Schizophrenia is a serious mental disorder. People who suffer with this affliction tend to interpret reality very differently than other people. Schizophrenia may come with symptoms of hallucinations, delusions, distorted thinking, social withdrawal, and various behaviors that impair their daily functioning. It ought to be noted that many mood-stabilizing foods have proven to be very helpful in managing this disorder. At this time, there is no known cure, however, many people enjoy a normal functioning life with good management of their disease.

Changes in the diet can greatly benefit those who are afflicted with schizophrenia. There has been much research claiming that omega-3 fatty acids tend to ease the many symptoms. Slowing the progression of the disease is another benefit of a diet change. The following is a good list of foods to help with the management of the symptoms:

1. B vitamin whole foods
This can include whole grains, nuts, fruits, beans and plenty of vegetables. Folic acid is quite rich. This is referring to fish, eggs, meat, lentils and seeds. Beans contain folic acid and tend to stabilize the brain in various ways

2. Increase fruit intake
Eating apples, pears, raspberries and many other natural fruits offer added fiber. This is going to reduce the “bad” cholesterol while benefiting the entire digestive system. Keep in mind, a fiber-rich diet tends to reduce many other health issues that may be associated with this disorder

3. Increase protein
Added protein gives people added energy. There are many plant-based food options to choose from including plant-based butter. This includes bananas, brown rice, Greek Yogurt, oats, almonds and many more will increase energy levels and will make exercising much easier (daily exercise reduces anxiety and other symptoms)

4. Increase healthy fats
Omega-3s fatty acids increase emotional health. The inclusion of healthy fats will improve moods. Sardines, anchovies, walnuts, canola oil and other oily fish are foods that will increase omega-3 fatty acids

5. Whole grains
These tend to calm the mind while benefiting the digestive system. Barley, brown rice, oatmeal, pasta, popcorn and whole-wheat breads are calming

6. Avocados
These tend to keep people feeling full and those who are diagnosed with schizophrenia are often obese. These will reduce some binge eating while preventing mood swings

7. Additional dietary tips
A person diagnosed with schizophrenia will usually benefit from a daily multivitamin along with the dietary changes. Niacin deficiency has been known to increase and produce some thought disorders, depression and hallucinations. Many medical professionals hold the belief that increasing niacin tends to reduce the symptoms associated with schizophrenia. There is much speculation surrounding gluten and schizophrenia. Many professionals have determined that mental illness can induce a sensitivity to gluten and cutting some gluten items out of the diet can be beneficial. Keep in mind, there are some myths involving gluten and various foods. It is a good idea to consult a trained and trusted medical professional when making changes in the diet. The bipolar depression diet can be beneficial because it involves less saturated fats and eating fewer simple carbohydrates tends to improve health because more fruits are included in this type of diet. Beans are encouraged in the bipolar depression diet too. Include the following beans as potentially beneficial:

  • Pinto beans
  • Chickpeas
  • Mung beans