Manic depression, also known as bipolar disorder, is characterized by unusual shifts in energy, mood, activity levels, and the inability to manage daily tasks. Symptoms of bipolar disorder usually appear before the age of 25, according to the National Institutes of Mental Health. While it is generally treated with medication and psychotherapy, an improved diet may also be beneficial. Because bipolar disorder is a serious condition, it should always be treated by a qualified health care professional.
Calorie Control
A healthy, calorie-balanced diet is important for everyone, but people with bipolar disorder should be especially careful to watch their calorie intake. People with bipolar disorder are more likely to be obese than their non-bipolar counterparts, according to "Nutrition and Diagnosis-Related Care," a textbook by Sylvia Escott-Stump. In addition, they are more likely to accumulate fat around the abdomen, which is a risk factor for heart disease and diabetes. A punishing, restricted diet is usually not necessary. Weight control can be achieved by eating moderate portions of healthy, nutrient-dense foods and avoiding excess intake of fat, sugar and processed foods.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Found abundantly in cold-water fish such as salmon, sardines and mackerel, omega-3 fatty acids are critical for the health and development of the brain. According to an article in the "Journal of Affective Disorders," epidemiological studies have shown that bipolar disorder occurs less frequently in areas of the world where fish and seafood are dietary staples. The article describes a four-month study in which patients with bipolar disorder were given either omega-3 fatty acids or a placebo. Those who were given omega-3 fatty acids experienced a longer period of remission. Boosting your omega-3s with an extra serving or two of fish a week is a healthy choice, but if you are considering the use of omega-3 fatty acid supplements, talk to your doctor first. They may increase the risk of mania in bipolar patients.
Vitamins
An article by physician Jim Haggerty on the PsychCentral web site states that while no vitamins have been clinically shown to improve bipolar disorder. However, he notes that some may be beneficial for certain bipolar symptoms, in addition to generally boosting health and well-being. The B vitamins are necessary for mood regulation, and B vitamin deficiencies can increase fatigue and depression. Additionally, vitamin E is a powerful antioxidant that may be depleted in bipolar patients taking anticonvulsant medicines. These vitamins are readily available in a balanced diet based primarily on lean proteins, low-fat dairy products, fruits, vegetables, unprocessed grains and healthy fats.
Caffeine
Excess caffeine is contraindicated for people with bipolar disorder. It can exacerbate bipolar symptoms by causing anxiety and panic, and it can interfere with the normal sleep cycles that are helpful for bipolar patients to maintain. Additionally, caffeine may decrease the efficacy of certain drugs commonly used to treat bipolar disorder, according to the book "Coffee, Tea, Chocolate, and the Brain."
References
- "Journal of Affective Disorders"; Complementary and Alternative Medicine in the Treatment of Bipolar Disorder - A Review of the Evidence; C. Andreescu et al; Sept. 2008
- PsychCentral: Vitamins for Bipolar Disorder
- "Nutrition and Diagnosis-Related Care"; Sylvia Escott-Stump; 2007
- "Coffee, Tea, Chocolate, and the Brain"; Astrid Nehlig; 2004
- National Institute of Mental Health: Bipolar Disorder
