Bipolar disorder is a serious mental illness that is often referred to ask "manic depression." Bipolar patients can suffer drastic mood swings, ranging from deep depression to an elated high that borders on psychosis for some. Prescription medication and therapy are often front-line treatments for bipolar disorder. Some patients choose to include supplements in their treatment regimen. Always consult your doctor before making any changes or additions in your treatment. There is limited research available regarding supplements and bipolar disorder.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Omega-3 fatty acids are a type of oil that is found in fatty fish, such as salmon. According to Mayo Clinic, omega-3 fatty acids "may help improve brain function and depression associated with bipolar disorder." More research is required to determine if omega-3 fatty acids do actually improve symptoms and just how much they do. Check with your health care provider before using fish oil for bipolar disorder.
St. John's Wort
St. John's wort is a herb that is taken for mild-to-moderate depression. Get doctor approval before taking St. John's wort as it can interact with other medications and could possibly even trigger a manic episode in patients with bipolar disorder.
N-Acetyl Cysteine
NAC---or N-Acetyl Cysteine---is a supplement containing glutathione, which may be depleted in some bipolar patients. A study done in April 2008 concluded "NAC appears a safe and effective augmentation strategy for depressive symptoms in bipolar disorder." Still be sure to check with your doctor before taking NAC.
Lecithin
Lecithin---or phosphatidyl choline---is sometimes used by patients to stabilize their mood, but there isn't enough evidence to support its effect on brain function. Lecithin is commonly found in fatty foods or supplements. Check with your health care provider before using lecithin supplements for bipolar disorder.
SAMe
SAMe---or S-adenosyl-L-methionine---is a supplement used in the treatment of depression and arthritis in Europe, According to PsychCentral. SAMe may have an affect on dopamine and serotonin. There is not much in terms of evidence for SAMe, and it could trigger a manic episode. Check with your health care provider before using SAMe if you have bipolar disorder.
Vitamin B12
Vitamin B12 may have a positive effect on recovery from major depression, according to a study done in 2003 in Finland; more research is still required. The theory behind the study is that there is a connection between folate and vitamin B12 levels and depression.
GABA
GABA---or gaba-amino butyric acid---works to inhibit other neurotransmitters in the brain, according to PsychCentral. GABA supplements are used to treat associated anxiety and insomnia. GABA could interfere with other medications, so talk to your doctor before taking any GABA supplement. Side effects of GABA may include numbness in the hands or feet and shortness of breath.
References
- Mayo Clinic: Bipolar Disorder
- PsychCentral: Nutritional Supplements for Bipolar Disorder
- Biological Psychiatry: N-Acetyl Cysteine for Depressive Symptoms in Bipolar Disorder
- BioMed Central: High vitamin B12 level and good treatment outcome may be associated in major depressive disorder
- HealthyPlace: Nutritional Supplements for Bipolar Disorder
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