While every case of bipolar disorder is different, the best way to treat the condition tends to be a combination of treatment with a general psychiatrist, medication and natural behavioral remedies. Certain foods have been shown to play a role in helping people with bipolar disorder and other mood disorders, while other foods have been shown to hinder their progress.
If you’ve been diagnosed with bipolar disorder, adding these foods to your diet (or increasing them) may help you feel better and regulate your moods:
- Fresh fruits… berries especially may regulate the production of cortisol, a stress hormone produced by the adrenal glands. Bananas help increase serotonin levels.
- Fresh vegetables
- Whole grains
- Salmon, mackerel, tuna and other fish high in Omega 3 acids
- Nuts and seeds
The fundamentals of a healthy diet also mean avoiding certain foods that have been shown to trigger bipolar episodes and make the disorder harder to manage. If possible, try and limit your intake of the following:
- White flour
- Processed foods or food rich in chemicals
- Artificial sweeteners
A healthy diet and regular exercise are the foundation to a healthy life for anyone and are extremely beneficial in aiding the medical treatment of bipolar disorder.