Bipolar disorders

Bipolar patients (as well as schizophrenics) have increased levels of antibodies against fungi (Saccharomyces cerevisiae and Candida albicans) that are naturally present in the gastrointestinal tract. The presence of a specific protein in the blood indicates that bacteria usually located in the intestines were able to migrate. Moreover, concentrations of anti- Saccharomyces cerevisiae antibodies are higher in treatment-naive patients than in those who are treated with antipsychotics. These observations strengthen the hypothesis of a link between disease and inflammation²⁶.

Is nutrition education an avenue to pursue?

Yes, without a doubt, according to some psychiatrists who rely on diet to reduce inflammation and restore gut microbiota balance²⁷. Actually, a link between Western diet (high intake of carbohydrates and fat) and a disruption of neural and inflammation activity has been demonstrated. On the contrary, Mediterranean diet is the example to follow: it could have a protective effect against bipolar disorders as well as depression. The same could be said of omega-3 intake.