A recent study by the United States’s National Institutes of Health (NIH) found nutritional therapy may reduce the incidence and severity of bipolar disorder.
Bipolar disorder is an abnormal fluctuation in a person's mood, energy, activity level, and ability to concentrate. Individuals with bipolar disorder might find managing daily duties challenging. People with the condition may experience extreme melancholy, or on the other hand, extreme happiness and excessive activity at some times, known as ‘mania’.
DASH diet
Dr. Saloni Gupta, Consultant, Clinical Psychology, Max Super Hospital in Dehradun says that bipolar disorder has a negative impact on mental, physical and social life. Therefore, making wise eating choices is essential for a person to help themselves to maintain a healthy weight and to preserve overall well-being.
According to NIH’s study, adhering to DASH (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension) diet is crucial at all times. The DASH diet is a nutritious eating plan created to assist in the management or prevention of high blood pressure. Adhering to a DASH diet is crucial for bipolar patients as it can assist them in managing their hypertension, which is a result of mood fluctuations that range from manic highs to depressed lows. It is important for bipolar persons to consume a diet rich in proteins and minerals. This diet includes whole grains, fish, eggs, meat, low-fat dairy, soy products, nuts, seeds, fresh fruits and vegetables. The amounts of nutrients included in these foods are sufficient to support overall health and prevent illness.
As per the study, abstaining from sweets, salt, and alcohol is essential for reducing the prevalence of bipolar illness. The study also states that it is crucial for patients with bipolar disorder to reject Western diets that are heavy in red meat, trans and saturated fats, and carbs. This eating behaviour is linked to a higher risk of obesity, type 2 diabetes and heart disease. Lowering consumption of simple carbohydrates and saturated fats can improve human health.
Also, regular exercise is necessary to maintain a healthy weight. It's critical to discuss weight gain prevention strategies with your doctor when taking medication for bipolar disease.