Could B-12 Curb the Bipolar "epidemic ?"

While this research is still underway, we do knowways to control stress, remain very active, and
that the number of people, young and old, beingget a balanced diet, including appropriate
diagnosed with bipolar disorder (it used to besupplements, in particular B-12.
called manic-depression) continues to climb. MentalStudies have shown that those who have a B-12
health experts estimate that some 5.7 milliondeficiency can experience symptoms caused by
adults are affected by the highs and lows of thisdecreased mental and nerve functioning. These
very serious problem.symptoms can include mental confusion and
The trend is especially disturbing when you look atforgetfulness, mood swings and even psychotic
what's happening with children under 18. Abehavior like seeing and/or hearing things. A B-12
research paper published in a psychiatric journaldeficiency can also lead to shaky movementsand
recently reported this shocking statistic:walking unsteadily (ataxia), loss of bladder control,
The number of youths diagnosed with bipolarvision problems and muscle weakness. Because of
disorder is 40 times higher than it was 10 yearsthese associations, one of the first things I do
ago. So it isn't surprising that some are calling thiswhen people complain of these problems is make
mood disorder an epidemic. You might have evensure they are getting enough of the essential
seen a Newsweek cover story on this topicin avitamins like B-12.
recent issue.Who's at risk, what you can do. If you're an older
Dramatic evidence that a vitamin powerhouse canadult, a strict vegetarian, or have thyroid, liver or
help boost mental well-beingkidney problems, you're at risk for B-12
Bipolar disorder is classified as a medical illness, anddeficiency. As we age, our bodies may become
those who suffer from it experience extremeless able to absorb some vitamins efficiently,
swings in mood, energy and ability to function.especially in the case of Vitamin B-12. Without
While strong prescription drugs are oftenenough B-12, other vitamins like folate and B-6
prescribed to treat this problem, there can becannot function normally within the body.
dangerous side effects. And, not everyone can orAs you continue your own Sublingual B-12 daily
should take these pharmaceutical medications.regimen (and recommendit to others), you're
That's why, if you or someone in your lifetaking a positive step forward to promote
struggles with mood issues, it is vital to work onoptimumhealth in mind and body.