Since schizophrenia is a condition that has no cure as yet, treatment focuses on managing it and keeping its symptoms under control. Aside from medications and therapy, one’s diet and lifestyle play a huge role in the same. A sedentary life and a high BMI can not only worsen schizophrenia, but it can also increase the risk of other diseases like diabetes and heart-related issues. Hence, medical professionals recommend a diet rich in fresh fruits and vegetables that contain the essential vitamins, minerals and protein and fiber. Given below are some of the foods to eat for schizophrenia patients to manage the disease.

• Fruits

Fruits are rich in minerals, vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants. Serving seasonal options of melons and berries is a good idea, alongside fruits like bananas, apples, oranges, and grapes that are available throughout the year. One must have at least two cups of fruits per day as a snack or as a part of the meal. Individuals can make smoothies or juices of these and use natural sweeteners instead of sugar. Remember that while frozen fruits are an option, it is essential to stay away from processed or canned fruits as they are high on sugar and preservatives.

• Brightly colored vegetables

Rainbow-colored vegetables such as carrots, beans, broccoli, cabbage, squash, peas, aubergine, and any vegetable low on starch can be served as foods to eat for schizophrenia. One can steam, boil, or add them to curries and sauces. They can even make them a part of a simple salad. Two to three cups of vegetables a day are enough to supply the required amount of nutrients and minerals. One should also try to include lentils like kidney beans three times a week.

• Folate-rich food items

Folate plays a key role in reducing the symptoms of schizophrenia. Some of the sources of folic acid are green leafy vegetables, beef liver, and asparagus.

• Omega-3 and omega-6-rich foods

A rich source of anti-oxidants, these nutrients are found abundantly in seafood. Choose only those fish that have a low mercury content such as mackerel, herring, sardines, and anchovies. Tuna is rich in mercury, so try to limit its consumption to not more than thrice a month. Plant-based sources of omega-3 fatty acids are chia seeds, Brussels sprouts, hemp seeds, walnuts, flaxseed. Crushed flaxseed oil can also be used in cereal, marinades, and dressings. Supplements are an option to ensure the body gets these nutrients but one should not opt for them without the advice and prescription of a doctor.

• Vitamin B-rich foods

Niacin, more commonly known as vitamin B3, and has been recorded as being successful in reducing the symptoms of schizophrenia. Red fish like salmon, seeds, milk, coffee, tea, green leafy vegetables, chicken and marinara sauce are all good sources of vitamin B3. Include adequate quantities of these items on the menu. B12 is another vitamin that is crucial for proper brain functioning. It is commonly found in animal protein and dairy products.

• Zinc

Tests reveal that many schizophrenia patients have lower levels of zinc. Natural sources of this nutrient are crab and lobster. Additionally, fortified cereals, whole grains, milk, cashew, and almonds are all good sources of zinc, thereby making them foods to eat for schizophrenia patients.

• Probiotics

Doctors observe that many schizophrenia patients could be affected by gut bacteria and hence one of the dietary treatments for this condition aims to improve gut strength. Yogurt, fermented kimchi and sauerkraut are some food items that are rich in probiotics. It is essential to keep in mind that one may need to limit the consumption of fermented products as they can contain histamine.

The daily menu should contain one or two items of food from each group. Those suffering from the condition should also drink at least 1.2 liters of water every day to prevent dehydration. Caregivers need to be patient and sensitive if the affected person shows no interest in eating or go on a binge-eating spree. One must work with their doctors and nutritionists constantly to update and modify a menu that not only promotes health but also maintains a healthy BMI.