Formerly known as manic depression, bipolar disorder is a mental disorder causing unusual shifts in moods and energy levels to the extent that they affect the daily routine. Depression caused due to this mental disorder is called bipolar depression. Bipolar disorder could be due to both, genetic as well as environmental factors. So, apart from treating the disorder using medical and psychological intervention, following dietary tips can help effectively cope with the disease.

Curb refined sugar
Blood sugar is directly associated with mood swings due to bipolar disorder. The carbohydrate-rich food we eat breaks down into glucose that is used as energy by the body. Feeding on refined sugar from candies, aerated drinks, and baked goods creates an imbalance in blood glucose level, which can uneven the mood. This is counterproductive in case of bipolar disorder. Dieticians recommend relying on natural foods such as fruits to curb sugar cravings and keeping bipolar disorder symptoms at bay.

Eat more omega-3 fats
Cold water fish such as salmon, herring, and mackerel are rich in omega-3 fatty acids. Healthcare experts believe that including foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids can decrease bouts of depression due to bipolar disorder. This is because omega-3 fatty acid contains eicosapentaenoic acid that repairs the brain’s neuronal connections, which balances serotonin levels in the body, thereby regulating the mood. For people who cannot eat fish can get their daily dose of omega-3 fatty acids from other food sources like flaxseeds, walnuts, chia seeds, and plant oils such as soybean oil and canola oil.

Magnesium-rich foods
It is a nutrient known to maintain steady heart rhythm and normal muscle function. However, having magnesium can play a significant role in controlling bipolar depression, and it is one of the major diet tips. Healthcare experts have observed that it has a chemical similarity with medications used as mood stabilizers and to control symptoms of depression. Bipolar disorder also affects the sleep due to unusual mood fluctuations. Magnesium helps in regulating sleep patterns, which is crucial in the management of the condition. Some magnesium-rich foods include pumpkin seeds, almonds, boiled spinach, peanuts, and cashews.

Cut down caffeine
It is one of the major food triggers for bipolar disorder. Excess caffeine can put a person with this disorder into a manic state. This uplift can worsen mood fluctuations, thereby worsening the bouts of depression. Some caffeinated drinks include flavored soda, tea, coffee, and energy drinks. It is important to steer clear from sugary caffeinated drinks as they can be a double whammy on bipolar disorder symptoms.

Eat more healthy fats
This is one of the crucial diet tips for bipolar depression one must take note of. Foods containing “good fats” like monosaturated and polysaturated fats are not only good for the heart, but they also help in regulating the mood. Healthy fats also prevent one from binging on unhealthy snacks as they help them feel satiated for longer.