FoodsBeneficial and Harmful Foods in Nutrition for PatientsSchizophrenia
Schizophrenia is a chronic brain disorder characterized by hallucinations, delusions, loss of touch with reality, and an inability to express feelings. The most common treatment for schizophrenia involves antipsychotic medications, but natural remedies can also assist in improving schizophrenia as complementary therapies. In this section of health and wellness.SelMagzWe present the musts and don’ts of nutrition for individuals with schizophrenia.
Beneficial Foods for Schizophrenia Patients
Fruits and Vegetables
Try to include plenty of fruits and vegetables in the diet of individuals with schizophrenia. It is recommended to have at least five servings of fresh fruits, fruit juices, and dried fruits daily.
High Fiber Foods
Consume more fiber; a daily intake of at least 18 to 30 grams of fiber is recommended. Eating more fiber in your diet will help you feel fuller and prevent weight gain. Bread andbrown riceand grains are rich in fiber.
Fatty Fish
Include fatty fish in your diet at least three times a week. Fatty fish includes salmon, mackerel, trout, and sardines.
Fatty AcidsOmega 3
Fatty acids are found in fatty fish like sardines, salmon, and mackerel, as well as in certain seeds like flaxseed, soybeans, and dietary supplements. These fats cannot be produced by the body and must be obtained from the diet.Omega-3 fatty acids contain a chemical called EPA, crucial for various bodily functions, including nerve, immune system functions, and promoting proper brain development in children.Drink Enough Water
Stay hydrated by drinking enough water. You should drink around 1.2 liters of water daily, but you will need more in hot weather or during exercise. Water, milk, and fruit juices are the healthiest beverages to consume. Drinks like tea,
coffee
and energy drinks should be consumed sparingly due to theircaffeinecontent, as they can be stimulating.Regular MealsStrive to have three regular meals each day. Breakfast is important as a breakfast rich in high-fiber cereals will keep you satiated until lunch, helping you avoid snacking.
Vitamin B and Schizophrenia:
Taking vitamin B complex is essential for brain function and various other processes. Vitamins B1 to B12 help eliminate free radicals in the brain. They act as antioxidants, effectively neutralizing homocysteine, which is detrimental to neural network connections. Additionally, vitamin B3, known as niacin, plays a significant role in maintaining stable moods, reducing
headaches
and other psychological issues.After taking vitamin B, especially in individuals with schizophrenia, a noticeable improvement in cognitive function should be observed, along with other benefits like enhanced memory and energy levels.Vitamins and Mineral Supplements:
Very high amounts of specific vitamins, especially niacin, nicotinic acid, and vitamin C, and minerals like zinc and manganese have been tested for treating schizophrenia, with positive results. Specific minerals like zinc and selenium play a role in treating schizophrenia.
Can Special Diets Help Individuals with Schizophrenia?
Over the years, many theories have emerged suggesting that diet could be linked to schizophrenia. Many believe there is enough evidence to consider diet in madness, and until we fully understand how the brain works in this condition, dietary adjustments should not be ignored, as they might bring relief to some patients. While diet is recommended to assist in treating schizophrenia, it should never replace treatment with antipsychotic medications.
Organic Food
Some food additives are implicated in behavioral issues, especially in hyperactive children, but there is very little evidence to support this theory. According to this theory, some additives trigger the release of a chemical into the bloodstream that impacts brain functions. Currently, there is little evidence linking additives to schizophrenia. However, avoiding food additives can easily be achieved by choosing organic alternatives. Organic food is usually more expensive than non-organic.
Gluten-Free Diets and Schizophrenia
Celiac disease provides a connection between schizophrenia and various theories regarding the beneficial effects of a gluten-free diet.
Celiac disease
is a chronic condition where the small intestine becomes hypersensitive to gluten found in wheat products. If gluten is not fully digested, chemicals called gliadin can enter the bloodstream and affect the brain, influencing thought and behavior. Gluten can be found in processed foods.Celiac can lead toanemia
,weight lossand psychological symptoms, but in many cases can be successfully treated with a gluten-free diet. It is believed that celiac disease is hereditary. Celiac disease and schizophrenia often occur in the same family.The Ketogenic Diet:A new hypothesis suggests that in some patients, brain disorders caused by glucose and energy may play a role in the condition’s development, and this so-called ketogenic diet favored by bodybuilders may help them.
Harmful Foods for Schizophrenia Patients:
Starchy Foods
– Limit foods that contain
starch
such aspotatoes,pastaor rice, and try to incorporate options like brown rice that are high in fiber.Saturated Fats– Reduce intake of saturated fats, sugar, and salt, and the best way to do this is by preparing food and cakes at home. Butter, margarine, and oils should be limited by those on phenothiazines and benzodiazepines, as individuals taking these medications are at risk ofweight gain.
Wheat Products
The consumption of wheat products and dairy products worsens the symptoms of the disorder. In some individuals, eliminating these from the diet can lead to symptom improvement.Diet for Schizophrenia PatientsNutrition for Schizophrenia Patients
Schizophrenia
Nutrition Musts and Don’ts for Schizophrenia Patients
