Mental illnesses often respond well to changes in diet and physical activity. People who suffer from bipolar disorder will often experience an alleviation in some of their symptoms by monitoring what they eat. Bipolar disorder is characterized by intense emotions that range from euphoric to depressed, according to the National Institute of Mental Health. Medications and therapy are usually needed to control the condition, but dietary changes can provide treatment benefits as well.
Increase Omega 3 Consumption
Omega 3 fatty acids are a nutrient that support good brain health so increasing the foods that contain them can help control symptoms of bipolar disorder. According to Food for the Brain, bipolar disorder is the mental illness most often seen when there is a deficiency in omega 3s in the diet. In addition, incorporating foods rich in omega 3 fatty acids into the diet of a person with bipolar can result in a reduction of symptoms, including depression. Good food sources include salmon, mackerel, herring, walnuts and flaxseeds.
Avoid Food High in Tyramine
Some medications used to treat bipolar disorder interact negatively with tyramine, a common component of several types of food, according to Health Central. This can result in side effects, including diarrhea or headache, and can reduce the effectiveness of the prescription drug. Foods to avoid include sour cream, yogurt, game meat, canned meat, eggplant, sauerkraut, soy beans, avocados, raisins, beer and cola. Limiting the amount of these foods that you eat can reduce the chances of adverse effects from your medications and ensure that you are getting the most benefit from your treatment.
Maintain Healthy Blood Sugar
Blood sugar fluctuations can effect your mood, so eating more foods that contain sugars will often wreak havoc with your bipolar symptoms. Symptoms that indicate an unbalance in your blood sugar level include fatigue, dizziness, insomnia, sweating, thirst, depression, difficulty concentrating and blurred vision, reports Food for the Brain. Getting a handle on this situation will dramatically improve your symptoms and help you feel better. Avoid foods that contain refined sugars, refined carbohydrates and those that are processed.
Get More Magnesium
Food for the Brain reports that magnesium plays a comparative role to lithium for those with bipolar disorder. Lithium is one of the most commonly prescribed medications for treating this mental health condition. Magnesium is used by the body to stabilize mood as well as promoting healthy muscles, heart rhythm and immune system. A deficiency can result in tremors, spasms, irregular heartbeat and depression. Spinach, beans, peas, nuts, seeds and unrefined grains are foods that contain healthy amounts of magnesium.
