Bipolar Disorder: Best Treatment Still Uncertain

According to an article in Family Practice News 10/15/2011, “When treating Bipolar depression ‘we are in the land of uncertain where physicians must improvise and do their best with what’s available’.” The article goes on to say, “The published evidence base for treating bipolar depression should not be viewed as synonymous with the best practice.” Even though the literature “provides insufficient evidence to document a beneficial role for antidepressants in the treatment of bipolar depression, along with some evidence against any efficacy”, many psychiatrists prescribe antidepressants as first line therapy or combined with other drugs.

It appears to me that what is needed here, is a look at the actual underlying cause of what is called bipolar depression. Bipolar refers to symptoms that range from feeling depressed to being very manic.

Mania symptoms may include excessive happiness, excitement, irritability, restlessness, increased energy, less need for sleep, racing thoughts, high sex drive, and a tendency to make grand and unattainable plans.

Depression symptoms may include sadness, anxiety, irritability, loss of energy, uncontrollable crying, change in appetite causing weight loss or gain, increased need for sleep, difficulty making decisions, and thoughts of death or suicide. (from WebMD)

The Block Center has found that bipolar symptoms often occur from experiencing Hypoglycemia or low blood sugar. A one-week diet diary listing everything eaten or drank and the time of day can often lead to a diagnosis of Hypoglycemia. In fact, before even considering a diagnosis of Bipolar, diet changes are recommended and most of the time the “bipolar” symptoms resolve without a psychiatric label being applied.

Diet changes include protein only for breakfast, protein snacks mid-morning, mid-afternoon and evening and small amounts of protein at lunch and dinner. All sugars and artificial sweeteners must be removed.

At The Block Center the goal is always to Find the Cause and Fix the Problem, Not Just Cover Symptoms with Drugs. www.blockcenter.com