Q. My doctor put me on a mood stabilizer called Epival. Is there a natural source that I could take instead of that?
A: If Epival has been prescribed for bipolar, there is no comparable product or ingredient available. Though there is a great deal of research to examine how to naturally manipulate GABA receptors to reduce dependency on medication, we're not there yet. Bipolar represents a hyperglutamate state, so it's imperative that you avoid glutamate (like MSG containing products) and make sure there are at least 400 mg of magnesium in your diet daily (take a supplement if necessary). Magnesium blocks glutamate. Since gluten also increases glutamate in your brain, my advice is to follow a low-gluten (or better yet, gluten-free) diet (that means reducing wheat and most grains). Here is a list of nutrients that promote GABA/Glutamate balance:
- Magnesium (malate form is best)
- Vitamin B6
- Green tea (or green tea extract, 40% EGCG)
- NAC to protect liver and nerve cells.
Also, sleep (as I'm sure you already know) plays an enormous role in regulating bipolar moods. One night of insomnia or staying up late is often enough to cause a swing in the opposite direction. Doctors who practice orthomolecular medicine can prescribe natural remedies once they've assessed you.
