Mood swings--feeling great one minute and low the next--can have many causes, including chemical imbalances in the body, stressful situations at home or simply being tired. People who have mood swings caused by bipolar disorder, depression or other serious medical conditions may be required to take prescription medications to control their mood swings. There are several natural ways in which people who experience swift mood changes (not related to diagnosed mental illness) can help themselves without resorting to medication use.
Exercise
A regular exercise routine can be a natural way to help control mood swings, according to Overcome Depression, a UK-based information resource for people who cope with depression. When people exercise, their bodies release a chemical called endorphins, which help elevate the mood naturally. Scheduling a daily walk around the neighborhood can be an ideal way to relax after a busy day and help take the edge off a low mood.
Maintain Blood Sugar
Maintaining appropriate blood sugar levels can help steady mood swings without the need for medication. Too much glucose in the system after a large meal may cause a "sugar high" and a rush of energy. When blood sugar levels dip, people often feel tired and shaky, which can lead to irritability and the inevitable "crash" of a good mood. Eating frequent, small snacks throughout the day can help stabilize blood sugar levels and prevent the highs and lows that ensue. Including high-fiber choices gives people a long-lasting energy throughout the day as well.
Make Dietary Changes
A person who experiences mood swings may be able to help himself by adjusting his diet and lifestyle. Cutting out caffeine may bring about a calming effect on the mood, as Overcome Depression reports that many people who drink caffeinated beverages tend to feel agitated, nervous or "revved up" from the stimulant. Including moderate amounts of chocolate may also help stabilize mood, according to researchers at the University of Arizona College of Medicine. One of the chemical components of chocolate is a chemical called phenylethylamine. Phenylethylamine is a substance produced in the body and regulates moods. Adding the chemical through the consumption of chocolate can be an enjoyable way to help control mood swings.
Increase Sun Exposure
Help even out your mood swings by increasing your exposure to sunlight. The Mayo Clinic explains that light therapy is a treatment method for seasonal affective disorder (SAD), a form of depression that strikes people most often during the winter, when daylight hours are shortened. Prolonged exposure to light sources, both natural and artificial, alters the biochemical reaction in the brain and can help improve moods. Be sure to practice sun protection with sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat when outside.
Sleep
Stop the constant ups and downs of mood swings by getting enough sleep each night. Feeling tired makes everyday tasks much more challenging, which can translate into an unpleasant mood swing very quickly, reports Overcome Depression. Aim for eight hours of sleep each night and adjust as needed. Charting both mood swings and hours of nightly rest can be a useful tool to determine if a person is getting as much rest as she needs.
