Dietary Tips to Manage Symptoms of Bipolar Disorder

Dietary Tips to Manage Symptoms of Bipolar Disorder

Bipolar depression in one of the most complicated disorders. The characteristics of this condition include unusual mood episodes. These episodes of mania and depression can have varying intensities. A lot of energy goes into managing this. While there is no specific diet that can improve all of it, careful thought in crafting a healthy diet to maintain a balance can be really helpful. Some diet tips that can help with this condition are as follows:

Reduce the amounts of refined carbohydrates, sugar, caffeine, and alcohol
The best diet to opt for would be one that can be counted on to stabilize the blood sugar levels. This diet is known as a low GL diet. To maintain the blood sugar levels, it is important for the individuals to cut down the refined carbohydrates and sugar, to eat at regular intervals, and make sure that they are consuming enough protein in every snack and meal. Strong stimulants like energy drinks, coffee, and tea should be avoided. Even mild stimulants like green tea should be taken only occasionally. Alcohol consumption should be in strict moderation. It shouldn’t be over a small unit in a day or more than 3 to 4 times a week. A concentrated Omega-3 fish oil capsule with a 500mg dosage taken one or two times in a day can also be of help.

Increase the intake of food products with Omega-3 fats
Omega-3 fatty acids can be highly essential to the body and should be taken in adequate quantities every day. To keep up with the requirements of this, individuals would need to add fish to their diet at least two times in a week. Additional supplementation can also be done with omega-3 fish oils. The best type of fish that can be added to the diet includes Herring or kipper, mackerel, sardines, salmon, anchovy, fresh tuna, and trout. However, tuna can tend to be high in mercury and should not be taken more than thrice in a month. While considering seeds, pumpkin seeds and flax seeds can be the best options out there. As flax seeds are very small in size, they can be ground into powder form and be sprinkled in a variety of foods. Another way to consume them would be to use flax seed oil as salad dressings.

Consume foods that can provide high magnesium content
Food substances that can provide a high quantity of magnesium include legumes, whole grains, and particularly, dark green leafy vegetables. Salmon and pumpkin seeds are known to have high levels of omega-3 fatty acids. They also provide an adequate quantity of magnesium. If any symptoms of deficiency are being noticed, then magnesium supplements can also be taken. A dosage of 400 mg can be taken every day. Magnesium can actively work together with many other nutrients. Hence, individuals can also consider choosing a multi-vitamin and mineral composition as a supplement.