Glutamine has been found to reduce alcohol consumption in rats by 35% (Rogers et al, 1955). A number of people have also reported that glutamine has helped them to reduce their drinking. Glutamine is available as an over the counter dietary supplement. In a preliminary study with human subjects, Rogers et al (1957) administered 1,000 mg of glutamine to subjects who had reported alcohol problems. Subjects were instructed to take 400 mg of glutamine with breakfast, 400 with lunch, and 200 with dinner.

Why Support Groups Are Beneficial for People with Co-Occurring Disorders

The time it takes to taper off alcohol varies based on how much a person drinks. Regardless, The initial detoxification process may take several days. With that said I think it’s up to the individual to be realistic with themselves and make the safest decision possible. Alcohol is a highly addictive drug, and if you experience setbacks or find it difficult to cut down on your alcohol consumption by yourself, that is normal. If you slip up or return to heavy drinking, try to understand that it is not because you are weak or lack will power.

• Your friends and family may not be the best support system, unless they’re also recovering addicts/alcoholics.
• Tapering off alcohol is the gentlest approach to discontinuation.
• This method can help individuals gradually lower their alcohol intake, minimizing the risk of withdrawal symptoms while promoting long-term recovery.
• Alcoholism can affect multiple areas of your life, including your relationships, career, financial stability, and mental health.
• Simply put, GABA receptors cause a person to feel calm, relaxed or sleepy.

The Importance of Establishing Clear Personal Boundaries

The most secure way to taper is often under the guidance of a medical detox program, but not everyone has access to or can afford such care. Some individuals opt to taper at home due to time constraints or financial considerations. If you typically drink liquor or mixed drinks, a direct taper can become tricky. Liquor is harder to measure accurately, and mixed drinks often include sweeteners or other additives that might disrupt a steady reduction plan or worsen certain withdrawal symptoms. If you regularly consume alcohol and are considering stopping, it’s crucial to do so in a safe manner. One possible approach drug addiction is known as tapering, which involves gradually lowering your alcohol use over a period of time.

Challenges of Cutting Down Your Alcohol Intake

• Common signs include anxiety, irritability, sweating, and trouble sleeping.
• The Reframe app equips you with the knowledge and skills you need to not only survive drinking less, but to thrive while you navigate the journey.
• Individuals who have experienced the kindling effect may have more severe symptoms, including seizures, even when they use small amounts of alcohol.
• It requires a lot of willpower and you will be uncomfortable, but it can be done.

We offer 16 detox beds and around-the-clock medical care provided by a multidisciplinary team of addiction experts. The first step in developing a tapering plan is to honestly assess your current alcohol consumption levels. This will help you establish a baseline from which to start reducing your intake. It’s important to be realistic about your drinking habits and not underestimate the amount of alcohol you consume. This schedule is a guideline and should be adjusted based on individual needs and responses to tapering. It is crucial to consult with a healthcare professional before beginning a taper, as they can provide personalized advice and monitor for any complications.

Does Tapering Help Reduce Withdrawal Symptoms?

This is why it’s important to work with doctors or other medical professionals with experience in addiction medicine. Tapering off alcohol is relatively common among people with physical alcohol dependence. In this case, the body slowly adjusts to life without the substance. Tapering off alcohol helps reduce uncomfortable withdrawal symptoms and prevent life-threatening complications. Some people might need medications or tapering drugs to help ease any withdrawal symptoms that arise throughout the tapering-off process. When it comes to tapering off alcohol safely, seeking support and professional guidance can play a crucial role in your journey towards sobriety.

Can I quit alcohol cold turkey?

You cut out one drink at a time on each subsequent day using a direct taper. Another option is a substitution taper, where you substitute liquor for less potent drinks like beer or wine until you can scale back entirely. Deciding to reduce or eliminate your alcohol consumption is a big tapering off alcohol step and will open up a whole new world of improved health and well-being. Whether you’re thinking about tapering off or going cold turkey, it’s crucial to understand the implications of both approaches and which strategy is likely the safest and most effective.

Tapering Off Alcohol vs. Quitting Alcohol Cold Turkey

This can make it difficult to get medical insurance and sometimes even employment. If you want to avoid this you may choose to do the self-detox using beer as described above. The average person takes around an hour and a half to metabolize a single standard drink–for example one 12 oz beer. People who have a very high tolerance to alcohol can metabolize up to two standard drinks (28 g of alcohol) per hour.