Alcoholism - Causes, symptoms & treatment of alcohol dependence

Alcoholism is a disease with serious health consequences. Find out more about diagnosis, withdrawal symptoms and naturopathic approaches to support recovery.

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Alcoholism, also known as alcohol dependence or alcoholism, is a disease characterised by a physical and psychological dependence on alcohol.

Alcoholism is an addictive disorder and, according to the International Classification of Diseases (ICD-10: F10.2, ICD-11: 6C40), is defined by a loss of control over alcohol consumption, an increasing development of tolerance and the occurrence of withdrawal symptoms. Alcoholism can have serious health, psychological and social consequences, which is why early diagnosis and therapeutic intervention are crucial.

The diagnosis of alcohol dependence is based on clinical criteria. According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), there are six main characteristics, at least three of which must occur within a year in order to diagnose dependence. These include a strong desire for alcohol (craving), the inability to control consumption, the development of tolerance, the occurrence of withdrawal symptoms, neglect of other interests in favour of consumption and continued consumption despite negative health or social consequences. In addition to the medical history, laboratory tests are used, including liver values such as gamma-glutamyltransferase (GGT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and alanine aminotransferase (ALT). Elevated levels of carbohydrate-deficient transferrin (CDT) or ethyl glucuronide (EtG) in urine or blood can also indicate chronic or acute alcohol consumption.

The physiological effects of chronic alcohol consumption affect almost all organ systems. Liver damage in the form of fatty liver, hepatitis or cirrhosis of the liver is particularly common. Alcohol also increases the risk of cardiovascular diseases, nerve damage, gastrointestinal disorders and increased susceptibility to infections. The central nervous system is also severely impaired, which can manifest itself in cognitive deficits, mood swings and psychiatric disorders such as depression or anxiety disorders. Alcohol also causes increased oxidative stress, as the breakdown via the enzyme system of alcohol dehydrogenase (ADH) and the microsomal ethanol oxidising system (MEOS) leads to the formation of free radicals, which damage cell structures and promote inflammatory processes.

Therapeutic approaches include both conventional medical and naturopathic methods. Withdrawal can take place on an outpatient or inpatient basis, depending on the severity of the addiction and the expected withdrawal symptoms, which can range from vegetative symptoms such as tremors, sweating and insomnia to potentially life-threatening conditions such as delirium tremens or seizures. In addition to pharmacological support with anticraving substances such as acamprosate or naltrexone, concomitant orthomolecular therapy can be useful. Micronutrients such as magnesium, B vitamins (especially thiamine/B1 for the prevention of Wernicke-Korsakov syndrome), zinc and antioxidants such as glutathione can help to reduce the increased oxidative stress and promote neurological regeneration.

From a naturopathic perspective, the focus is on liver-strengthening medicinal plants such as marigold thistle (silymarin), artichoke or dandelion to support detoxification and regenerate liver cells. Adaptogens such as Rhodiola rosea or ashwagandha can stabilise the nervous system and increase stress resistance. The targeted use of lactoferrin is also being researched, as it has immunomodulating properties and could potentially regulate inflammatory processes in the gut that are exacerbated by chronic alcohol consumption. Nutritional medicine recommends an anti-inflammatory diet high in omega-3 fatty acids, phytochemicals and a reduction in sugar and processed foods to restore metabolic balance.

Alcohol dependence requires a holistic therapy that includes medical, psychological and nutritional aspects. Close cooperation between alternative practitioners, doctors and therapists can help to develop individually tailored strategies to stabilise those affected in the long term and prevent relapses.