Narconon Drug Detox Scientific Research

Drug Detoxification Method - Scientific Literature

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Mineral and Vitamin Supplements

C. Supplements:

Niacin Effects of specific vitamins are utilized as well. Niacin has a long-term effect of reducing the mobilization of fatty acids (39). However, the initial reduction in mobilized fatty acids following a single dose is followed by a transitory increase in free fatty acid mobilization (40,41). Mobilization of free fatty acids by other mechanisms has been shown to result in concurrent mobilization of the fat-stored chemicals.

This also appears to occur during this detoxification program. The increased turnover of fat results in mobilization of fat-stored chemicals and the opportunity to eliminate them from the body.

Polyunsaturated Oils

One means of excretion of chemicals is through the bile. However, such bile excretion results in elevated levels of chemicals in the intestine, providing an opportunity for reab-sorption of these compounds (42,43). It has been known for many years that addition of unsatu-rated oils to the diet can increase the excretion rate of certain compounds. This is due either to blocking the reabsorption of the chemical or to altering the rate at which the compound is excreted (45). Supplementation with unsaturated fats also affects the content of the stored adipose tissue (45). Apparently, as the stored fats are mobilized and restored, the dietary supplements replace some of the mobilized fats so that an exchange is effected.

Vitamin Supplementation

Vitamin and mineral supplementation is included for several reasons. Replacement of vitamins and minerals lost through sweating is one reason. Correction of any deficiencies is necessary as well. Extensive sweating is a component of this program. As significant levels of vitamins and minerals appear in sweat, their loss through sweating could create deficiencies were they not replaced.

Deficiencies may already be present. Specific vitamin, mineral and amino acid deficiencies are known consequences of alcohol and drug abuse, due either to poor nutrition or to the action of the drugs themselves (46-48). PCB poisoning in animals has been shown to result in a significant decrease of vitamin A in the liver and serum (49,50). Further, research in animals has demonstrated that vitamin deficiencies retard the metabolism of drugs (51). Changes in nutrient levels, with consequent adverse effects on metabolism, may occur with other chemicals as well.

Supplementation with vitamins is anticipated to assist the individual in several ways. Such supplementation will certainly assist in correction of nutritional deficiencies. It might also be expected to aid in the metabolism of chemicals.

D. Sufficient liquids to offset the loss of body fluids through sweating:

This is a logical necessity during any extended period of sweating. In addition to liquid supplementation, sodium, potassium, calcium-magnesium solution and cell salts are taken on an individual basis. Patients undergoing this detoxification program are monitored to ensure signs of heat exhaustion or salt depletion do not appear.

E. Regular diet supplemented with plenty of fresh vegetables:

This program is not a dietary program. The only change in diet required by patients on this program is that they eat plenty of fresh vegetables. This ensures that bowel movements remain regular.

F. A properly ordered personal schedule which provides the person with the normally required amount of sleep:

The detoxification program is intensive. The mobilization and elimination of stored chemicals can put a stress on the individual's body. Therefore, it is imperative that individuals ensure that they are well-rested during the program.

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