Supplements for Bipolar Disorder

by Marisa Serafini

Overview

There are some nutritional supplements which may offer some relief of symptoms in those with bipolar disorder. Some of these supplements include lecithin, taurine, GABA, tyrosine, and methionine. The important thing to remember is that these supplements have not been approved by the FDA for treatment of bipolar disorder and that supposed benefits of these supplements may not have been scientifically evaluated.
Lecithin

Lecithin is a phospholipid typically found in fatty foods. Lecithin may have mood-stabilizing benefits that can ease the mood swings of bipolar disorder. Some studies have shown, however, that it may tend to depress mood. This means that it would be better used by a manic person, rather than a depressed person. This supplement can be taken in capsule form or in granule form, mixed into a drink or smoothie (see Reference: Proposed Natural Treatments for Bipolar Disorder).

Taurine

Taurine is an amino acid with some potential for anti-seizure use, but it may also have something to offer for people with bipolar disorder. People who experience hypomanic episodes have reported the best results with this supplement. Taurine can be taken in one to three doses per day, not exceeding 1000mg a day (see Reference: PsychCentral).
GABA

GABA is a compound which acts like a neurotransmitter in the brain and can offer some relief of anxiety and sleep problems often associated with bipolar disorder. There are already some medications on the market that interact with GABA in the brain. The use of a GABA supplement should be avoided by people who are already on one of these drugs, one of which is Depakote, an antidepressant.
Tyrosine

Tyrosine is an amino acid that may help with the depressive symptoms of bipolar disorder. It acts on the neurotransmitters norepinephrine and dopamine in the brain, allegedly increasing their production. One drawback is that tyrosine has also been associated with high blood pressure.
Methionine and SAM-e

Methionine is an antioxidant amino acid, and SAM-e is a metabolite of methionine. These two compounds may have an energizing effect which may help to relieve episodes of depression. The use of SAM-e in those with bipolar disorder is questionable, however, because it has been linked with the onset of mania.