Bipolar disease, also called manic-depressive disorder, is a mood disorder that causes mood swings that range from lows of depression to the highs of mania. Mood swings may occur only a few times a year or as often as several times a day. Some patients with bipolar experience symptoms of depression and mania at the same time. Certain dietary modifications can help you manage symptoms of bipolar disease.
Whole Grains, Fruits and Vegetables
Simple carbohydrates such as table sugar and corn syrup are not recommended for patients with bipolar because they cause sudden spikes and drops in blood sugar levels, which lead to increased mood swings. If you have bipolar disease, you should eat a diet rich in whole grains, lean proteins, fruits and vegetables to help reduce mood swings, according to Foodforthebrain.org. Whole grains, lean proteins, fruits and vegetables contain fiber, which helps stabilize blood sugar levels.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids and Bipolar Disease
Omega-3 unsaturated fatty acids may help improve symptoms of bipolar disease. The brain contains omega-3 fatty acids, which help build the receptor sites for neurotransmitters needed to prevent symptoms of bipolar disease. The more omega-3 fatty acids you have in your blood, the more neurotransmitters you make, according to Foodforthebrain.org. Sources of omega-3 fatty acids include fish oil, fatty fish such as sardines, tuna, mackerel, salmon, halibut, herring, cod liver, flaxseeds, soybean oil and canola oil.
Lifestyle Changes
If you have bipolar disorder, regular exercise and adequate sleep can help reduce mood swings and other symptoms of the disease. Physical exercise for at least 30 minutes per day helps improve mood because working out releases endorphins or brain chemicals, which help make you feel good, according to MayoClinic.com. Adequate sleep can also help improve your mood. If you have trouble sleeping, you should consult your doctor.
Bipolar Disease Symptoms
Bipolar disease causes symptoms of depression and mania. During the depressive phase of bipolar disease, you may experience symptoms such as hopelessness, sadness, fatigue, loss of interest in daily activities, irritability, problems concentrating, sleep problems, anxiety, confusion, increased or decreased appetite, chronic pain and suicidal thoughts. During the manic phase of bipolar disease, you may use poor judgment; have racing thoughts, rapid speech, inflated self-esteem, increased sex drive and decreased need for sleep; be agitated; and exhibit aggressive behavior, according to MayoClinic.com.
