Bipolar disorder is a condition in which patients experience extreme mood swings. This disorder is extremely dangerous and can cause suicidal behavior. It can, however, be managed with therapy and medicines.

Diet and supplements can play a small role in helping with the betterment of the patient. Some bipolar depression foods are discussed below.

Whole grains

Whole grains tend to have a calming effect on one’s mind and can increase productivity. Serotonin is a chemical secreted by the brain to help ease anxiety and can be enhanced by carbohydrates in whole grains. Some of the best methods to consume whole grains are through brown rice, oatmeal, quinoa, and whole grain toast.

Omega-3 fatty acids

A few types of omega-3 fatty acids play a major role in the brain. They help facilitate the signaling between neurons. They are found to be helpful in treating depression and bipolar disorders. Coldwater fish contain the most amount of omega-3 fatty acids. Other good food sources are salmon, tuna, trout, eggs, flax seeds, etc.

Food rich in selenium

Selenium is an element that is found in scarce amounts which are nevertheless essential for the healthy functioning of one’s brain. It also helps in stabilizing a person’s mood and its deficiency leads to depression. Bipolar depression foods rich in selenium are Brazil nuts, tuna, ham, turkey, steak, etc.

Foods rich in magnesium

All members of the legume family are rich in magnesium. Black beans, lima beans, chickpeas, lentils, and soybeans are some of them. Magnesium helps to reduce mania symptoms. Beans are also rich in fiber which is good for health and can ease the mind. Although beans make one gassy, the effect diminishes after regular intake. Magnesium is one of the main components of bipolar depression foods. In addition to reducing mania, magnesium also calms a nervous system that is overactive and keeps the cortisol levels in check.

Probiotics
Healthy bacteria are required in one’s body to help in digestion and to reduce inflammation. Patients with bipolar disorder generally have a lot of inflammation. They also help to promote immunity. They help in controlling a person’s emotional health by releasing stress hormones. Probiotics are foods that contain live healthy bacteria that is good for the human body. Yogurt, kefir, etc., contain a healthy amount of probiotics.

What to avoid
Foods that are high in caffeine and alcohol can trigger bipolar disorder. Caffeine can stimulate jitters and amp up anxiety levels. It can cause sleeplessness as well. Alcohol can make one feel more edgy which is contradictory to the general assumption that it will help a person relax. It can also cause dehydration which can lead to a bad mood and irritation.

There are some foods that do not go well with the medication taken for bipolar disorder. Tyramine is best avoided if one is taking monoamine oxidase inhibitors. It is found in aged cheese, fermented food, soybeans, and dried fruits.

High-fat food and food high in sugar—especially processed foods—must be avoided. It can cause an unhealthy gain in weight which is related to one’s mood and can affect the treatment administered against bipolar disorder.