What Foods Should Bipolar Children Avoid?

Bipolar disorder is an illness characterized by periods of extreme excitability, or mania, and intermittent depression. Children with the disorder often experience severe, unpredictable mood swings that make normal functioning difficult. While healthy eating is vital for all children with bipolar disorder, according to Tracy Anglada and Sheryl Hakala, authors of "The Childhood Bipolar Disorder Answer Book," it improves symptoms significantly in some children but not at all in others. For best results, seek specified guidance from a qualified health care professional.

Saturated Fat

Saturated fat is an unnecessary fat source that when consumed in excess causes increased risk for high blood pressure, weight gain, type 2 diabetes and heart disease. Avoiding saturated is important for children with bipolar disorder since these conditions are potential complications of the disorder, according to the National Institute of Mental Health. Consuming excessive saturated fat also leaves less room for healthy fat sources, such as omega-3 fatty acids, which promote brain function and may help manage your child's symptoms. Common sources of saturated fat include red meat, organ meats, poultry fat, egg yolks, butter, whole milk and whole milk products, such as high-fat cheeses, milkshakes and ice cream.

Added Sugars

Added sugars, such as table sugar, brown sugar, corn syrup and honey, contribute sweet flavor, but few nutrients, to foods. While added sugars do not cause bipolar disorder, they may exacerbate symptoms by disturbing blood sugar levels or heightening manic episodes, according to Anglada and Hakala. Excessive sugar intake can also heighten your child's risk for type 2 diabetes and tooth decay. For best results, encourage your child to eat fresh fruit or applesauce in place of candy and other sweets regularly and encourage modest portion sizes. Avoid or limit foods and beverages particularly rich in added sugars. These items include regular soft drinks, candy, chocolates, fruit punch, jelly, jam, pancake syrup and commercially-prepared cookies, brownies, cakes, pies, pastries, sweetened cold cereals and granola bars.

Enriched Flour

Like added sugars, foods based upon enriched flour can have a detrimental impact on your child's blood sugar levels and moods. Enriched breads, pasta and cereals also contain fewer nutrients, fiber and protein than complex carbohydrate sources, such as whole grains. Many enriched flour products also contain gluten---a protein found in wheat, barley and rye. While it hasn't been scientifically proven, according to Anglada and Hakala, some parents report improved bipolar symptoms after eliminating gluten from their child's diet. For best results, limit or restrict breads, bagels, English muffins, pasta, tortillas, cereals and baked goods that list enriched flour, rather than whole grains, within the top ingredients.