The long-term treatment for schizophrenia is the use of antipsychotic medications. In recent years, however, there have been new studies delving into how nutrition can affect or help manage this condition. Those diagnosed with schizophrenia are more perceptible to weight gain due to poor quality of life or side effects from medication. This alone can cause considerable problems like high blood sugar levels, heart disease, among others.
There are also certain diets like the Vitamin B3 or Niacin therapy which are used side-by-side conventional medications to manage both the positive and negative symptoms of schizophrenia. So back to the question, “can diet affect schizophrenia?” Given below are certain instances where nutrition plays a major role in this condition.
Diet, weight and schizophrenia
A poor diet, lack of proper nutrition, the effect of psychotropic drugs, and lack of exercise all contribute to significant weight gain in those diagnosed with schizophrenia. Research also suggests that male schizophrenic patients have 2-5 times more visceral fats. This increase in body weight can lead to a host of other health issues, including cardiovascular diseases. Therefore, as an improper diet can affect schizophrenia, it is recommended that the patients:
- Eat less processed and fatty foods like fries, chips, muffins, and crackers.
- Consume more healthy fats (omega-3 fatty acids) like those in salmon, nuts, and seeds.
- Avoid too many carbs like refined sugar, refined flour, white bread, etc., and opt for whole grains wherever possible.
- Avoid full-fat dairy products, high-fat meat products, among others.
Vitamins and schizophrenia
Can diet affect schizophrenia? Yes, studies say so. Some vitamins, such as Riboflavin and Niacin, play a significant role in the development and healthy functioning of the brain. One such research showed that patients treated with these vitamin supplements showed a definite reduction in Schizophrenia symptoms.
Another study was conducted on the effect of antioxidants (found in vitamins C, E, and D) on schizophrenia. The results showed that providing patients with vitamin supplements, in case of a deficiency, showed a decrease in the symptoms.
Zinc and schizophrenia
Another study conducted on the topic “can diet affect schizophrenia?” showed that there is a relationship between low levels of zinc in the body and schizophrenia. To increase their intake of zinc, those diagnosed with this condition can consume more seafood like oysters, crabs, lobsters, etc. Zinc is also present in certain fortified cereals and meats like beef. However, these need to be eaten in moderation to keep weight gain and heart disease in check. Patients can also opt for zinc supplements after consulting their doctors.
Probiotics and schizophrenia
Our intestines play host to billions of good and bad gut bacteria. According to studies, these bad bacteria can be linked to schizophrenia. Therefore, those suffering from this condition are advised to consume more probiotics that increase the good bacteria levels in the gut. Probiotics are found in yogurt, fermented vegetables like sauerkraut and kimchi, kombucha, and certain fruits and vegetables.
Allergies and schizophrenia
Individuals with schizophrenia can also be allergic to certain food items. These allergies can exacerbate the symptoms of mental illness. Those with mental health issues are especially susceptible to gluten allergies. In fact, a study conducted by doctors in the 1950s concluded that a large percentage of children with schizophrenia also had celiac disease, a severe case of gluten allergy. Therefore, schizophrenics should avoid gluten in their diets.