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Dr. Bob is Robert Hsiung, MD,
bob@dr-bob.orgShown: posts 1 to 6 of 6. This is the beginning of the thread.
Posted by SheilaC on June 27, 2010, at 11:43:07
Does Lithium really cause weight gain or does it cause water retention (edema)? I feel bloated after taking Lithium. I am trying to exercise and drink more water. I don't use salt on my food.
Does Lithium cause water retention?
Posted by Phillipa on June 27, 2010, at 12:32:45
In reply to Water weight w/Lithium?, posted by SheilaC on June 27, 2010, at 11:43:07
Dont know but isn't it a salt? But I think you need fluids and salt. Leaving for experts. Phillipa
Posted by morganator on June 27, 2010, at 13:13:03
In reply to Water weight w/Lithium?, posted by SheilaC on June 27, 2010, at 11:43:07
How long did you take Lithium the first time? This may be an effects that lessens with time.
As far as reducing water retention/bloating, I think exercise is your best bet. Also, you may want to avoid drinking too much coffee and black tea. And definitely avoid alcohol and cigarettes(I'm sure one alcoholic beverage here and there won't hurt. It may actually be good for you). Vitamins A and C may help as well(I recomend taking a good multi and adding a little extra C-there should be plenty of vitamin A in the multi. I also just read that taking a probiotic or eating a good quality yogurt may help.
Here's a good website for a water-retention reducing diet:
Posted by SheilaC on June 27, 2010, at 17:26:34
In reply to Re: Water weight w/Lithium? » SheilaC, posted by morganator on June 27, 2010, at 13:13:03
> How long did you take Lithium the first time? This may be an effects that lessens with time.
>
> As far as reducing water retention/bloating, I think exercise is your best bet. Also, you may want to avoid drinking too much coffee and black tea. And definitely avoid alcohol and cigarettes(I'm sure one alcoholic beverage here and there won't hurt. It may actually be good for you). Vitamins A and C may help as well(I recomend taking a good multi and adding a little extra C-there should be plenty of vitamin A in the multi. I also just read that taking a probiotic or eating a good quality yogurt may help.
>
> Here's a good website for a water-retention reducing diet:
>
> http://www.google.com/url?sa=t&source=web&cd=1&ved=0CBUQFjAA&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.annecollins.com%2Fwater-retention-diet.htm&ei=x5EnTKPNGcKAlAeq7P2lAw&usg=AFQjCNGeoUloCpaClutsYorXWNHRlBkLew&sig2=GHcYZDraWZsIAFbzk3BhLwWhy is it back to drink coffee or black tea while taking lithium? I usually only drink 1 cup of coffee in the morning and am trying to drink more water.
Posted by morganator on June 27, 2010, at 19:05:00
In reply to Re: Water weight w/Lithium?, posted by SheilaC on June 27, 2010, at 17:26:34
Coffee and caffeine usually are not good for anyone with bipolar. I'm sure one cup in the morning is not a big deal. Have you tried switching to a good quality decaf?
I have read that coffee can decrease lithium levels. But if you felt o.k. when taking lithium before and you were still drinking one cup of coffee in the morning, I'm sure you are good.
These are very small prices to pay for feeling better and living fuller lives in my opinion.
Posted by Phillipa on June 27, 2010, at 20:45:40
In reply to Re: Water weight w/Lithium? » SheilaC, posted by morganator on June 27, 2010, at 19:05:00
I've not read that. Interesting Phillipa
This is the end of the thread.
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