According to the National Institute of Mental Health, or NIMH, bipolar disorder is a mental illness that causes severe changes in mood, energy level and activity levels. Individuals with bipolar disorder can experience periods of severe depression, alternating with periods of high energy, called mania. Experts at the NIMH note that body functions such as thyroid and blood sugar levels can influence mood swings, so patients with bipolar illness are often advised to eat well-balanced meals on a very regular schedule.
Diagnosis of Bipolar Illness
According to the NIMH, bipolar illness is frequently diagnosed after a serious episode of mania or depression. A doctor will take a full medical history and do blood tests and brain scans to rule out health problems such a stroke or brain tumors. A mental health professional will typically take a very detailed history of the symptoms in order to determine if the depression or mania are following a cyclical pattern common to bipolar illness. There is no specific medical test for bipolar illness, and it is, instead, diagnosed by careful observation of mood changes.
Risk Factors for Bipolar Illness
The NIMH notes that genetics likely play a role in the development of bipolar illness, and there is current research underway to identify a bipolar gene that may predispose individuals to the illness. Researchers are also finding that brain structure can influence bipolar illness. While research is still inconclusive, scientists do see some common structural elements in the brains of people with mood disorders.
Nutrition and Bipolar Illness
Researchers at the Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance, or DBSA, have concluded that diet and nutrition are very important to the treatment of bipolar disorder. Experts at the DBSA note that the correct intake of vitamins, minerals and amino and fatty acids is important for patients who want to stabilize mood and energy levels. Patients should avoid eating foods that contain stimulants such as chocolate or sugar, as they stimulate the nervous system and cause an elevation in energy and mood. Likewise, drinking alcohol or caffeine is not advised, because these drinks can also contribute to mood disturbances. The Mayo Clinic notes that current studies show that vitamin B-12 may alleviate and control depression, so many experts also advise that patients take B-12 supplements.
Dieting and Bipolar Illness
Experts at the DBSA note that dieting can also cause mood disturbances in bipolar patients. Patients that cut certain foods, such as fat, out of their diets can experience an imbalance in nutrients that eventually lead to an imbalance in moods. Patients are encouraged to seek the support of a nutritionist to create a health, well-balanced meal and exercise plan.
Monitoring Nutrition and Mood
Doctors from the DBSA also advise patients to track their diet and exercise in a journal. This will help patients note any significant links between food intake and mood. Patients may discover that they have strong reactions to alcohol or caffeine, and may eventually decide to cut these out of their diets. Doctors also note that proper water intake is very important for patients who take medications for bipolar illness, and patients are advised to drink at least 64 oz. of water each day. Doctors note that careful tracking of nutrition and exercise can help patients develop an effective mood management strategy.
