial for maintaining physical and mental health. As a result, many individuals with AUD suffer from deficiencies that exacerbate fatigue, mood disorders, cravings, and cognitive difficulties.
Magnesium: The Calm Within the Storm
Magnesium is a vital mineral involved in over 300 biochemical reactions in the body, including nerve function, muscle control, and mood regulation. Alcohol acts as a diuretic, increasing the excretion of magnesium and contributing to widespread deficiencies among those with AUD.
Why Magnesium Matters in Recovery:
- Mood Stabilization:
Magnesium helps regulate neurotransmitters like serotonin and GABA, which are often disrupted by chronic alcohol use. Deficiencies can lead to anxiety, depression, and insomnia.
- Craving Reduction:
Some studies suggest that magnesium supplementation may help reduce the severity of alcohol cravings.
- Improved Sleep:
Restorative sleep is critical in recovery, and magnesium supports better sleep quality by promoting relaxation and reducing nighttime awakenings.
Supplementing with magnesium can help restore balance in the central nervous system and alleviate some of the physical and emotional discomforts of early sobriety. Magnesium glycinate and citrate are often recommended due to their high bioavailability and gentle effects on the digestive system.
L-Glutamine: Fuel for the Healing Brain
L-glutamine is a non-essential amino acid that becomes conditionally essential during times of physical stress, such as alcohol withdrawal and early recovery. It plays a critical role in immune function, gut health, and most notably, as a precursor to neurotransmitters.
Why L-Glutamine Supports Recovery:
- Curbing Cravings: L-glutamine is known to cross the blood-brain barrier and convert into glutamate and GABA, two neurotransmitters that influence mood and cravings. Some anecdotal evidence and preliminary research suggest that L-glutamine may reduce the intensity of alcohol and sugar cravings.
- Gut Repair: Alcohol severely damages the gut lining and microbiome. L-glutamine helps repair the intestinal wall and supports the growth of beneficial gut bacteria, aiding nutrient absorption and reducing inflammation.
- Brain Energy: During withdrawal, the brain is starved for glucose. L-glutamine serves as an alternative energy source, helping to reduce the mental fog and fatigue that often accompany early recovery.
Taken as a supplement, L-glutamine powder or capsules may provide immediate and long-term benefits, particularly when cravings strike unexpectedly.
DLPA: The Mood-Enhancing Amino Acid
DL-phenylalanine (DLPA) is a combination of two forms of the amino acid phenylalanine: D-phenylalanine and L-phenylalanine. This supplement is particularly interesting in the context of addiction recovery due to its role in supporting mood and motivation.
How DLPA Aids in Recovery:
- Dopamine Support:
L-phenylalanine is a precursor to dopamine, the "feel-good" neurotransmitter that becomes depleted with chronic alcohol use. Replenishing dopamine levels can help restore motivation, pleasure, and focus.
- Pain Reduction:
D-phenylalanine inhibits the breakdown of endorphins, the body's natural painkillers. This can help reduce both emotional and physical pain during withdrawal.
- Emotional Stability:
Many in recovery experience emotional volatility. By supporting neurotransmitter balance, DLPA may help stabilize mood swings and enhance emotional resilience.
DLPA is often used in early recovery protocols to help rebuild the brain's reward system and ease the emotional challenges of sobriety. It should be used under medical supervision, particularly for individuals with certain psychiatric conditions or those taking antidepressants.
Integrating Supplements into a Holistic Recovery Plan
While magnesium, L-glutamine, and DLPA offer promising benefits, they are not standalone solutions. Supplementation should be seen as one component of a comprehensive recovery plan that includes: - Professional Treatment: Therapy, recovery coaching, counseling, and possibly medication-assisted treatment.
- Nutrition:
A diet rich in whole foods, including fruits, vegetables, lean protein, and healthy fats. - Exercise: Regular physical activity to support mood and overall health.
- Support Systems:
Peer groups, family support, and sober communities.
Safety and Considerations
Before starting any supplement, it's essential to consult with a healthcare provider, especially during the sensitive early stages of recovery. Individual needs vary, and some supplements may interact with medications or underlying health conditions.
Conclusion
The road to recovery from Alcohol Use Disorder is challenging, and there are many roads to recovery such as 12 step meetings, treatment centers , and addiction coaching. Studies show that the integration of targeted nutritional supplements can offer meaningful support. Magnesium helps soothe the nervous system and improve sleep; L-glutamine aids in curbing cravings and healing the gut; and DLPA supports mood and emotional resilience. When used thoughtfully and in conjunction with other recovery strategies, these supplements can empower individuals to rebuild their health and find strength in sobriety.
Disclaimer: This blog is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice or treatment. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider before starting any new supplement or treatment program.
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