The phrase “Going Cold Turkey” is one we are all familiar with, but are we taking it literally enough? One history of this phrase has it that alcoholics and smokers who wanted to stop the addiction cycle would actually eat cold turkey meat. As we all know turkey contains high amounts of the amino acid tryptophan. Tryptophan is an essential amino acid, meaning that it can not be synthesised by the human body and must be supplemented in ones diet. It is an important precursor to making serotonin, which is a neurotransmitter which has a direct effect on the mood, emotions, sleep, and appetite in humans. Serotonin can in turn be converted to melatonin which may help to reduce agitation, improve sleep and enhance mood while one is going through the withdrawal phase of addiction. Supplementing the serotonin and melatonin in one’s diet as the nicotine or the alcohol is withdrawn may make a big difference in ones ability to stop smoking or drinking. The use of acupuncture has been shown to have a direct effect on both dopamine and morphine receptors within the neurosystem, which is invaluable in helping to reduce cravings for the addictive substance. My recommendation for anyone battling addiction is a dietary supplement of tryptophan during the day and melatonin at night with acupuncture 4-5 times per week during the acute withdrawal period. This regiment helps to address both the chemical and mental aspects of addiction and can make a big difference in one’s efforts to quit.