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Is Bipolar Disorder Really a Diet Problem w/ Dr. Iain Campbell

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Jul 30, 2025

Guest

Iain Campbell

Dr. Iain Campbell, a researcher at the University of Edinburgh and someone living with bipolar disorder, offers unique insights into the connection between metabolic health and psychiatric conditions. He discusses how symptoms of bipolar disorder might originate from physical causes rather than just the brain. The conversation covers the potential of ketogenic diets to influence mood, the role of sleep and inflammation in mental health, and why understanding underlying metabolic processes is crucial for effective treatment.

01:29:58

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ANECDOTE

Iain Campbell's Bipolar Journey

Iain Campbell shared his personal struggle with bipolar type 2, including severe depression and suicidal ideation.
He described how periods of hypomania allowed creativity but maintaining stability was a lifelong challenge.

insights

INSIGHT

Metabolic Roots of Mental Illness

Bipolar disorder and other psychiatric conditions stem from an underlying metabolic disruption affecting brain energy.
Treating the metabolic root can resolve downstream neurotransmitter imbalances and symptoms.

insights

INSIGHT

Seasonal and Circadian Dysregulation

Bipolar disorder symptoms follow seasonal patterns linked to circadian and metabolic regulation.
Modern disruptions like artificial lighting and diet disturb these ancient energy regulation mechanisms.

Get the Snipd Podcast app to discover more snips from this episode

Reassessing Psychiatry: A Metabolic Perspective

03:39 • 25min

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Understanding Bipolar Disorder Through Metabolic Pathways

28:40 • 4min

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Beyond Symptoms: Understanding Bipolar Disorder

32:13 • 16min

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Historical and Biological Insights on Mental Illness

48:30 • 10min

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The Link Between Metabolic and Mental Health

58:40 • 8min

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Metabolic Psychiatry: Bridging Nutrition and Mental Health

01:06:12 • 18min

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Rethinking Mental Health: A Functional Medicine Approach

01:24:37 • 7min

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On this episode of The Dr. Hyman Show, we’re exploring the emerging science of metabolic psychiatry. My guest, Dr. Iain Campbell, is a researcher at the University of Edinburgh and someone who has lived with bipolar disorder himself. He brings a rare dual perspective as both a scientist and a patient to this critical conversation. Together, we discuss what’s really driving psychiatric conditions like bipolar disorder and why a systems-based approach may hold the key to meaningful recovery.

Catch our full conversation on YouTube here - https://youtu.be/YCcZb2H2Ceg

We unpack: • What it means when mental health symptoms start in the body—not just the brain • How to tell if metabolism, sleep, or inflammation are driving your mood swings • Why seasonal changes impact energy and mood, and how you can stay steady year-round • When keto might help where meds haven’t, and what to know before trying it • How to catch metabolic red flags before they affect your mental health When we shift how we see mental health, real healing becomes possible. There are answers, and this episode can help you find them. View Show Notes From This Episode

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