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. The B-vitamins are water-soluble (dissolvable in water) and are easily removed from the body in urine. They are generally considered safe, with little to no side-effects. People with bipolar disorder who are taking lithium (a common standard treatment for this disorder) 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 (in part) 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 (GABA, Serotonin, Dopamine, and others).
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 (50 mg of choline per kg per day). 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. Inositol is another compound that is sometimes classified as a B-vitamin which seems to be low in people with bipolar disorder. Normal dosages range from 10-12 grams a day. There is one report of inositol inducing a manic state, but no other studies show this effect. Inositol has almost no side effects other than stomach upset. This compound may inhibit the absorption of other drugs, vitamins, or minerals, so consult with a health care provider before taking this supplement.
As with vitamin B12, clinical trials examining the use of inositol for treating bipolar disorder have not been conducted, but the rationale for its use is sound. Exercising as little as three hours a week can have a profound effect on the symptoms of depression, but is largely untested as a therapy for people with bipolar disorder. Researchers are puzzled about the exact reason for the benefits of exercise on depression, but studies conducted with animals suggest that exercise increases the mood-regulating neurotransmitters serotonin, dopamine and norepinephrine. Exercise also releases endorphins, chemicals naturally produced in the body which reduce the experience of pain and enhance a sense of well-being. Additional research is necessary to determine whether exercise can benefit individuals with bipolar disorder. In addition, there are many unknowns about the type and frequency of exercise that might be beneficial. Lithium, a common medication taken by people with bipolar disorder, is excreted in sweat.
In one study, heavy sweating led to decreased lithium levels in the blood. Particularly if you take lithium, consult with your qualified health practitioner before starting any exercise program. WARNING: Vanadium is thought to be a possible cause of bipolar disorder mood cycling and should be avoided as a supplement.Home » Disorders » Bipolar Disorder » Vitamins for Bipolar Disorder Vitamins have not been proven effective in the treatment of bipolar disorder. They can, however, help treat certain symptoms related to bipolar disorder and help in your overall health and well-being.Some vitamins have been associated with mood regulation, include the B vitamins. If you are deficient in any of the Bs, depression, anxiety, and fatigue can result. The B vitamins work together, so it’s best to take a B-complex supplement that mixes them in proper proportions along with folic acid. The Bs have a generally energizing effect and help build up the immune system. Some alternative practitioners recommend vitamin B-12 shots for depressed patients.
They don’t always work, but sometimes they can have surprisingly quick mood-elevating effects. Because of that energizing effect, however, they may not be a good idea for those who are hypomanic or manic. B vitamins are used up more quickly when the body or mind is stressed, so supplementing during these times could have a preventive effect. A list of B vitamins follows:Vitamin B-1 (Thiamin). Alone, or in addition to a regular B-complex pill, B-1 might be a good idea for people with bipolar disorder who suffer from circulation problems, tingling in the extremities, anxiety, irritability, night terrors, and similar symptoms.In addition to a regular B-complex pill, B-6 might be indicated for bipolar patients who present with a great deal of irritability, and for those with marked premenstrual symptoms and/or motion sickness. If you start to experience tingling in your hands or feet, reduce or discontinue the B-6.Helps your body turn food into energy, and without enough of it you are likely to feel listless and fatigued.
Vegetarians may also be deficient in B-12, as it’s found mostly in meat. Other vitamins to consider:Vitamin E. An antioxidant that also seems to reduce the frequency of seizures in some people who have epilepsy. Some have argued that it’s important to take vitamin E if you take Depakote, Depakene, or another anticonvulsant, as these drugs deplete vitamin E. If you have high blood pressure, monitor it carefully after starting vitamin E, and reduce the dose if your blood pressure rises.Vitamins A and D. These are both fat-soluble, so they are stored in the body’s fat cells for later use. Having a little socked away for a rainy day is probably okay, but if you take too much, hypervitaminosis may develop. Don’t overdo it with any fat-soluble vitamin, and also be careful with fish-oil supplements (and cod liver oil), which are high in both vitamins A and D.Symptoms of hypervitaminosis A include orangeish, itchy skin; and hard, painful swellings on the arms, legs, or back of the head.
Symptoms of hypervitaminosis D include hypercalcemia, osteoporosis, and kidney problems.As with any alternative therapy (such as herbal remedies or the like), you should check with your doctor first. Just as with certain herbs, certain vitamins can interact with certain medications, causing unwanted and even harmful side effects. For instance, folic acid can counteract the effects of Depakote, Depakene, and some other anticonvulsants if taken in large amounts. It may also cause manic mood swings.A varied, healthy diet is your best source of vitamins. Some researchers believe that people with bipolar disorders may metabolize certain vitamins differently, and therefore require either careful intake via food or supplementation.If you plan to pursue vitamin therapies, it’s a good idea to purchasing or borrowing from your local library a basic guide to vitamins and minerals. Such guides will include information about what vitamins to take, what kinds of symptoms they may help relieve, as well as important toxicity information and symptoms.