According to the National Institute of Mental Health more than 5 million people suffer each year from bipolar disorder. Bipolar disorder is a mental illness characterized by extreme shifts in mood. Common emotions can quickly become intensified and magnified by someone suffering from bipolar disorder. In addition to therapy and medication, a healthy diet can help to treat the symptoms of bipolar disorder.
Basics of a Bipolar Diet
Following a healthy diet can help reduce the symptoms of bipolar disorder. Diet should be looked at as a step in the treatment process but not the only treatment method. You should still seek medical attention and consult your doctor about setting up the best diet plan. The basics of a healthy bipolar diet are similar to the basics outlined by the U.S. Department of Agriculture for overall health. A diet to treat bipolar disorder should be well balanced, be primarily plant based and include components from each food group. Other aspects of wellness include getting plenty of sleep and regular physical activity. All of these things combined can help reduce your stress and promote feelings of relaxation.
Serotonin Foods and Depression
One aspect of bipolar disorder is experiencing phases of depression. If this is common for you, consider incorporating foods that will boost your serotonin levels when you begin to feel symptoms. Typically your serotonin levels are low when depression occurs and increasing your levels can help reduce the feeling of depression. To increase your levels, eat foods like pineapple, tomatoes, avocado, walnuts and bananas.
Magnesium and Mania
When experiencing bouts of mania, you'll want to avoid increased serotonin foods. Typically, serotonin levels are higher when mania occurs. To help treat mania, try increasing your magnesium intake. Magnesium is a mineral that is important to a healthy immune system and strong body. In addition, it also has similarities to drug lithium, commonly used to treat bipolar disorder. Magnesium-rich foods include black beans, peanuts, scallops, broccoli, spinach and whole grains.
Protein Foods
Protein is an important part of a well-balanced diet and should not be left out if following a primarily plant-based eating plan. The amino acids found in protein sources can help promote blood sugar control and healthy brain function. In particular, foods high in omega-3 fatty acids help to support brain function. Omega-3 fatty acids are commonly used to treat mental illnesses like depression, schizophrenia, attention deficit disorder and bipolar disorder. The most common sources of omega-3 fatty acids are found in fish, plants, nuts and nut oils.
