Bipolar depression is a disorder where depression is followed by mania. The symptoms and severity are different from person to person. The exact cause behind the bipolar depression is unknown however; it is understood to be triggered by varied factors like genes and the environment. Common triggers include tobacco, illegal drugs like cannabis, prescribed medication, keeping awake all night, poor diet, high levels of stress, alcohol, and lack of adequate and regular sleep. There are certain bipolar depression foods to be avoided to effectively manage bipolar disorder.
1. Sugars and artificial sweeteners
Avoid altogether the consumption of sugar. Space out the meals throughout the day so that the blood sugar does not dip too low. The crashes caused by sugar make an already unbalanced mood swing as more erratic and unpredictable. In case you crave for something sweet, go for fruits as the natural sugars are slowly absorbed and do not cause blood sugar spikes. Avoid bipolar depression foods such as those containing artificial sweeteners such as carbonated drinks as they lead to foggy brains and confusion.
2. Refined carbs and processed foods
Avoid processed foods. Anything that comes in a can, bag, or box should be avoided. Make an effort to not consume stuff prepared from white flour as they are specific bipolar depression food. Refined carbohydrates are often craved by people with bipolar depression. Such people are prone to obesity as the imbalance in serotonin prompts them to crave the unhealthy carbs. Instead of processed junk, go for whole grains, fruits, and vegetables. A diet high in carbohydrates causes mood crashes hence, they need to be avoided. For best results, limit fat intake also.
3. Preservatives
Foods that contain a lot of chemicals and preservatives listed on the label and food items with ingredients that cannot be even pronounced are better left on the store shelves as they are strongly likely to be bipolar depression foods.
4. Caffeine
Caffeine is a major culprit. Avoid stimulants like tea, coffee, soda, and energy drinks. Try to lessen or stop altogether their consumption as much as possible as they can heighten mania. Instead, try herbal teas or infused water to give energy and tranquillity as bipolar depression foods.
5. Alcohol
Restrict alcohol to a minimum. Even tranquilizers can trigger depression. Moderate drinking done for socializing can cause emotional imbalance. Bipolar patients are more likely to develop alcohol or drug addictions.
6. Supplements
Do not use natural, herbal and natural supplement s without a consultation with your health care provider as they can interfere with medications and cause triggers. Moreover, the FDA does not officially regulate these so they are best avoided as obvious bipolar depression foods.
7. Other foods
Chocolates cause mood swings. Other potential bipolar depression foods to be avoided are food items containing lactose such as dairy products and edible food dyes such as red color as it triggers a migraine.