Food

I'm curious if there are specific foods or additives (e.g. artificial sweeteners) that trigger mania or depression in those diagnosed with Bipolar Disorder. If so, what are they? I'm trying to learn ways I can help myself to avoid episodes in addition to taking my medications and doing other therapeutic activities.

Also, is there anything that can help treat or avoid triggering Bipolar episodes?

[BipolarBear75]

Hi, all I hear about is the need to reduce caffeine and sugar.

I am now trying to find out all my triggers and have only figured out some and don't know how to fix them be able to avoid them as of yet.....I would love to know as well. Working with my pdoc for this stuff.

[LeftCoastChick]

I am trying to figure that out too..  I know sugar can make my mood swing.. if I don't keep my blood sugars as level as I can. I am trying to avoid sweeteners - as I am told they can induce migraines in larger doses, I figure if they can mess with that, then probably with BP.  I am also looking into taking fish oils to add to my *drug regime*. It couldn't hurt, but I am told to stay away from Sam-e - as that can trigger hypo mania.. going to check with my pdoc as well.. thanks for posting.

[shortcircuited]

Caffeine is a drug and an upper, so it's good to avoid that.  As for food, it's up to the individual.  You have to watch you medications to make sure there isn't any food restriction.

It's true some sweeteners can trigger migraines.  Just one diet soda with Nutrasweet gives me a migraine.  Chocolate can also trigger migraines for some people, but I don't think I know anyone who has bp issues with chocolate.  Migraine triggers are not necessarily bp triggers.

[LeftCoastChick]

I could never, and I mean never give up chocolate! I have found since starting Serequal my sugar cravings have dropped significantly and my binge eating has dropped drastically - as well in general my interest in food.. hmm.