The Craving Brain: The BioBalance Approach to Controlling Addictions

by Ronald A. Ruden

"Gotta have it" is the thought process of an addicted person. A drink, a drag, a hit, a line, a pill, another piece of chocolate. "Gotta have it." What drives this powerful need known as addiction? The problem isn't with the abused substance or activity, contends Dr. Ruden. The problem lies in the brain. As a result of genetic, hormonal and environmental factors, dopamine and serotonin levels in the brain are altered, and this sets the stage for the craving response. "Gotta have it!" The Craving Brain explains why some individuals are susceptible to addiction to alcohol, gambling or food, while others remain unaffected. It also shows why 12-step programs work, and why we need Alcoholics Anonymous, Gamblers Anonymous or Narcotics Anonymous. Describing a new, revolutionary treatment to prevent the craving response, this book will forever alter our thinking and our approach to this devastating -- but treatable -- condition.

Genres: Science, Nonfiction

224 pages, Hardcover

First published March 1, 1997

Reviews

[Tami · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book provided a more personal experience through several forms of addiction, not just drugs and alcohol. It went to the heart of the matter - brain chemistry and our preconditioning. Technical content was presented in easy to read/understand terms

[Andrea · Rating 2 out of 5]

The idea behind the book was interesting and I would love to be on board. Unfortunately, the the book is how fen-phen could be used to treat drug additiction. The last I knew, this drug cocktail was taken off the market for serious concerns by the FDA. In addition, the studies he sites in his book do not support his conclusions in the last chapter. I did like reading the biology of the brain. I an not knowledgeable enough to know if he has been totallay truthful. One other note, his explanation includes evolutionary theory. Evolutionary theory cannot be tested, therefore is scientifically invalid as an explanation for biological underpinning.

[Erinn · Rating 3 out of 5]

illuminating description of the scientific reasons behind addiction, as well as why 12 step programs promote a sense of peace. The balance of melatonin and seratonin and how they interact in our body and brain...