BIPOLAR DISORDER: The Natural Approach
Bipolar disorder (BD) was formerly known as “manic-depressive psychosis” when I went through my psychiatric residency some years ago. I left the practice of psychiatry very early in my career because of the specialty’s almost complete reliance on pharmaceutical drugs for the treatment of psychiatric conditions, and my discovery that life style changes can make psychiatric patients feel better. Subsequently I have retained an ongoing interest in the alternative therapies for mental disorders.

Bipolar disorder refers to a primary mood swing problem wherein patients experience cyclic periods of both depression and elation (mania). Although highly genetically dependent, the condition is also extremely susceptible to environmental, psychodynamic, and life style stressors. Its incidence has been dramatically rising since World War II, but I believe this rise is only partly real, and partly a product of over-diagnosis, especially among children. On the other hand, there are many individual suffering from this disorder who are undiagnosed or misdiagnosed. Several conditions are “co-morbid” with bipolar disorder. In other words, they occur along with it, and their presence should raise the index of suspicion for BD. These include anxiety and panic, obsessive compulsive features, substance abuse (especially alcohol), post traumatic stress, eating disorders, and in kids ADD and oppositional-defiant disorder.

The mainstay in treatment has been lithium carbonate (patients don’t want to take it, it causes hypothyroidism, and has a narrow margin of safety), followed by valproate and other mood stabilizers (better for rapid cyclers), antidepressants (which can trigger off mania and rapid cycling), and anti-convulsants. There is new recent evidence that specific nutritional protocols can impact this disease. There most definitely are multiple structural (frontal cortex and limbic system) and metabolic aberrations (low glucose metabolism and reduced blood flow) in these patients, as demonstrated by PET and SPECT scanning of the brain. I also test for and regularly find neurotransmitter and glucose metabolism imbalances (like hypoglycemia) in these patients. They also should be tested for heavy metal toxicity which often produces depression and thinking disorders, and may arise from smoking or from dental amalgams.

Several nutrients now appear to be effective alternatives to drug therapies. Omega-3 EPA and DHA were proven effective in a Harvard study (Archives of General Psychiatry 1999 56:407). The mechanism of action is thought to be stabilization of the lipid based (fat containing) cell membrane, the transduction of nerve signals across it, and calcium channel blockade. Flax oil is not an adequate substitute for this effect since the ALA in flax is not a normal component of cell membranes. Other phospholipids like lecithin and phosphatidyl choline have also been used effectively for BD, especially manic episodes. Other supplements which can be helpful include the antioxidants, B complex (especially B12 and folate), amino acids, tryptophan and 5-HTP, and multi-dose multivitamins.

It is beginning to appear that nutritional (low) dose lithium carbonate replacement therapy can offer many of the benefits of lithium without the adverse effects.

Lifestyle changes such as eliminating sugar and refined carbohydrates, caffeine, and alcohol and adequate exercise are essential. One draw back to nutritional therapies is that the patient must be cooperative and willing to move towards the recommended changes. Many manic individuals are not at all motivated to do things that might lower their mood and slow them down. Fortunately the natural therapies do not produce the sedation, tremor, mental fog and other side effects that the medications produce. On the other hand, and unfortunately, it is not always possible to withdraw such patients from their psychotropic medications. However, the approach that works the best is the preferred approach, and if that happens to be the combination of medications with vitamins and life style modifications, so much the better. I have never been a big fan of psychiatric medications, but sometimes they are absolutely necessary. I believe that every implemented nutritional recommendation will reduce the chances of psychotic recurrences and hospitalizations, increase the quality and duration of remissions, and reduce the patient’s vulnerability to life stress. As always, when patients are confronted with any health challenge, including the area of emotional illness, I strongly urge a consultation with a qualified natural medicine specialist as soon as possible so that all options can be considered.
 

The information on this website is presented as information only and not a self-help guide. Never alter or change your health management or begin any new health plans without first consulting your personal health care provider. Please note: Prolotherapy and Supplement recommendations by disorders is a general recommendation. It is not our suggestion that these supplements cure or improve these conditions, neither do we make claims that these supplements in anyway are to be used in place of medical advice from a licensed medial professional, nor are they to be used in the place of medications prescribed by a physician. The Food and Drug Administration has not evaluated statements made about specific supplements nor does the Food and Drug Administration recognize that any nutritional supplement is to be used as a cure for any condition. Nutritional, herbal, mineral supplementation can be beneficial in certain health circumstances but not in every circumstance. Before using any nutritional supplement it is strongly advised that you seek the guidance of a licensed health care professional to help guide you in choosing any supplementation program.  Supplement suggestions  ARE NOT to be considered cures or possible remedies, but rather supplements that can possibly enhance the quality of life by helping the immune and/or nervous system. All medical procedures have risks, these risks should always be discussed with your physician. CMRS 715 Lake Street Suite 600 Oak Park IL 60301 708-848-7789