Nutrition and bipolar disorder: a systematic review

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#humans #bipolar-disorder #diet #vitamins #micronutrients

Nutrition and bipolar disorder: a systematic review

Gabriel et al., 2023 | Nutr Neurosci | Systematic Review

Citation

Gabriel Fernanda C, Oliveira Manoela, ... Lafer Beny. Nutrition and bipolar disorder: a systematic review. Nutr Neurosci. 2023-Jul;26(7):637-651. doi:10.1080/1028415X.2022.2077031

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: Individuals with bipolar disorder (BD) have higher rates of unhealthy lifestyles and risk for medical comorbidities Research currently suggests that dietary factors may play a role in the development of depression and anxiety. Therefore, nutritional approaches are potential strategies for the treatment of BD. The aim of this review is to summarize the available evidence on nutrition and BD. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The paper was developed based on PRISMA 2020 guidelines. The search was conducted in Sep-2021 using PubMed and Cochrane Library, augmented by manually checked references lists. The search found 986 studies, of which 47 were included, combined with 13 from reference lists, totaling 60 studies. RESULTS: There were 33 observational trials, of which 15 focused on fatty acids, 9 on micronutrients, 5 on specific foods, 4 on macro and micronutrients. The 27 interventional studies mainly focused on fatty acids, micronutrients and N-acetylcysteine (NAC). DISCUSSION: Dietary intake or supplementation of unsaturated fatty acids, mainly Omega-3 seems to be associated with improved BD symptoms, along with seafood, folic acid and zinc. Studies found variable, mainly non-significant impacts of creatine, carnitine, vitamin D, inositol or NAC supplementation on BD. There are promising results associated with Coenzyme Q10 (Coq10) and probiotics. Taken together, these preliminary findings suggest that dietetic approaches might be included as part of BD treatment. Also considering the high risk of metabolic disorders in individuals with BD, they should be encouraged to choose healthy dietary lifestyles, including daily intake of fruits, vegetables, seafood and whole grains.

Key Findings

There were 33 observational trials, of which 15 focused on fatty acids, 9 on micronutrients, 5 on specific foods, 4 on macro and micronutrients. The 27 interventional studies mainly focused on fatty acids, micronutrients and N-acetylcysteine (NAC).

Outcomes Measured

  • anxiety
  • depression

Population

Field Value
Population bipolar disorder
Sample Size 986
Age Range See abstract
Condition anxiety

MeSH Terms

  • Humans
  • Bipolar Disorder
  • Diet
  • Vitamins
  • Micronutrients
  • Fatty Acids, Omega-3
  • Acetylcysteine

Evidence Classification

  • Level: Systematic Review
  • Publication Types: Systematic Review, Journal Article
  • Vertical: coq10

Provenance

Source extracted via PubMed E-utilities API on 2026-04-09