Health
Dietary Tips for Bipolar Disorder
Bipolar disorder was formerly called manic-depressive disorder and is a mental health condition. It is characterized by extreme mood swings that can include emotional highs, called mania or hypomania and lows, known as depression. During a manic episode energy levels increase and staying focused is difficult. Symptoms of a depressive episode include hopelessness, alienation, lethargy or restlessness, loss of interest in everyday life, changes in appetite and weight, contemplatng suicide, and phantom aches and pains. There is no official bipolar disorder diet, but certain foods can mitigate bipolar symptoms: 1. Cheese, eggs, tofu, and turkey These four mood-stabilizing foods all contain tryptophan. Tryptophan is important to organ function and In the body, it is converted to the hormone serotonin. Known as the “feel good” hormone there is evidence that serotonin moderates manic episodes. The daily intake of tryptophan should equal 1.8 mg per pound of body weight. 2. Foods high in selenium Brain oxidative stress occurs when free radicals overwhelm the body’s antioxidant defenses and oxidative stress can be a contributing factor in depression. Selenium is a free radical-fighting antioxidant and good sources include brazil nuts, beef liver, halibut, and ham. Other sources include sardines, shrimp, tuna, and turkey. Adults need 55 micrograms of selenium daily.
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