Bipolar Disorder Diet
Bipolar Disorder diet refers to group of foods which helps in improving the symptoms of disease that is characterized as maniac depression and is mostly identified by swings in mood, energy and activity levels. This condition can be treated with medication and psychotherapy. A well-balanced diet can help in avoiding the symptoms of this condition and to prevent the weight gain mainly associated with disease.
Bipolar Disorder Diet: Foods That Work
- Omega -3 Fatty Acids: Health experts suggest that fish and fish oil are good for brain health and they are also known to affect the behaviors. Fishes are rich source of omega-3 fatty acids and they are known as good mood enhancers. Various clinical studies suggest that fatty fishes are also good for people suffering from bipolar disorder if they are at the stake of contracting cardiovascular disease or stand the fair chance of elevated triglycerides. The good fish choices includes trout, herring, albacore tuna, mackerel, and salmon.
- Magnesium: Magnesium mimics the mood stabilizing effects of lithium, so it is highly recommended during the treatment of bipolar disorder. Also, the magnesium induces good sleeping patterns which may aid people suffering from bipolar disorder. Magnesium is also known to inhibit the excess entry of calcium into the cells. Legumes, whole grains, and greens are the best sources of magnesium.
- Proteins: Amino acids and zinc found in most of the protein rich foods are known to improve the brain function and balance the blood sugar. It is highly recommended to include the high –quality proteins like lean meats, fish, and low fat dairy products into the diet to alleviate the symptoms of bipolar disorder.
- Complex carbohydrates: They are mostly suggested over the refined carbs because they can correct blood sugar imbalances and curb mood swings. But health experts are very specific about recommending them and suggest that they should be consumed in very optimum amounts. Whole grain breads, wild rice, whole grains, popcorn, barley and oats are some of the healthy sources of complex carbohydrates and are suitable to be included into the bipolar disorder diet.
Foods to Avoid While Following Bipolar Disorder Diet
Limited or no intake of certain foods is known to help while following the nutrition therapy to inhibit the symptoms of bipolar disorder.
- Saturated Fats: They induce various health risks like obesity, cardiovascular disease, high cholesterol etc. The bipolar disorder also increases the severity of these diseases, so it is highy recommended to stay from them while undergoing nutrition therapy to curb the bipolar disorder.
- Enriched Flour: They have high glycemic index which can impact the blood sugar levels and thereby cause mood swings. According to the Journal of Affective Disorders limiting the foods rich in enriched flour may help in alleviating the symptoms of bipolar disorder.