Fatty Acids and Other Supplements

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Amino Acids	Omega 3's and Other Supplements
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Omega 3 Fatty Acids:

The Omega 3's are a group of essential fatty acid nutrients derived from marine or plant sources. The two principle types of Omega-3 are EPA and DHA - both found in fish oil. Omega 3 fatty acids have been shown to have mood stabilizing effects, and fish oil has become a very popular choice among those with bipolar disorder seeking natural treatment for their symptoms.

Studies have confirmed that people in this country and in many other countries around the world are not eating enough of the right kinds of fish and are therefore not getting enough of the right type of fatty acids. This not only leads to depression but can have horrible effects on physical health as well. The only documented side effects of the Omega 3 fatty acids seem to be nausea, diarrhea, and a fishy aftertaste. Experts suggest using fish oil instead of flaxseed oil as a higher incidence of hypomania has been noted in study results in those using flaxseed oil.

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Melatonin:

Melatonin is a natural hormone secreted by the pineal gland and the production of this hormone helps our bodies to regulate our sleep-wake cycles. Problems with the circadian rhythm are common in bipolars, and Melatonin is believed to help this condition by telling the body to sleep during the night (dark) hours and to remain awake during the daylight hours. Studies are currently underway, but evidence shows Melatonin helps with mild insomnia and jet lag, and could help those with bipolar disorder to sleep without the side effects of prescription medications.

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DHEA (dehydroepiandrosterone):

Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) and its sulfate, DHEA-S, are plentiful adrenal steroid hormones that decrease with aging and may have significant neuropsychiatric effects on both mood and memory. Several major university studies have shown that DHEA is as effective in treating depression as prescription medications.

Researchers are not yet certain how DHEA alleviates depression, but both DHEA and DHEAS can cross the blood-brain barrier and interact with the brain directly. DHEA affects serotonin, GABA receptors and other brain factors and a recent study indicates it might modulate the serotonin signaling pathway.

DHEA also helps to alleviate stress by counteracting cortisol, the stress hormone. Studies have determined that some depressed individuals have unusually high levels of cortisol.

Some possible benefits of supplementation with DHEA include improved mood and memory, an increase in energy, and higher metabolism.

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