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.

3. Magnesium

Magnesium and lithium are drugs used to stabilize moods and have a similar chemical make-up. It appears that lithium and magnesium work the same way in the body’s cells. Legumes like chickpeas, lentils, lima beans, and soybeans are all sources of magnesium. Nuts including almonds and peanuts also contain magnesium. Men need 333 mg and women need 400 mg daily.

4. Omega-3 fatty acids

Whether or not omega-3 fatty acids moderate bipolar symptoms is debated among scientists. One study of the connection between omega-3 and bipolar disorder involved 58 subjects in which twenty-seven of the participants were bipolar. The bipolar members of the group all had an omega-3 deficiency. Omega-3 can be found in fish, nuts, and grains and can also be found in juices and dairy products that are fortified with omega-3. The minimum daily intake of omega-3 should equal 250-500 mg.

5. Probiotics

What goes on in the gut can affect the central nervous system. Research conducted by Sheppard Pratt Health System found that inflammation in the gut can aggravate bipolar symptoms. Probiotics, or good bacteria, regulate inflammation in the gut. Probiotics intake should be the equivalent of 1-2 million colony-forming units (CFUs) at least every other day. The CFU is the number of living bacteria in a colony. Fermented and unfermented milk, soy-based beverages, and yogurt contain probiotics.

6. Whole grains

The theory is that whole grains help with serotonin production. Not only does serotonin promote positivity, it also gives one a sense of control. A lack of serotonin has been observed in other psychiatric disorders affecting mood. Oatmeal, popcorn, and whole-wheat products are sources of whole grains. At least 3 ozs. of whole grains should be consumed every day.