Chemical imbalances are at the heart of cravings and addiction, and hence a major culprit in derailing our patients? best intentions. What are cravings? And do they lead to compulsive use? And does loss of impulse control and giving in to cravings actually lead to addiction? What elements or predisposition may set up these patterns of craving, destructive habits of distraction and compulsive behaviors to take on a life of their own and run amok? Laying a strong foundation through neuroendocrine balancing is essential; adrenal resilience, sex steroid hormone optimization and balancing of the key neurotransmitters; serotonin, dopamine, GABA and norepinephrine. This presentation will provide tools for how to select and interpret functional lab assessments to get at the root causes of cravings and behaviors. It will also elucidate for practitioners, the most current findings to encourage becoming expert in the employment of natural bio agents which cut cravings off at the pass, set a patient up for success, and provide the roadmap to reaching and sustaining optimal health.