Lithium is a drug that's used to treat manic depression, also called bipolar disorder. It affects the central nervous system and helps to control moods. The prescription medicine also is used to treat cluster headaches and neutropenia. Side effects can be serious especially if you have weight issues and are trying to lose weight. Weight gain is a significant side effect of lithium and other drugs used to treat bipolar disorder, according to the National Association on Mental Illness. Because of this side effect, many patients stop taking the medication, which can lead to manic behavior and depression. Additionally, excessive weight gain can lead to type 2 diabetes and heart disease. By experimenting with the dosage, the weight gain, water retention and gastrointestinal difficulties that sometimes occur can be reduced. According to the National Association on Mental Illness, doctors often try various dosage amounts and monitor the results through blood tests. Hypothyroidism is a result of incorrect dosages, which also causes weight gain and can be controlled by changing the prescription.

Doctors also may reduce the risk of weight gain by combining the lithium regimen with other mood-stabilizing drugs such as Depakote, which may allow the lithium dosage to be reduced. Because of the possible weight gain, people taking lithium must pay particular attention to their diet and exercise regimen. According to the National Association on Mental Illness, doctors should monitor patents' weight weekly to prevent excessive weight gain. In order to maintain a healthy weight, you must be very careful to take in fewer calories than you burn and monitor your own weight. Let your doctor know if you continue to gain weight despite your efforts to follow a weight-loss diet. A drug called topiramate can alleviate bipolar symptoms while helping patients to lose weight. Taken instead of lithium and combined with a healthy diet and exercise program, the drug may provide relief for bipolar patients who need to lose weight, according to the Western Psychiatric Institute and Clinic. In addition to overall weight loss, topiramate also reduces total body mass, leading to improved overall health.

How to Lose Weight on Lithium Weight gain is a problematic side effect for many patients who take Lithium. Unfortunately, it is unclear as to why this is. One theory is that Lithium alters the endocrine system, which results in a lowered metabolic rate. This causes the body to burn fewer calories than when it is at a normal level. Another theory is that Lithium works to raise serotonin levels in the brain, which increases appetite. Approximately 75% of people who take Lithium will experience side effects. To understand that weight gain is a possibility and to make a plan of action ahead of time is the best way to maintain a healthy weight while taking Lithium. Discuss concerns about weight gain with the prescribing doctor. Lithium tends to cause weight gain at higher doses. Work with the doctor to take the lowest dose possible. Learn his experience with the drug and whether or not weight gain has been common among patients he has treated. Add colorful fresh fruits, vegetables and lean protein to daily meals.

At the same time, reduce simple carbohydrates and sugar. It's still important to consume carbohydrates for the fiber and grains; make sure they are whole wheat carbohydrates. Start recording the food and calories consumed each day. This may seem daunting at first, but it's a great way to see trends and where excess calories may be cut. There are several methods to recording calories. Some prefer a simple pen and notebook approach. There you list the food, amount eaten and calories consumed. Black Lace Dress Mission Impossible 2A user-friendly website for this is Spark People. Fly Fishing Reels AmazonThere are tools to set calorie goals, input daily food intake and record exercise for the day. Nypd T Shirts IrelandThe calorie information is included in their database.

Get out there and start moving. Not only is exercise a key component in health and weight loss, it is also a natural mood booster. A combination of cardio exercise and weight training is beneficial for losing and maintaining weight. A beginning exercise plan might encompass cardio exercise, such as walking or running 3 to 4 days per week for 45 minutes at a time. Full-body weight training should be done 1 to 2 days per week at a minimum. Make a plan and keep a consistent schedule for best results. Consume a minimum of eight glasses of water per day. This will reduce bloating and curb hunger. It's important to understand that in order to keep weight off or shed weight while taking Lithium, major lifestyle changes will need to be made in terms of diet and exercise. This can be difficult at first. Once new habits are formed, however, it will be easier and you will gain momentum. Do not discontinue use of Lithium or alter the dose without a doctor's approval. Patients taking Depakote and a number of other mood stabilizers often experience associated weight gain.

Physicians, psychiatrists and pharmaceutical companies are ... The prescription drug prednisone reduces inflammation and treats a variety of conditions, such as arthritis and polymyositis. Although effective, weight gain is... Lipotropic Injections are an alternative method to the traditional liposuction procedure. The injection is composed of vitamin B-6 and vitamin B-12. This Is the Beauty Routine of Brooke Wolin, Brand Partnerships Manager How to Lose Weight Fast: 10 Lbs in 10 Days How to Lose Weight Lifting Weight What Are Side Effects of Lithium Withdrawal? Foods That Are a Natural Source of Lithium Weight Lifting for Fat LossLithium, also known as Eskalith, is a prescription medication used to treat bipolar disorder. Bipolar disorder, which is also known as manic depression, is characterized by extreme manic or depressive moods. Weight gain is a known side effect for lithium. However, you can control weight gain with the proper mix of diet and exercise.