OMEGA 3

OMEGA]The Baylor College of Medicine, Mood Disorders Center is performing a new study. This study is designed to test "the prophylactic efficacy of omega-3 fatty acids in patients with unstable bipolar disorder." This is yet another of many tests which have been run studying the effect of substantial Omega3 supplements for bipolar patients. I read a number of them, and after satisfying myself that perhaps where there was smoke there might be at least heat, I researched supplements on the internet until I found one with a good ratio of EPA to DHA that was manufactured from pure concentrations ofcold water fish high in EPA under NNFA Good Manufacturing Practices by a reputable company.

At the time, I had been in a severe depressive cycle for approximately seven months despite all changes to medication. I was taking enough antidepressant to make most bipolars swing from a chandelier -- myself in particular --. (Specifically, I was taking Effexor 225mg, Wellbutrin 150mg, Topamax 200mg. Geodon 80mg, Concerta 110mg; thyroxin 88mg one day and 100mg the other, alternating days, Premarin .625) It had been starting to lift due to some changes being made with the thyroid hormone. However, in approximately six days I started to feel a little better and this improved gradually until I worked myself completely to a level and stable mood. I am a rapid cycler, and it was very unusual for me to have been in a depressed state for seven months. I believe finding that my thyroid was deficient would explain the longlasting depression. Once the levels reached a midnormal level, I felt fine and started to forget the Omega 3 in the morning. It was easy to forget because I wasn't thinking of "maybe this will help". Taking it was like taking a vitamin. It was in a separate bottle; it was not in my pill box with my other medications because the pills are so large. Having stabilized I started feeling TOO good and began rapid cycling...that went on for five weeks. I began backing off the Effexor but not fast enough, I became manic. I was completely off the Effexor by then. After five days of the mania, I began taking Abilify an antipsychotic which manages dopamine. The mania came under control and I am once again in a level stable state. I began taking the Omega 3 two weeks ago. I am wondering if it can replace some of the large amount of medicine that I take. If so, it would be nice. But my thought goes further than that. It appears that Omega 3 is also beneficial to cardiovascular health and joint & immune support.

A couple Yale doctors got together and started a company called Cenestra Health. Their site has one of the best summaries of current research on Omega 3 benefits that I found. You can find the research portion at http://www.omax3.com/research.html.

I am just passing this on to any of you out there who may find this of interest.