Bipolar disorder is a complex disorder in which the person experiences unusually high and low moods. With this, the person might experience major depression, accompanied by disturbed thinking, impairment in social functioning, and distortions of perception. Other than following diet tips for managing bipolar depression, regular physical activity or exercise is also important to stay fit.

Making some lifestyle changes like regular exercise keeps the body active and also improves the mood. One can start with walking or a 30-minute workout session with a friend. Other necessary changes include keeping a check on the sleep patterns, eating the right food, keeping stress levels in check, and being socially active.

Diet tips for managing bipolar depression

• Avoid red meat, saturated fats, and trans fat
  People with bipolar depression should avoid eating red meat, saturated fat, and carbohydrates. This will keep overall health in check and won’t make them lazy or inactive.
• Eat a balance of protein and nutrient-dense food
  One of the most effective diet tips for managing bipolar depression is to eat fresh fruits, vegetables, legumes, whole grains, fish, lean meat, nuts, seeds, low-fat dairy products, and eggs. They provide the required nutrients and protein and also improve overall health.
• Watch the calorie intake
  It is important to maintain healthy body weight as the mind will also stay light and relaxed that way. Studies show that if one is suffering from bipolar disorder, they are at a higher risk of being obese or overweight. So, it is important to keep a check on the calorie intake and maintain a healthy body weight.
• Include fish in the diet
  Including non-fried fatty fish like herring, salmon, sardines, mackerel, and tuna in the diet is a very helpful diet tip for managing bipolar depression. If one doesn’t like fish, they can opt for fish oil supplements. These healthy fats keep the heart healthy and improve the functioning of the brain.
• Be careful with the salt intake
  It is believed that excess salt is harmful as it causes water retention in the body. If one also suffers from high blood pressure, they should limit their salt intake.
• Consume more whole grains
  Whole grains are good for the heart as well as the digestive system, and they also have a soothing effect on the mind. Carbohydrates are known to produce serotonin in the body, which helps ease anxiety and also helps keep the mind in control. Also, while exercising, the carbohydrates burn and provide energy to the body.

Along with following a regular workout routine, it is important to consume food items like beans, turkey, nut, herbal tea, dark chocolate, saffron, and selenium-rich foods to combat bipolar depression. Following the above diet tips for managing bipolar depression is as important as making exercise a part of daily life, and yoga or meditation can also help.