Schizophrenia is a mental health condition that involves a breakdown between thoughts, emotions, and behavior. It leads to a faulty perception of the world, inappropriate actions or feelings, withdrawing from reality and relationships, and a sense of mental fragmentation. While not very common, it is a long-term disorder that requires lifelong treatment. The condition is likelier to show signs of developing in persons between the ages of 16 and 30.
The symptoms of schizophrenia can be classified into three categories—positive, negative, and cognitive. While there is no treatment to cure the condition completely; with proper care, treatment, exercise and dietary intake, patients with this disease can lead a normal life with fewer occurrences of symptoms.
Dietary tips for those suffering from schizophrenia include the following:
1. Consume more fatty acids
The meals of patients suffering from schizophrenia should include fatty acids as these are necessary for proper brain function. Examples of food rich in fatty acids are nuts, fish, etc. Foods for a schizophrenia diet should include the prescribed amount of fatty acids as recommended by doctors or dieticians.
2. Limit sugar consumption
Sugar consumption should be reduced by schizophrenic patients. This is because the medications that are prescribed for this medical condition can increase blood sugar levels in the body. Hence, it is advisable that the foods for schizophrenia patients contain a reduced amount of sugar.
3. Reduce caffeine intake
Caffeine intake should be reduced by patients suffering from schizophrenia as the level of blood sugar in the body needs to be stable.
4. Increase the multivitamin intake
Multivitamins should be included in the diet of a patient with schizophrenia. Niacin deficiency can lead to the symptoms of this disease occurring. It is necessary that the required levels of vitamin B, zinc and folic acid be maintained in the body.
5. have a gluten-free diet
Among the various foods for schizophrenia patients, a gluten-free diet is necessary as the presence of gluten in the body leads to the symptoms of the disease arising. The common foods containing gluten are wheat products, bread, barley, baked products, etc.
6. Avoid alcohol
A patient suffering from this disease needs to avoid alcohol.
7. Increase the level of antioxidants
Antioxidant levels need to be increased and hence, food items that are rich in antioxidants such as apples, pecans, beans, etc. need to be included in the diet for schizophrenia patients.
Consuming these items regularly helps in reducing the symptoms of the disease. It is essential to not modify the diet by oneself without the advice of a doctor.
Along with dietary changes, it is essential for patients with schizophrenia to lead an active lifestyle as physical exercise plays a huge role in reducing the symptoms. Eating and living healthy is essential for patients as it improves both the physical and mental health of the patient. The consumption of junk food should be avoided as one needs to control their weight.