Bipolar disorder is a serious mood disorder characterized by cycles of depression and mania. Mood cycles can occur only a few times per year, or as often as multiple times per day in rare cases. Periods of depression are characterized by sadness, loss of interest in pleasurable activities and feelings of hopelessness. Mania typically leads to a euphoric feeling of happiness and energy, resulting in reckless behaviors such as excessive spending, engaging in risky sexual behaviors, driving dangerously or making grandiose plans. Numerous prescription medications are available to treat the symptoms of bipolar disorder, as well as alternative medications such as vitamins and supplements.
GABA
Gamma-aminobutyric acid, known as GABA, is a compound similar to amino acids that affect neurotransmitters within the brain. GABA is available in supplements and can be used to treat numerous disorders including mood instability. Common prescription medications for bipolar disorder such as Depakote and Gabapentin affect GABA production and usage in the brain, according to Jim Haggerty, M.D., clearly showing the role GABA plays in the brain of those with bipolar disorder. GABA supplements should not be taken with a prescription medication containing GABA, as side effects may occur from too much GABA including shortness of breath, or tingling or numbness in your hands or feet.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Omega-3 fatty acids are found in certain fish as well as in supplement form, and have numerous health benefits. Preliminary research conducted in partnership with Harvard Medical School examined if omega-3s can help improve mood among patients with bipolar disorder. Results published in the Archives of General Psychiatry showed that patients given omega-3 fatty acids had a significantly longer remission period between mood cycles than those not given the supplements.
Phenylalanine
Phenylalanine is an amino acid within the body that is essential for health and can be found in both foods as well as supplements. A small body of clinical research has examined the effectives of Phenylalanine in supplement form to stabilize mood, particularly depression. The research has not been well regulated and further studies are needed; however, patients did report an improved mood when taking phenylalanine. The University of Maryland Medical Center explains that mood stabilization occurs because phenylalanine increases production of brain chemicals, such as dopamine and norepinephrine, making this an ideal supplement for patients with bipolar disorder.
