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Naturopathic Medicine in Mesa AZ

Tara Peyman, Naturopathic Doctor

5416 E. Southern Ave., Ste. 110 Mesa, AZ 85206 phone: (480) 985-0000

The Bipolar Diet: How Your Food Can Be Your Medicine

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Wednesday, May 19, 2010
By Tara Peyman, ND

For people with bipolar disorder, one of the most important factors in stabilizing healthy mood and energy is balanced nutrition and a healthy lifestyle. There are a few key nutrients that can be particularly important for people with bipolar or depression. Many patients with mild to moderate depression or bipolar disorder can significantly reduce symptoms with diet and exercise alone.

Following these few simple steps can encourage better control of moods and healthier energy balance:

1. Regularly Scheduled Meals. Often people with bipolar disorder or mental illness will skip meals, forget to eat, or overeat even if they are not hungry. Eat a nutritious meal three times daily on a regular schedule, even if you do not feel hungry. Stop eating when you are actually full. Pay attention to cues from your body or mind that tell you your blood sugar might be low, such as light-headedness, weakness, or irritability. Keeping your blood sugar balanced can support stability of moods and energy.

2. Omega 3 Oils. Fish oil, flax oil, and other omega 3 oils have been particularly helpful in reducing symptoms of depression and bipolar disorder in some patients. Dosages depend on the individual case, but often higher doses provide better results. Omega-3 oils can also assist in cholesterol balance, heart health, skin health, and many other concerns.

3. B-vitamins. It is important to consume foods that are rich in B vitamins every day, such as fresh fruit, green vegetables, and whole grains. B vitamins are utilized quickly by the body and cannot be stored, so regular consumption of fresh whole foods is vital to keep your B vitamin status sufficient. A B complex or high-potency multivitamin supplement can be used to increase vitamin status as well. B vitamins are important for the general population, but especially for people with mood disorders, because B vitamins are utilized in the body and brain for energy production and mood stability.

A healthy diet with a balance of protein, vegetables, and whole grains can be essential in the recovery from bipolar disorder. For people with mental illness, taking care of yourself is not always easy, but a few simple steps can make a huge difference. Once you make one change, it can be a motivating force to spark new positive changes in diet, exercise, and other aspects of your life.

The above recommendations must not replace the advice of a personal physician. Always consult a physician before making any changes to supplements or medications, to ensure your health and safety.

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Tara Peyman is a licensed Naturopathic Doctor in the Phoenix, Arizona area. She has an expertise in the homeopathic and integrative treatment of bipolar disorder and mental illness. She has also developed comprehensive, naturopathic programs for weight loss, diabetes and smoking cessation. She practices at East Valley Naturopathic Doctors in Mesa, AZ (480.985.0000) and in Tempe, AZ (480.456.0402). www.DrTaraPeyman.com.

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