A link does exist between diet and bipolar disorder. Omega 3, Magnesium, Vitamin B, and low sugar intake seemed helpful in minimizing the intensity and frequency of the mood swings.
I can't speak to the specifics of these findings, but I do agree that what I eat will have an effect on my ability to control my bipolar. I have personally discovered that maintaining a lowered sugar intake (beside the fact that I am diabetic), watching my caffeine intake, and eating healthier foods has helped me in keeping my moods on a more even keel. It may be anecdotal in my case, but considering the fact that I do not take medication, every little bit helps.
I can’t tell if the eating changes were caused by the brewing mood episode or if the dramatic change in diet triggered the mood episode – but they were clearly related to each other. We know that bipolar mood episodes are closely linked to regulatory systems such as sleep/wake, so it makes sense that the dietary system would be part of that loop as well.
I would have to say that in my own experience, a "brewing mood episode" triggers a change in my eating. For example, when I start a downward cycle I tend to eat more (and usually unhealthy) food. I tire easily, and to help maintain my energy level I eat. To help combat that I try to keep simple, easy to prepare ,and nutritious foods on hand, or at least better than what I have munched on in the past. (I will be the first to admit I fail at this more than I succeed.)
Another key thing I have to keep in mind is my work schedule. Besides jacking with my sleep (which I have trouble with--waking every 1 1/2 - 2 hrs), I don't eat meals like a person pulling a "9 to 5" job. So recently, because of the increase in stress, I have been attempting to eat my main meal when I wake for the day (usually between 6-8 PM) and eating lighter foods while at work. So far it seems to be working.
[On a side note: I have also been forcing myself to get out of my apartment, even if it is just to the store to grocery shop. When under duress I have a tendency to isolate, which for me is not a good thing. Something I have learned over the course of battling the beast since 97. It is why it is so important to educate yourself and learn all you can about you and your illness.]
And yes, sleep is very important. That is a whole issue in and of itself.
What do you think? Do you think the medical profession tends to overlook nutrition when treating bipolar disorder? When’s the last time your family physician, p-doc, or therapist asked you about what you eat or recommended dietary changes to help in mood management?
Some very important questions we all should be asking ourselves. Even if from a general health standpoint.
Diet, Appetite, Nutrition | Bipolar Disorder Mood Management | Bipolar Beat
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