Is There A Natural Mood Stabilizer That I Can Take?

Naturally Savvy
Naturally Savvy

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.

Leave a Comment

Lisa Tsakos
Lisa has been in her own practice for over 15 years and specializes in weight management. She teaches natural nutrition in both corporate and educational environments and is a shining example of someone who practices what she teaches. Lisa is a nutritionist and educator specializing in weight management. After losing weight several years ago through a more natural diet and by improving her digestion, she committed to sharing her new-found knowledge and returned to school to study nutrition. Over the past decade, her Nu-Vitality Weight Program has helped employees at numerous corporations lose thousands of pounds. In addition, Lisa regularly consults for groups and individuals with unique nutritional needs such as police officers and athletes. Lisa has been featured on the Discovery Channel, numerous radio programs and is a contributor to various publications. Additionally, she teaches nutrition at multiple post-secondary schools, has taught natural food cooking workshops, and authored two books.