Although we all experience ups and downs due to everyday stress, they are nothing compared to the ups and downs that a person with a bipolar disorder experiences. The "ups" is called the manic phase where the person experiences almost a wild ecstasy, sometimes causing them to behave irresponsibly while taking serious risks. Those undergoing the manic phase of the disease may experience a feeling of elation, coupled with over-inflated self-esteem. This is a time where they think that the world is at their feet and that nothing is impossible. Other symptoms consist of irritability, decreased need for sleep, rapid speech, increased libido, delusions, and the inability to focus on a specific task.

The other side of the coin, the depressive phase, eventually surfaces. During this phase, the person can experience the deepest pit of depression. The depressive phase presents itself with loss of energy, sadness, loss of interest in activities, significant changes in appetite, difficulty in sleeping or oversleeping, feelings of guilt and worthlessness, and suicidal thoughts.

These highs and lows can range from mild to extreme. They may come on slowly over a period of time, or they can surface within a matter of hours. A bipolar disorder can cause behavior extreme enough that it may be impossible to function in society. It affects family, work, and social relationships. As a likely result of the depression and extreme mood swings, as many as one in five people with bipolar disorder commit suicide.

The cause of a bipolar disorder is thought to be both physical and emotional. Some studies suggest that high or low levels of serotonin, norepinephrine, or dopamine are among the chief causes. Another cause could be imbalanced hormones and stress triggers are thought to be a third cause.

In addressing a bipolar disorder, just as with any other health condition, diet is crucial. It is important to give the body the proper nutrients it needs. Often times, poor nutrition is at least partly responsible for an impending condition. It is thought that the decreasing amounts of vitamins and minerals in our food supply and the SADs diet is responsible for the increasing number of people diagnosed as bipolar.

Removing unhealthy foods and stimulants that can aggravate symptoms should be a priority. Sugar, fatty foods, and caffeine are all irritants which contribute to manic episodes. On the other hand, alcohol, a depressant in its own right, will contribute to the depressive episodes. Removing these harmful ingredients from one's diet may improve, if not eliminate, these symptoms.

Processed foods should be eliminated. Not only have they been altered from their natural state, but they also contain harmful additives that aggravate manic depressive symptoms, together with contributing to poor health.

Omega 3's are important dietary considerations for addressing bipolar disorder. Some excellent sources are flaxseed, walnuts, and beans.

L-tyrosine is an amino acid that the body uses for the production of neurotransmitter serotonin which has been found to lessen the symptoms of bipolar disorder. Low levels of l-tyrosine reduce serotonin levels causing depression. L-tyrosine levels can be increased by eating spirulina (2043 mg), egg whites (raw) (1904 mg), pumpkin leaves (1642 mg), mustard greens (1587 mg), and spinach (1483 mg).

Carbohydrates are an essential energy source for the body. However, unhealthy carbohydrates will only result in too much sugar, causing those very mood swings we are trying so hard to prevent. Healthy carbohydrates can be found in fruits, vegetables and whole grains. Foods containing healthy carbs include apples, oranges, peaches, grapefruit, carrots, brussels sprouts, beans, and other fruits and vegetables. Stay clear of all breads and all other foods containing wheat (gluten). 

Medications used to treat this disorder come with serious side effects. There are natural effective means that are also less costly. Here are some of the best ones:

* Lithium orotate, a natural alternative to the normally prescribed lithium carbonate or lithium citrate, helps to control manic symptoms. This type of lithium releases an orotate ion into the bloodstream and brain instead of a carbonated ion. It has the same benefits as the prescription lithium carbonate, without the side effects. Another advantage in taking lithium orotate is that lesser amounts are needed to create the higher blood levels needed to obtain the desired effect. The reason that lesser amounts are needed is because prescription lithium is poorly absorbed by cells, necessitating higher amounts for a satisfactory therapeutic effect. Unfortunately, these higher amounts cause blood levels to be so high that they border on toxic levels. Additionally, prescription lithium can affect thyroid and kidney function.

* Omega 3 fatty acids have shown to decrease the incidence of manic episodes while prolonging its intervals. Omega 3 fatty acids can be found in walnuts, flax seeds, and beans.

* Magnesium is very important. A magnesium deficiency can lead to emotional, mental, and nervous disorders. Additionally, it is estimated that as many as 90 to 95% of Americans are deficient in this important mineral. It is important to note that calcium and magnesium act synergistically in the body. It is suggested to keep the ratio of calcium and magnesium between around 1:2 or 1:3.

* A deficiency in vitamin B12 has also been linked to bipolar disorder.

* Choline has been shown to be beneficial in addressing bipolar disease, particularly when taking lithium.

Also effective in treating bipolar disorder are plant-based foods rich in B-complex vitamins, folic acid, and vitamin C.

Proper nutrition together with key nutritional supplements can go a long way in helping someone suffering from a bipolar disorder.

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Contact Your Joyologist, Kevin Hinkle

I AM traveling around the country preparing meals in people's homes and sharing the journey of LIFE.  People have traded in their alcohol for carrot juice and swapped their cigarettes for guacamole.  If you feel moved to have your own personal joyologist come to your home for a few weeks to transform your nutrition and wellness, raise your energy level, and increase your longevity and overall well-BEing, contact me here.  OR we can setup phone consultations....

Excited to share all of this yummy nutrition with you. LOVE you ALL