A balanced diet is good for everyone as it contains the right combination of nutrients and minerals. For someone suffering from schizophrenia, It’s important to eat a balanced diet to manage the condition effectively. This kind of diet would help in alleviating the symptoms of the condition, while also helping reduce weight and blood sugar levels. In addition, it can help improve the mental health of those suffering from the disease.
Here are some nutrients to make part of the diet for schizophrenia, along with food sources for the mentioned nutrients:
1. Fatty acids
Fatty acids have omega-3 and are very good for overall health. These healthy fats have also been proven to help improve heart health. Omega-3 fatty acids also impact mental health and can reduce the symptoms of depression, helping those who suffer from schizophrenia. They improve general health and must be a part of the diet through the consumption of fatty fish like salmon, mackerel, tuna, and herrings. Nuts like walnuts, almonds, cashews, and pecans also have omega-3. Additionally, those who do not get a sufficient amount of omega-3 fatty acids from food can take it in the form of a supplement, but this should only be done after consulting a doctor.
2. Fiber
Fiber can be found in most vegetables and fruits and is extremely good for digestion. It helps in improving overall digestive health and can prevent weight gain and also reduce blood sugar. Foods rich in fiber like potatoes (when eaten with the skin), pulses, peas, bananas, apples, beans, nuts, grains, beets, carrots, collard greens, and such are good for schizophrenia.
3. Antioxidants
Many of those suffering from schizophrenia experience oxidative stress, which can damage the cells of the brain. Taking antioxidants in the form of supplements or as part of the diet can help in reducing cell damage. It has also been found that antioxidants can improve mental health. Most fruits and vegetables have antioxidants, and green tea, lean meat, and red wine are also rich sources of antioxidants and must be made a part of the diet for schizophrenia patients.
4. Niacin
Niacin is a vitamin that can help in reducing the symptoms of schizophrenia. There are certain foods like avocado, brown rice, turkey, chicken breast, salmon, and anchovies that are rich in niacin, and including these foods in the diet is very beneficial for managing the condition.
5. Vitamin B
Vitamin B is good for mental health and can help people suffering from schizophrenia. Vitamin B12, in particular, is helpful, and this can be found in eggs, fortified cereal, and fish like trout.
6. Zinc
Zinc is beneficial for those who are affected by schizophrenia. Beef, shellfish, and legumes have a good amount of zinc and are good foods for schizophrenia, and those who are not lactose-intolerant can also consume dairy products to get zinc.
