Bipolar disorder, which used to be known as manic depression, is a mental illness that has tendencies to result in behavior that would be classified as risky, careers and relationships that are damaging or toxic, and in some cases suicidal attempts or tendencies. Symptoms of bipolar disorder include, but are not limited to, sadness and crying easily, overeating, impulsive behavior, inattention, confusion, anxiety, excessive worrying, being excessively moody, and feeling trapped.

Certain foods have been found to trigger bipolar episodes. Here we will take a closer look at foods to avoid for a bipolar diet:

1. Avoid caffeine
We all love our coffee, soda, energy drinks, and chocolate, but they all have high amounts of caffeine, which is a stimulant. Caffeine should be avoided due to its stimulating effects. It can cause issues with falling or staying asleep and cause sleep deprivation. A lack of sleep can be a huge trigger for both mania and bipolar mood swings. Many over the counter medications will also have caffeine in them such as cold and cough medicines. It is best to avoid those as well.

2. Avoid sugar
Diets that are high in sugar will make it harder for the patient to control their weight and could lead to obesity. When a person becomes obese, they usually have belly fat, which can make some treatments for bipolar disorders, such as mood stabilizers, to be less effective. Avoid foods such as candy, soda, and desserts that are high in sugar.

3. Avoid salt
One of the most commonly prescribed medications for bipolar disorder is lithium. If you are taking this medication, it is important to moderate your salt intake. It is also worth noting that if you are taking lithium you need to get the necessary liquids each day. Becoming dehydrated has been linked to side effects that can be dangerous. Salt will cause lithium levels to fluctuate. The recommended amount per day for adults is 1,500 mg.

4. Avoid fat
It is always a good idea to avoid foods that are high in trans and saturated fats. Some studies show that foods high in fat can cause medications to be less effective. When medicine isn’t as effective it can cause mood swings and instability.

5. Avoid alcohol
The bottom line is the fact that mixing bipolar disorder and alcohol is a cocktail for disaster. Not only will it affect the mood swings of a person with bipolar, it can also interact negatively with medications. People who have the disorder are also increasingly likely to die prematurely when using drugs and alcohol. Bipolar people tend to have addictive personalities, so having just one drink is increasingly difficult. It is best to avoid alcohol, all together.