What About St Johns Wort And Bipolar Disorder
St. John’s wort , an herbal therapy thatââ¬â¢s been shown in studies to lift symptoms of minor to moderate depression, has been used in Europe for centuries. Minor to moderate depression is a common disorder that’s under diagnosed and under treated. Not only can minor to moderate depression affect your daily functioning and quality of life, itââ¬â¢s also a serious risk factor for major depression.
Studies show that St. Johnââ¬â¢s wort may affect various brain chemicals , including serotonin, epinephrine, and dopamine. One of these neurotransmitters is the same chemical affected by the prescription drug Prozac, a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor . St. Johnââ¬â¢s wort may also improve sleep because hypericum extract increases the brain‘s output of melatonin at night. Melatonin is a hormone produced in the brain that regulates circadian rhythms, including the sleep-wake cycle.
Tms For Naturally Treating Bipolar Depression
For a while TMS has seemed like it could be the next big thing.
TMS for depression and bipolar disorder caused particular interest.
The problem is that so far the studies are inconclusive. Some research has shown positive benefits but others have not.
The Mayo Clinic summarizes the existing scientific evidence like this:
Some research showed that transcranial magnetic stimulation improved depression symptoms, while in other studies it didnt seem to help. If transcranial magnetic stimulation works for you, your depression symptoms may improve or go away completely. Symptom relief may take a few weeks of treatment.
However, in 2008 the FDA did ok one TMS device, the NeuroStar TMS brain-stimulating device. This was a clearance, as opposed to a formal approval.
According to the FDA:
Because the NeuroStar device is not implanted and carries only moderate risk, the FDA needed to only clear the device and not formally approve it.
The approval was a very hard one and followed an initial rejection by the FDA. The FDAs reluctance stemmed from their perception that clinical trials have not conclusively proven the efficacy of TMS treatment.
The FDA did recognize studies showing that TMS-treated individuals were twice as likely as those who received a sham treatment to show clinical benefit. However, some of the FDA reviewers expressed concerns that TMS for depression benefits appeared small, borderline, marginal, and of questionable clinical significance.
They Help Reduce Symptoms Of Depressive Phase In Bipolar Disorder
In 1996, Adams et al. after studying patients with moderate to severe depression proposed that nutritional strategies aimed at reducing arachidonic acid and the eicosapentaenoic acid ratio can help reduce depression severity.
Omega-3 fatty acids benefit in depression by interacting with serotonin and dopamine transmission, interacting with HPA axis , reducing inflammation in the brain etc.
Studies in patients with treatment-resistant depression havedemonstrated that addition of omega-3 therapy boosts the therapeutic outcome of standard medications.
Meta-analysis studies are assessing clinical trials conducted on omega-3 for depression report that omega-3s as an adjunct therapy is effective in patients with depression. Supplements containing more than 60% EPA in the EPA and DHA combination are more effective the dose range is 200-2000mg per day.
One study reports that omega-3 fatty acids may be more beneficial in depressive phase rather than mania phase in bipolar I disorder.
12 patients with bipolar I disorder with depressive symptoms were treated with 1.5 to 2g of EPA per day for six months. Eight out of ten patients had 50% or greater reduction in depressive symptoms within one month. No patient developed hypomania or mania-like symptoms.
Quick Gist: Omega-3 fatty acid supplementation is proven to reduce depressive symptoms at a dose of 200-2000mg per day. EPA supplements may help as an add-on therapy in bipolar depression.
Recommended Reading: How Many Grams Of Vitamin C Per Day
How Do Supplements Work
Some supplements, like multivitamins and fish oil capsules, are meant to prevent deficiencies of certain substances in the body. Links have been made between mood swings and deficiencies in necessary substances like B vitamins.
Others are marketed as antidepressants or sleep aids, but there are mixed opinions on their effectiveness and safety. Because of this, its important to let your doctor know before you start taking any kind of supplement.
What Supplements Should I Take For Bipolar
4/5Vitamins for Bipolar Disorderfull detail here
Herbs and supplementsSome people with bipolar disorder use herbs or supplements in an attempt to relieve their symptoms. Share on Pinterest Salmon contains omega-3 oil. The fish oil extract omega-3 may help, according to some studies. People with depression may also have lower levels of omega-3 in their blood.
Similarly, does magnesium help with bipolar? Magnesium — Magnesium has been found to function similarly to lithium, which is often prescribed for bipolar disorder as a mood stabilizer. Adding magnesium to your diet may help to decrease the symptoms of mania or rapid cycling. Low levels of vitamin D are also associated with mood disorders and depression.
Considering this, what herbs are good for bipolar disorder?
9 Natural Therapies for Bipolar Depression
- Rhodiola. Officially known as rhodiola rosea, this herb has been used for years to help manage stress and has also demonstrated positive effects on people struggling with depression.
- SAMe.
- Interpersonal and Social Rhythm Therapy.
Does b12 help with bipolar?
Even though large research studies supporting the use of B-vitamins for treating bipolar disorder are lacking, clinical evidence suggests that these vitamins are potentially beneficial. Like folic acid, low levels of Vitamin B12 may also be responsible for triggering manic states.
Read Also: What Vitamins Are Good For Penile Growth
Niacin Works For Odd Adhd And Bipolar Disorder
I don’t want to keep you in suspense for this long article, so I will tell you what I have discovered right away. I have stopped all symptoms of ODD and bipolar disorder in my 7-year-old son by using non-flushing niacin . I now have a loving, bright-eyed little boy, who didn’t exist before this regimen. He has been 95% symptom-free for 11 months now prior to writing this article. Below, I’ve included a reference table to see what dosage he was receiving at 50 pounds.
Amino Acid Supplements For Bipolar Disorder
An amino acid is an organic compound containing an amino group and a carboxyl group . They are the building blocks for all life, in that they are the chemical basis for all proteins.
Protein is one of the biggest components of our bodies. Our bodies use amino acids to form the proteins which build everything from muscles and bones, skin and hair, to internal organs and fluids. In addition, amino acids play an active role in our nervous system, where they function as neurotransmitters in the brain.
Amino acids can be divided into two basic groups: essential and nonessential. The essential amino acids are those which your body cannot synthesize. Your body only gets these through your diet. The nonessential amino acids are just as important, but your liver can manufacture them.
Don’t Miss: What Vitamins Should Women In Their 30s Take
Managing A Manic Episode
It is not always possible to prevent a manic episode, but as the condition progresses, the individual and their friends and family may start to notice the signs of a mood change.
Here are some tips when this happens:
- See a doctor, if it is the first time, if you have discontinued treatment, or if treatment is not working.
- Follow the treatment plan and keep all medical appointments, as medications may need adjusting.
- Try to keep to a regular sleeping pattern and avoid unnecessary stress when possible.
- Eat a healthful diet and get enough exercise.
- Avoid alcohol and other substances.
- Keep track of your moods and feelings.
If you have people around you, try to share with them what is happening so that they can support you.
Other remedies that do not involve the use of traditional drugs include supplements and counseling.
There Is Hope For Odd Adhd And Bipolar Disorder
It’s the least I can do, to write this out for others, to tell you there is hope. You must search for it. You should try vitamins and homeopathic remedies. Don’t give up. Don’t let them tell you that you are a bad parent. Don’t let them tell you there’s nothing that will help you. Don’t let the drug companies keep you tied to their mediocre medications. There is hope! There is hope! There is hope! This November 2009, my son will be free from the symptoms of ODD and bipolar disorder for a year. I am praying that I will find a vitamin cure for ADHD. Until then folks, you can be sure I will keep looking. Good luck and God bless all those who are searching.
Recommended Reading: How To Get Vitamin D Levels Up
Other Therapies For Bipolar Disorder
People with bipolar disorder who are taking lithium or are experiencing a manic episode often have low levels of Folic Acid. Supplementing with this vitamin seems to enhance the effects of lithium. Typical dosages are between 400-600 mcg a day for an adult. Folic acid has very few side effects other than occasional nausea and diarrhea.
Like folic acid, low levels of Vitamin B12 may also be responsible for triggering manic states. As mentioned previously, vitamin B12 also plays a role in the creation of many of the mood-regulating brain chemicals . No research studies have been conducted on treating bipolar disorder with vitamin B12, but the rationale behind supplementing with this vitamin appears theoretically sound.
Choline, sometimes considered one of the B-complex vitamins, has shown some promise in small trials with people who have rapid cycling bipolar disorder. The amount of choline used in these trials was based on weight . There are very few side-effects reported with choline use, other than occasional nausea and diarrhea. Some people who take very large doses of choline also report a fishy odor on their skin and breath.
Exercise
Vanadium
WARNING: Vanadium is thought to be a possible cause of bipolar disorder mood cycling and should be avoided as a supplement.
My Son’s Supplement Regimen
Dosage for a 7-year-old, 50-pound male. *Mg will vary per person consult with a physician for proper dosing before self-prescribing.
| Supplement |
|---|
Disclaimer
This article should not be misinterpreted as medical advice and is not meant as such. I am not a doctor, and only wish to relate my personal experiences with my son and our use of vitamins to offer hope to others. Always consult with your physician for the best method of treatment.
Recommended Reading: What Foods Are High In Zinc And Vitamin C
Trial Design And Setting
This study is a randomized, 8-week, double-blind, placebo-controlled, parallel-group study of the adjuvant effect of vitamin B6 compared with placebo in the treatment of acute manic episode of type 1 bipolar disorder with psychotic feature. It was performed in Roozbeh Hospital in Tehran between May 2019 and June 2020.
What Causes Bipolar Disorder
There are many genetic, environmental, and neurochemical factors that impact the development of bipolar disorder.
In this section, we will talk about the high yield differentials that should be considered in identifying the root cause of your symptoms of bipolar disorder. It is important to emphasize that this is not a complete or exhaustive list and it will be extremely important for you to establish care with a highly trained integrative bipolar doctor.
Don’t Miss: How To Use Powder Vitamin C
Micronutrients As Adjunctive Treatment For Bipolar Disorder
| The safety and scientific validity of this study is the responsibility of the study sponsor and investigators. Listing a study does not mean it has been evaluated by the U.S. Federal Government. Read our disclaimer for details. |
| Verified July 2018 by Lewis Mehl-Madrona, MD, Eastern Maine Medical Center. Recruitment status was: RecruitingFirst Posted : May 30, 2018Last Update Posted : July 13, 2018 |
- Study Details
| Dietary Supplement: Micronutrient & Fish oilDietary Supplement: Olive oil & Safflower oil | Not Applicable |
Bipolar disorder is a common neuropsychiatric illness with high rates of morbidity and mortality. Despite available medications to treat bipolar disorder, recurrence rates are high. Bipolar disorder is conventionally treated with typical or antipsychotic medications are well described and include the increased risk of acute kidney injury, cataracts, decreased cognitive function, increased risk for myocardial infarction and stroke, metabolic syndrome and type 2 diabetes mellitus, and dyslipidemia. Related to this, mortality rates are elevated among people with bipolar disorder compared to the general population. Men with the diagnosis of bipolar disorder live, on average 13.6 years less than the general population, and for women, 12.1 years less.
How Niacin Relieved My Son’s Mental Health Issues
I started with 500 mg of a non-flushing form of niacin . I made a point of not asking him how he felt because I didn’t want to get a false response. I just wanted to see how he would act that was the big test anyway. I started him on 1,000 mg for the first day and increased it by 500 mg every 24 hours over the next few days until we were at 2,500 mg. That first day of taking 2,500 mg, Wyatt pulled me aside and whispered in my ear, “Mommy, I’m not seeing things anymore!” I was overjoyed! I almost dropped on the floor right there and cried. I held it together though, and whispered back to him, “I’m so glad honey, you can tell Mommy if anything else happens, okay?” He ran off, happy as a lark.
I decided to stay at the 2,500 mg level for a week or two to see if the good results would hold out. Two days after this first victory, Wyatt pulled me aside again and whispered, “Mommy, I’m not hearing things anymore!” I could hardly believe it. Those were some of the sweetest words I had ever heard. I knew that from then on, my Wyatt, my baby whom I’d lost to these illnesses, was back.
After my research, I have chosen to add a few more vitamins to Wyatt’s regimen which, I believe, support the actions of the niacin and support brain health. Wyatt also takes 2,000 mg of vitamin C a day and 2,100 mg of omega-3 daily. I personally have also started taking multiple supplements for myself and feel better than I ever have. My other son takes vitamin C and omega-3, too.
Don’t Miss: Can Vitamin C Boost Immune System
Niacin May Help People With Mental Health Disorders
While Wyatt was away this time, a friend who is into homeopathy turned me on to the writings of Abram Hoffer, M.D.. I learned about Hoffer’s clinical trials which showed evidence that niacin, when used on schizophrenics, “cured” their psychotic symptoms . I was amazed that it could be so simple. I had never heard this from our doctors. I decided to try using niacin on Wyatt. From the research, I read it couldn’t hurt him, and I was desperate to find answers. Wyatt came home on Halloween and I started him on niacin a week later. The rest is history.
Recommended Lunch Diet For Bipolar Disorder
Eating during the midday hours can keep blood sugar stable, which is good for anyone. Foods that take longer to digest are less likely to give people a burst of energy followed by a crash. This means filling up on whole grains and fiber-filled foods. Therefore, a typical lunch might be a side salad with whole-wheat pasta or maybe roasted veggies and chickpeas drizzled in canola, flaxseed, or olive oil. This combines healthy fats, plant-based protein, and a bunch of nutrient-dense veggies. Protein is important because it helps to prevent crashes it keeps people satiated. Some options to consider include low-fat dairy products, tofu, beans, lean meats, and fish.
Also Check: What Should Be In A Prenatal Vitamin
Identify The Root Cause Of Your Symptoms And Address Them Directly
Dr. Cains, ND MA natural remedy for bipolar disorder depends on identifying what is out of balance in the body. Once we treat the root cause of the symptoms they will fade away. Here is the typical battery of tests I order for my new clients presenting with depression and/or bipolar disorder:
Our Story: My Son Was Born A Healthy Baby
Wyatt was born normal: no drugs, no alcohol, no problems during the pregnancy. He was born two weeks late, and he was a beautiful 9 pounds and 1 1/2 ounce baby boy. I was the lucky mother of a perfectly healthy baby, or so I thought. The funny thing about autism and mental illness is that it doesnt show up at birth. It is the silent stealer of a mothers joythe hopes and dreams killer. It shows up just when you think youve got a handle on this parenthood stuff and forever changes the course of your life. You thought life as you knew it ended when you became a parent, but its when this silent enemy comes into your life that everything changes.
Wyatts name means brave warrior.” For me, it was a good choice because of my religious background. I dont regret the name, and I believe that it has and still will be significant in Wyatts life. From day four of Wyatts life, he had a special look in his eyes. People would say, Wow, look how alert he is.” That was the key word everyone used, alert.” Wyatts eyes looked like an old man trapped in an infants body. His eyes were piercing, knowing, and just waiting to break free from the shackles of his miniature body.
He was also what I called an angel baby.” He hardly ever cried. He developed an extreme dislike for being held while sucking a bottle. He would literally fuss and cry until you put him down on the couch and propped up his bottle to eat. He never spit-up when you burped him. Never.
My son was born symptom-free.
Don’t Miss: What Is The Most Bioavailable Form Of Vitamin C
