How To Deal: Supplements + Tips That Helped Me Quit Adderall

May 28, 2021 at 10:50AM

The conversation around Adderall is more relevant than ever. We’re bringing back this important conversation from 2018…

Prescriptions are a private matter for most, but we think there should be more open and honest conversations around how to deal when we want to be done. Certified nutrition consultant and holistic wellness coach, Vanessa Fitzgerald, recently opened up on Instagram about her experience with Adderall — read about how she’s managed the mental and emotional roller coaster in today’s story here.

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Now 40 days into the effort, Vanessa has quite a few functional tips to share on how she’s dealt with the many side effects she’s experienced in detoxing from the drug. Explore the lifestyle changes, supplements and rituals that have helped her to reduce the distress of detox and kick her Adderall habit for good…

When I went to quit Adderall, I found the most helpful thing, to begin with, was to educate myself on withdrawal, the drug and what this particular medication does to my brain and body. I learned that my brain has to now learn how to produce dopamine and serotonin on its own, and during this process I might feel down or anxious. I also knew that I had burned out my adrenals, which are largely responsible for our sleep/wake cycles, so lethargy and bouts insomnia were to be expected. Last but not least, I had a fear that my metabolism may slow down without Adderall constantly speeding things up, so I wanted to make sure I was on top of my weight management.

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Here are a few of my quick tips and tricks that helped with the following symptoms…

Feelings of Anxiety + Depression

Rest. We often mistake being tired for feeling depressed, so sleeping eight to nine hours, especially during the first month, is crucial.

Classical Music. Classical music is shown to enhance dopamine secretion, boost memory and help with the ability to learn new information. It’s also calming to the nervous system, unlike some other forms of music that may be a bit too jarring during withdrawal.

Movement. While your body may be feeling lethargic, it’s important to force yourself to get outside and, at the very least, go for a long walk. We all know that exercise, especially high intensity exercise, secretes serotonin and dopamine. If you’re having trouble motivating, phone a friend! Have them come scoop you up and go sweat it out together.

Ashwaghanda. This adaptogen helps balance your hormones and stabilize your mood. Taking it as a supplement worked really well for me especially during periods of anxiety and panic.

Min Chex from Standard Process. Typically you have to get this supplement from a holistic healthcare practitioner, but I’ve recently noticed it on Amazon. This supplement is a life saver when it comes to experiencing feelings of anxiety, panic, sadness or depression.

GABA. This is a calming neurotransmitter in the brain, critical for relaxation, reducing stress and anxiety and, most of all, encouraging restfulness by making you feel sleepy at night. It is one of the most widely used supplements for helping people overcome stress.

Lethargy + Brain Fog
Vitamin B12. This helps largely with our sleep and wake cycles. Not only does it boost our immune system and give us energy throughout the day, but it also helps with the natural secretion of melatonin (the hormone that regulates sleep).

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Lion’s Mane. A functional mushroom, lion’s mane is one of the most effective natural focus remedies I have tried. I doubled the dose to achieve faster results and it helps to lift the fog and focus throughout the day.

Cordyceps. Another functional mushroom, Cordyceps helps with energy, stamina and endurance. I found it especially useful before or after exercising. These single serving packs are great to toss into a purse or gym bag.

Bulletproof Coffee. On days where I really miss that Adderall kick and I need long-lasting energy, I drink a large Bulletproof coffee — learn to make it. The grass-fed butter and MCT oil help fuel my brain with healthy fats, enabling me to focus. These ingredients also help to give the coffee a time-release effect, which can be especially helpful to those who hold an extended release (XR) prescription.

Pantothenic Acid. Also referred to vitamin B5, pantothenic acid supports the production of energy, synthesis of adrenal hormones and carbohydrates/protein metabolism. It’s important to start rebuilding your adrenals since Adderall burns them out.

Rhodiola. An adaptogenic herb, rhodiola helps enhance energy, boost brain power and burn fat. It’s also referred to as “the golden root” for its ability to help you adapt to physical, chemical and environmental stress. Take it as a capsule or as loose powder mixed into tonics or teas.

Weight ManagementGreen Coffee Bean with Svetol. Make sure the green coffee beans you choose contain Svetol. This supplement contains chlorogenic acid, which helps regulate blood glucose levels, encourage fat burning and reduce body mass index. I take one to two of these tablets thirty minutes before meals.

Garcinia Cambogia. Choose GC with HCA. HCA inhibits a key enzyme called citrate lyase, which your body uses to make fat while raising serotonin levels to make you feel less hungry. I take one to two tablets thirty minutes before meals.

Hoodia. This is the only safe and effective appetite suppressant, in my opinion. It helps if you choose one that contains green tea, if you aren’t caffeine sensitive, as this works synergistically with Hoodia, providing faster results. I take one to two of these thirty minutes before each meal with a lot of water.

The Chalkboard Mag and its materials are not intended to treat, diagnose, cure or prevent any disease. 
All material on The Chalkboard Mag is provided for educational purposes only. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified healthcare provider for any questions you have regarding a medical condition, and before undertaking any diet, exercise or other health related program. 

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