Bipolar disorder, also known as manic depression, causes debilitating mood swings that range from manic highs to depressive lows. Lithium, benzodiazepines and atypical anti-psychotics are standard prescription medication to manage symptoms. Changes in lifestyle can stop behavioral habits that worsen your symptoms such as smoking, drinking and stressful activities. A diet with fish oil and folic acid will help improve cognitive function in the brain and help reduce side effects of medication. Talk to your doctor before changing your diet.
Bipolar Symptoms
The characteristics and severity of symptoms differ in individuals with the bipolar. There are three subtypes of bipolar disorder in the spectrum; they are bipolar I, bipolar II and cyclothemia. The manic phase characteristics include euphoria, restlessness, overconfidence, impulsive behavior and frequent absences from work or school. Signs and symptoms of a depressive episode are sadness, oversleeping or insomnia, guilt, fatigue, and inability to concentrate. Although it is less common, psychosis can occur during a severe bout of depression or mania. Psychosis includes hallucinations and delusions. Voluntary or involuntary hospitalization during a psychotic break is crucial for recovery of the patient, as it provides a safe environment.
Fish Oil Sources and Effects
Fish oil contains omega-3 fatty acids and is high in vitamins A and D. To add fish oil to your diet, eat fish rich in omega-3 such as salmon, halibut and tuna. The American Heart Association recommends you eat fatty fish at least twice a week. The University of Maryland Medical Center reports a clinical study of 30 bipolar patients that took fish oil with standard medication. They experienced fewer relapses and mood swings than patients placed on placebo. This study is inconclusive, conversely, UMMC report another study of the same duration that found fish oils did not reduce symptoms.
Folic Acid Sources & Effects
Folic acid is part of the B vitamin group, known as vitamin B9. Incorporate green vegetables, dry beans, fruits nuts and peas to your diet to obtain folic acid. Jane Collingwood of Psychcentral.com wrote in 2010 that there is a strong link between bipolar disorder and folic acid; a deficiency of folic acid increases levels of homocysteine. However, there is a stronger link to depression and an increase of homocysteine than with bipolar disorder.
Considerations
Use dietary supplements if food sources provide an insufficient amount of folic acid and fish oil. Folic acid works best with other B vitamins particularly vitamin B12, try and incorporate both in your diet. Fish oil sources often contain mercury, which can cause poisoning. Eat fish low in mercury and mix up your diet regularly with highly nutritious food to incorporate other important vitamins to your diet. A nutritious diet helps with bipolar disorder but it cannot replace standard medication prescribed. Discuss your options with a doctor.
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