Expert: Jurriaan Plesman, Nutritional Psychotherapist - 4/11/2009

Question
Hi!

So I have a few questions.  I just started dating a former drug addict, he's been clean for over 5 years and doing great.  We're very open about our needs and emotions, it seems he's definitely done some work to help get to the root of his addiction.  I've had my own past issues with drug use and have gone to a hypnotherapist for off and on for many years. Also I've been on anti-depressants for 5 years now and its changed my life for the better.

My challenge is that I still drink wine and love to go to a nice dinner and share a bottle with friends, whatever.  By no means do I 'over do it' and neither do the group of people I hang out with.  I don't care if he chooses not to drink, but I'm wondering if this could be a negative influence on him?  Does kissing me if I've been drinking create a craving on his part? He says when he goes out he just has a redbull and soda and its no big deal if other people are drinking in front of him but, I just want to know if there are things I can do to support him but still enjoy myself. What can I do? Plus, I want him to be able to enjoy the company of my friends without putting him at risk.

Any advice would be great!

Answer
HI alicia,

There is a true saying that an addict should COMPLETELY abstain  from his drug of addiction. This is because an addict has a different metabolism of drugs to other people.

Please read:

Drug Addiction is a Nutritional Disorder at:
http://www.hypoglycemia.asn.au/articles/drug_addictions_nutritional_disorder.htm...

Depression is a Nutritional Disorder at:
http://www.hypoglycemia.asn.au/articles/depression_disorder.html

and ask to be referred to a Nutritional Doctor, Clinical Nutritionist or Nutritional Psychologist.

Unless the underlying cause of addiction is treated, the person dabbling with his drug of addiction will always be vulnerable to relapse with dire consequence.

I recommend that you both read my book GETTING OFF THE HOOK at Google Book Search.

_______________________________________________
Jurriaan Plesman, Nutritional Psychotherapist
Hon. Editor of
The Hypoglycemic Health Association of Australia.
www.hypoglycemia.asn.au
Author of "Getting off the Hook"
Freely available at Google Book Search
Skype: jurplesman