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Vitamins & Minerals for Bipolar Disorder

Your mother may have told you that you should eat your fruits and vegetables to get all the vitamins and minerals you need. For bipolar disorder patients, this could aid in helping reduce their negative symptoms. B vitamins, tryptophan, magnesium and omega-3 fatty acids are all beneficial vitamins and minerals that can be found in natural sources.

  1. Bipolar Disorder

    • Bipolar disorder is characterized by periodic mood swings from extreme high energy, known as mania, to low levels of sadness and self-worth known as depression. These are usually separated by a small period of balance. No known singular cause has been attributed to bipolar disorder, although evidence suggests that chemical imbalances in the brain play a part.

    Tryptophan

    • Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that promotes a feeling of balance and well-being in the brain. Low levels have been found in bipolar patients in the depression episode. Ninety percent of serotonin is produced in the intestines. Tryptophan is the mineral responsible for creating the amino acids that produce serotonin. Tryptophan can be found in turkey, milk, eggs, beef and brown rice.

    B Vitamins

    • B vitamins aid in the maintenance of cells and the creation of important brain functions. B12 helps form serotonin, dopamine and GABA--an amino acid that also regulates moods. B6 causes the protein reactions that are needed for their creation. Low levels of B vitamins have been found in depressed and bipolar patients, according to a December 1996 study led by Kimberly H. Courtwright. Whole grains, oatmeal, spinach, legumes and liver are good sources of B vitamins.

    Magnesium

    • Magnesium is a naturally occurring mineral that is involved with over 300 bodily functions. For the brain, magnesium regulates the transmission speed of brain cells. Lack of magnesium has also been demonstrated to cause confusion and depression. Significant sources of magnesium include halibut, almonds, cashews, oatmeal and peanut butter. People between 9 and 18 years old suffering from bipolar disorder should get no more than 350 mg of magnesium per day. Too much magnesium can result in cramping or diarrhea.

    Omega-3 Fatty Acids

    • The lack of omega-3 fatty acids in bipolar patients has been documented through scientific research. A 1999 Harvard double-blind study conducted by Dr. Andrew Stoll indicated that omega-3 fatty acids contain antidepressant and mood-stabilizing properties because they improve cell signaling between the brain and neurotransmitters. This includes slowing down overexcited cells in the same manner as Lithium. Good sources of omega-3 fatty acids are cold-water fish like salmon, and flaxseed oil.

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