The Hidden Link Between Bipolar Disorder and Metabolism with Dr. Iain Campbell, PhD

Many people with bipolar disorder report profound improvements in energy, mood, and sleep after starting ketogenic therapy. In this conversation, Dr. Iain Campbell, a researcher and early adopter of ketogenic therapy for bipolar II, joins Metabolic Mind's Hannah Warren to explore how metabolism, circadian rhythms, and psychiatric symptoms are deeply intertwined. Dr. Campbell shares his personal journey with bipolar disorder and explains why metabolic dysfunction may underlie many of the symptoms experienced by those living with serious mental illness. Together, he and Hannah introduce Metabolic Mind's THINK+SMART framework: a holistic model for integrating ketogenic therapy with lifestyle interventions like sleep optimization, sunlight exposure, and morning exercise. This interview covers: Why conventional advice (like “just exercise more”) often falls short for people with bipolar disorder The role of mitochondria and brain energy in mood stability How ketogenic therapy can unlock the benefits of other mental health interventions The science behind circadian rhythm disruptions in bipolar disorder Practical strategies to support sleep and energy, even before starting a ketogenic diet Whether you're new to metabolic therapies or already exploring nutritional ketosis, this video offers insight, hope, and tools for improving mental health. Watch the full conversation now to learn how small lifestyle changes—and the right fuel for your brain—can make a big difference. Expert Featured: Dr. Iain Campbell, PhD X: @IainCampbellPhD https://www.metabolicpsychiatryhub.com/ Resources Mentioned: Learn more about the THINK+SMART framework here: https://thinksmart.metabolicmind.org/ Follow our channel for more information and education from Bret Scher, MD, FACC, including interviews with leading experts in Metabolic Psychiatry. Learn more about metabolic psychiatry and find helpful resources at https://metabolicmind.org/ About us: Metabolic Mind is a non-profit initiative of Baszucki Group working to transform the study and treatment of mental disorders by exploring the connection between metabolism and brain health. We leverage the science of metabolic psychiatry and personal stories to offer education, community, and hope to people struggling with mental health challenges and those who care for them. Our channel is for informational purposes only. We are not providing individual or group medical or healthcare advice nor establishing a provider-patient relationship. Many of the interventions we discuss can have dramatic or potentially dangerous effects if done without proper supervision. Consult your healthcare provider before changing your lifestyle or medications. Timestamps: 0:00 - Meet Dr. Iain Campbell, PhD 2:13 - The THINK+SMART framework 4:50 - Ketogenic therapies for mental wellness 7:20 - The SMART in THINK+SMART 10:53 - Circadian rhythms and sleep’s role in mental wellness 15:16 - How ketosis aids in deep, quality sleep 19:20 - Tracking sleep 20:43 - Metabolic Psychiatry Hub and the study of sleep 22:00 - Timing meals for quality sleep 23:46 - Blue light blockers 25:45 - Challenges and opportunities to expand sleep research 28:00 - Creating community around the bipolar experience