A Vitamin Regimen for Bipolar Disorder and Extreme Fatigue

A Vitamin Regimen for Bipolar Disorder and Extreme Fatigue
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Vitamins are essential for the function of the brain and organs. Bipolar disorder and extreme fatigue are conditions that make it difficult to perform daily tasks. According to Mayoclinic.com, several conditions are associated with extreme fatigue such as cancer, anemia, depression and chronic fatigue syndrome. Bipolar disorder is a serious mental illness that requires medication. Vitamins can aid in treatment of bipolar disorder and extreme fatigue. However, seek medical advice before using a vitamin regimen due to possible adverse interactions with medication.

Multivitamins

Multivitamins are important for your overall health. They replace the nutrients needed that are lacking in your daily dietary food sources. Use them as instructed on the multivitamin supplement label. Vitamin deficiencies can cause bipolar symptoms and fatigue; vitamin B-12 and vitamin D are likely to cause associated symptoms. Visit a doctor regularly to monitor your vitamin intake, as high levels can have dangerous consequences.

Vitamin B-12 Supplement

B-12 is a water-soluble vitamin found in food, as a dietary supplement and prescription. The National Institutes of Health says vitamin B-12 can improve fatigue and weakness due to its effects in boosting cells' metabolism. This produces a release in energy that improves alertness and athletic performance. Vitamin B-12 is a promising supplement for treating some bipolar symptoms. A journal, "Neurological Manifestations of Vitamin B-12 Deficiency" published a report that vitamin B-12 deficiency may cause mania and paranoid psychosis in patients.

The University of Maryland Medical Center recommends 2,500 mcg to 5,000 mcg of vitamin B-12 injections every two to three days for several weeks. Treatment requires a vitamin B-12 prescription and a diagnosis from a medical professional.

Vitamin D

Vitamin D is found in natural food sources such as fish, eggs and cod liver oil. Mayoclinic.com reports that about 10 minutes of sun exposure daily is sufficient to avoid vitamin D deficiency. Fatigue may be caused by a vitamin D deficiency according to "Scandinavian Journal of Primary Health Care" published in 2010. For bipolar disorder, a "Current Psychiatry Report" in 2009 says vitamin D is a recommended supplement for the mood disorder and cognition.

Other Vitamins & Considerations

Iron, vitamin C, and vitamin B complex are essential additions to your vitamin regimen. It is crucial to find the cause of extreme fatigue to create an appropriate vitamin regimen. Describe your symptoms to a doctor for a complete diagnosis and treatment options. Some of the vitamin supplements can have adverse effects with your bipolar medication that is required for treatment. Consult a doctor before using a vitamin regimen.

References

Article reviewed by GlennK Last updated on: Jun 26, 2011

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