Foods to Eat and Avoid with Schizophrenia

Foods to Eat and Avoid with Schizophrenia

Schizophrenia is a chronic mental disorder that alters the way a person thinks, behaves, and feels. People with this condition seem to have lost touch with reality. It affects about 1% of adults all over the world. It is characterized by hallucinations, delusions, and cognitive challenges. It usually strikes between 16 and 30 years of age and has a slow progression rate; hence it goes unnoticed for years. However, for some, it can strike suddenly with the fast development of symptoms. There are many factors involved in the onset of schizophrenia, including genetic and environmental triggers. With proper treatment, it can be managed, and people can lead normal lives.

The treatment for this disease usually involves taking antipsychotic medications along with counseling, psycho-education, and rehabilitation. However, there are many natural schizophrenia treatments as well. It should be remembered that medication is imperative for this condition, and any other alternative natural therapies can be complementary.

Here are some effective natural schizophrenia treatments.

1. Intake more vitamins
It has been observed that people with this condition have low blood levels. So, they need to take folic acid and vitamin B9 supplements. These could reduce some of the symptoms.

2. Go for fish oil supplements
One of the schizophrenia natural treatments include having a diet rich in fish oil as it has omega-3 fatty acids. These nutrients reduce inflammation in the body, which is the reason for many mental illnesses. It may not improve the symptoms of people with schizophrenia, but it would help in the overall enhancement of health.

3. Take glycine
It is a protein-building block or amino acid. It works in conjunction with glutamine that helps in brain function. It has been proven that high doses of glycine can improve the efficacy of antipsychotic medicines that are used for schizophrenia treatment. It could also reduce negative symptoms, such as depression. This is one of the best forms of schizophrenia natural treatments.

4. Avoid stimulants
Strong stimulants like tea, coffee, and energy drinks can create havoc in the body, and therefore, must be avoided. Instead, one should occasionally intake mild drinks like green tea.

5. Avoid alcohol
Any kind of intoxication, especially alcohol, should be avoided as it will lead to many other complications and would also mean loss of control.

It has been seen that people with schizophrenia tend to eat less healthy food with more fat and less dietary fiber. They also exercise less and have a sedentary life. All this adds up to their mental health and increases all the symptoms of schizophrenia. Thus, schizophrenia treatment needs a holistic approach that would be a blend of medication and a healthy lifestyle. Following schizophrenia natural treatments will help in boosting immunity, which will help fight the associated ailments of this disorder.