[BNLsMOM]

I am asking my pdoc to have me tested for vitamin B12 deficiency. My mom was reading some stuff about it and although she is supportive of me, she still denies that I could have bipolar. I am curious to know if I have a deficiency.

Anyone heard of this?

[AniManiac]

B vitamins in general support energy levels and so on. I've seen a number of sources that suggest a B-complex vitamin may be beneficial for bipolar (and is generally helpful for anyone with low energy levels).

I'm planning to ask my pdoc about Omega-3's, folic acid (one of the B vitamins), and vitamin D when I go in next. There's not much likelihood that taking these supplements would cause problems, but since everything anywhere says "check with your doc" once you start dealing with bipolar meds, I figure it's better to be safe than sorry.

[Fresia]

I have BP and started to have symptoms of depression, fatigue, with loss of focus and concentration. I and the pdoc assumed it was depression. Then it got really severe and the AD's were not working, pdoc sent me to the GP when this happened but I put it off because I stubbornly expected it to be depression and told it was depression. How often have I been told in the past, it's all in my mind?! About this time other symptoms developed: cold hands and feet, and then tremors in my hands with chills all over. I went to the GP to get tested and it turned out B12 was extremely low, not even registering in the range.

It is a simple enough blood test, so if suspected get tested. It has taken a long time to come back from it and get levels back up but is treatable in time. I am still not up to par but have shown some improvement; very slow process.

It is worth looking into is showing signs of fatigue or depression, and if possibly have some of the other symptoms listed above. There are other conditions that can cause the same symptoms so it is important to a blood work-up to rule out other possibilities as well.

I take a B complex, D and Omegas. I haven't noticed a difference in my mood, energy, or vitality. But that's just how it's working for me. I'm sure my body is benefiting. What I can say is that my skin is nicer than it ever has been! I would look into it tho even if just for peace of mind, and it's good for your body.

I was tested for B deficiencies when I was being tested for Celiac and Chrones disease. My B's were a little low, and I was deficient in vitamin K and almost completely deficient of Iron. So you never know what will turn up.

[kindachaotic]

My PCP is also a homeopath, really into the natural stuff. Years ago started testing my vit D levels which were so low they didn't register. At times I have had to take the prescription strength. For now they are better. Also have to take prescription strength folic acid for couple different reasons.

Take b-complex, flax & multiple vit. just on my own. Think I feel better just knowing I'm trying to take care of myself.

Also read somewhere that you need extra folic acid if taking lamictal.
Maybe someone can google that one.

Just out of curiosity has anyone ever tried the "green juice"? It was popular a while back. Might be showing my age here...

[Ashleigh28]

I can say I notice a difference with B12 but its not immediate, it wasn't until I stopped taking it that I noticed it, now its part of my morning regime.

But I totally suggest talking to your doctor. I use to be hella into supplements, trying to self medicate and had a really rough reaction to HTP-5. Over the counter drugs are still that, drugs!

[~Christina]

Definatly ask your Doctor to run some blood work ... When I first got ill with Fibromyalgia I had a bizillion dollars worth of blood work done lol .. I was low on all B's, Vit D
Started on alot of suppliments per my doctors request .. Slowly I started showing a increase .. Its certainly not a quick fix ... Most of us dont get enough vitamins and minerals from our diet even if we try really hard .

Good Luck