If you or someone you know suffers from early stages of bipolar disorder you may want to begin with natural treatments before surrendering to harsh medications. Initial onset of bipolar disorder may only result in a few drastic manic and depressive mood swings per year. Certain vitamins and herbs may help stabilize and prevent these changes in your mood. Talk with your doctor before adding any new supplements to your diet and have your doctor monitor your progress with natural treatments. If you are already on medication for bipolar disorder, do not replace it with natural treatments, unless directed by your doctor.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
If you are bipolar, load up on the seafood, because it is packed with omega-3 fatty acids, which MayoClinic.com recommends as a natural treatment to help prevent depressive mood swings associated with bipolar disorder. Omega-3 fatty acid oils help to improve brain function and elevate mood. MayoClinic.com states that bipolar disorder seems to be less prevalent in areas where fish rich in omega-3 fatty acids are eaten on a consistent basis. Seafood that supplies high amounts of omega-3 fatty acids include salmon, herring, halibut, tuna and krill.
Folic Acid
Folic acid, or vitamin B-9 is vital for proper function of your nervous system. This nutrient plays a crucial role in brain function as well, which directly affects mental and emotional health. A study conducted by P.S. Brocardo and associates, published in the June 2010 issue of "Bipolar Disorders," showed that folic acid had a significant impact on reducing manic symptoms associated with bipolar disorder. Folic acid was comparable with lithium chloride, a standard medication used to treat manic-depressive disorders.
Herbs
Some herbs may help with stabilizing mood swings associated with bipolar disorder. According to MayoClinic, S-adenosyl-L-methionine, or SAMe, is an amino acid supplement that appears to aid brain function and improve depression. However, additional research needs to be done to prove its effectiveness on bipolar disorder. St. John's wort may also help counter depression in people who suffer with bipolar disorder by elevating their moods. The University of Maryland Medical Center states that scientists believe St. John's wort has similar effects of SSRI's, which are used as antidepressants, because it makes neurotransmitters that directly affect mood more available; these include serotonin, dopamine and norepinephrine.
Warning
Though herbal treatments are natural, they still have potential risks and side effects. Many herbs used to treat symptoms of depression, including St. John's wort, interact with antidepressants and other medications. St. John's wort and SAMe may trigger mania, so make sure your use is closely monitored by your doctor. MayoClinic advises to be honest with your doctor about exactly what natural remedies you are taking or want to try to avoid possible side effects or interactions.
References
- MayoClinic: Bipolar Disorder; Definition
- MayoClinic: Bipolar Disorder; Alternative Medicine
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Omega-3 Fatty Acids
- Bipolar Disorders: Folic acid administration prevents ouabain-induced hyperlocomotion and alterations in oxidative stress markers in the rat brain.
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Vitamin B9; Folic Acid
- University of Maryland Medical Center: St. John's Wort
