People with schizophrenia tend to follow an unhealthy diet. Poor eating habits can lead to other health problems that can put such patients at high risk of cardiovascular diseases. Research has shown that changes in the diet can help people with schizophrenia live a better life. So, here is a list of what to eat when you have schizophrenia.
- Fruits
Fruits are the obvious answer when you are wondering what to eat when you have schizophrenia. Eat a lot of fresh fruits like raspberries, pears, apples, and others. They have high amounts of fiber, which helps lower bad cholesterol and aids in digestion. A fiber-rich diet may lower your risk of health problems that are often associated with schizophrenia, like heart disease, diabetes, and obesity. - Vegetables
Vegetables are low in fat and calories and packed with fiber and important vitamins. Also, vegetables contain potassium, which helps keep the blood sugar level in check. The best vegetables you can eat are lima beans, kidney beans, and sweet potatoes. - Salmon and other fatty fishes
Omega-3 fatty acids have been known to prevent and ease the symptoms of schizophrenia and slow the disease’s progress. The body cannot produce omega-3, hence include salmon and mackerel in your daily diet. They are a great source of omega-3 fatty acids. - Chicken Marinara
The vitamin niacin can slow down the advance of schizophrenia and help ease the symptoms. Rich sources of niacin are chicken and marinara. - Oysters and crabs
Studies have shown that there is a relationship between zinc and schizophrenia. Oysters, crabs, and lobsters are high in zinc. Zinc is also found in beef and fortified cereals. - Clams
Vitamin B-12 is known to have a positive effect on schizophrenia. Clams contain B12. B12 is also found in liver, trout, and in some bread. - Spinach
Spinach is a good source of folate. Folate can help ease the symptoms of schizophrenia. It is also found in black-eyed peas, asparagus, and beef liver. - Cod liver oil
Vitamin D is believed to have a positive effect on schizophrenia. And vitamin D is found in cod liver oil, swordfish, and salmon. - Non-dairy yogurt
The gut microbiome or the swamp of bacteria in the intestine gets affected when you have schizophrenia. So, take more prebiotics that is found naturally in fruits and veggies. Probiotics found in yogurt, kimchi, and sauerkraut can help people with schizophrenia. - No Bread
Research shows that sensitivity to wheat can affect mental conditions like schizophrenia. People with schizophrenia improved when they switched to a gluten-free diet. And gluten is found in wheat and other grains. - No refined sugars
It has been well established that people with schizophrenia are picky eaters, and their odds of getting diabetes are higher. Hence, avoid refined sugars like sweetened beverages, candy, and cake.
Knowing what to eat when you have schizophrenia can help you live a healthy and happy life. You can also discuss meal plans with your doctor if you are not sure what to do.