Bipolar disorder is also known as manic-depression and characterized by extreme, unusual shifts in energy, activity levels and mood that interfere with your ability to function normally. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, symptoms develop gradually and often appear before age 25. Bipolar disorder is treatable, generally through long-term psychotherapy and medications. A healthy diet, limited in certain foods, may support management of the disease and help prevent obesity, heart disease and other potential complications.
Enriched Flour
Enriched flour, whether white or wheat, is considered high-glycemic because it can impact your blood sugar levels significantly. According to research published in the "Journal of Affective Disorders" in 2010, limiting enriched flour products may improve symptoms of bipolar disorder. In the study, the dietary habits of women between ages 20 and 93 -- some with bipolar disorder and others with no history of a psychological disorder -- were examined. The women with bipolar disorder consumed a higher-glycemic diet than the women without. In addition, the more high-glycemic foods women consumed, the greater her chances became of developing severe bipolar symptoms. To reap potentially similar benefits, choose low-glycemic carbohydrate sources, such as whole grains, over enriched breads, pasta and snack foods, most often. Because enriched flour products are less filling than fiber-rich alternatives, limiting them may also enhance appetite control and weight management.
Added Sugars
Added sugars are foods that contribute sweet flavor and calories, but little fiber or nutrients, to foods. Added sugars are also high in the glycemic index. Thus, avoiding foods rich in added sugars, such as soft drinks, candy, cakes, cookies, pastries, pies, frozen desserts, pancake syrup, jam and jelly, may help reduce your symptoms. Dr. Wes Burgess, author of "The Bipolar Handbook: Real-Life Questions with Up-to-Date Answers," recommends limiting added sugars, particularly if you feel they trigger hyper energy, edginess or manic behavior. For best results, replace added sugar sources with naturally sweet foods, such as fresh, frozen or dried fruit, fruit salad or whole grain baked goods sweetened with applesauce or non-nutritive sweeteners. Common sources of added sugars include cane sugar, corn syrup, honey, brown sugar, dextrose, maltose and cane juice. Because people vary in their response to added sugars, Burgess recommends seeking guidance from your doctor or dietitian.
Saturated Fat
A diet rich in saturated fat increases your risk for high cholesterol, diabetes, obesity and heart disease. Because bipolar disorder also increases your risk for these conditions, according to the National Institute of Mental Health, replacing saturated fat with healthy alternatives, such as plant-based oils, avocados, nuts and seeds, is important. Common sources of saturated fat include red meat, organ meats, bacon, sausage, egg yolks, butter, whole milk, heavy cream and high-fat cheeses. Avoid high-fat cooking methods, such as deep-frying, for additional benefits.
References
- National Institute of Mental Health: Bipolar Disorder
- "Journal of Affective Disorders"; Diet Quality in Bipolar Disorder in a Population-Based Sample of Women; Felice N. Jacka et al.; 2010
- "The Bipolar Handbook: Real-Life Questions with Up-to-Date Answers"; Wes Burgess, M.D., Ph.d.; 2006
