Bipolar disorder can wreak havoc on your life, affecting your well-being and your ability to function. While a number of treatments can help manage your symptoms, researchers have also been delving into the area of nutritional and dietary supplements to determine their potential benefits for bipolar disorder. In particular, lecithin appears to have some benefit for bipolar patients, although studies regarding its effectiveness have had mixed results. Inform your doctor before using any dietary supplement.
About Lecithin
Lecithin is a type of lipid material, composed of two substances known as choline and inositol. Lecithin plays an important role in cell membrane growth and development and is a part of every living cell in your body. In fact, almost one-third of your brain is made of lecithin. According to the book "Principles of Orthomolecularism," lecithin is required for the production of the neurotransmitter known as acetylcholine, found in both the central and peripheral nervous system. Acetylcholine helps maintain proper brain and nerve function as well as assist with muscle activation. Although you can purchase over-the-counter lecithin supplements, the most beneficial sources of lecithin are from food products, such as eggs, soy beans, whole grains, legumes and peanuts, according to the July 2002 "Wellness Letter" published by UC Berkeley.
Bipolar Disorder Facts
Bipolar disorder, sometimes referred to as manic depression or manic depressive disorder, affects around 8 million people, according to the 2002 supplement by the American College of Physicians, "A Guide to Bipolar Disorder." Bipolar disorder causes a combination of depressive and manic episodes, or mood swings. During a depressive episode, you may experience symptoms such as a lowered mood, sleep problems, appetite changes, irritability, lack of self-esteem, apathy and a lack of interest in activities you used to enjoy. A manic episode causes feelings of elation, or extreme "highs," and invincibility, which may cause you to act irresponsibly, dangerously or irrationally. You may also experience such symptoms as irritability, insomnia, racing thoughts and being easily distracted. While a number of treatments, including medication and psychotherapy, can help bipolar disorder, researchers have found that certain dietary supplements, such as lecithin, may also provide a number of benefits.
Clinical Evidence
A few clinical studies have shown the benefits of lecithin treatment for improving certain symptoms of bipolar disorder. A study published in 1982 in the "American Journal of Psychiatry" showed that treatment with pure lecithin improved symptoms of mania in five out of six study participants. A case study, published in the January 1982 issue of the "American Journal of Psychiatry" also showed the benefits of lecithin treatment for symptoms of mania. The researcher, Dr. Herbert Schreier, successfully used lecithin to treat a 13-year old girl suffering from early-onset bipolar disorder. Interestingly, her symptoms did not respond to traditional bipolar treatments like lithium but did respond to lecithin treatment. More clinical studies are needed to fully evaluate the benefits of lecithin in patients with bipolar disorder.
Considerations
While lecithin appears to provide benefits for certain symptoms of bipolar disorder, you should never use dietary supplements to self-treat any symptoms you may be experiencing. Bipolar disorder can become worse if not properly treated. Consult your doctor if you think you have bipolar disorder. If you plan to use a lecithin supplement, inform your doctor.
References
- "Principles of Orthomolecularism"; R. Hemat; 2003
- "Wellness Letter"; UC Berkeley; July 2002
- "A Guide to Bipolar Disorder"; American College of Physicians; 2007
- "American Journal of Psychiatry"; Lecithin in the Treatment of Mania: Double-blind, Placebo-controlled Trials; B.M. Cohen, et al.; 1982
- "American Journal of Psychiatry"; Mania Responsive to Lecithin in a 13-year Old Girl; Herbert Schreier; 1982
