Schizophrenia is a chronic condition where a person experiences hallucinations and delusions. Some people dealing with schizophrenia may be more susceptible to other physical ailments such as diabetes and heart diseases. A healthy diet may be beneficial to avoid these conditions. Additionally, certain foods may also improve or worsen schizophrenia symptoms. Here’s a list of foods a schizophrenia patient must eat and avoid.

Eating a balanced diet consisting of fibers, starch, fats, and fresh produce is beneficial for people with schizophrenia. Foods to include in one’s diet are as follows.

1. Fruits: Fruits are storehouses of vitamins, nutrients, and fibers. They prevent bad cholesterol and improve overall health significantly. It also lowers one’s chances of developing certain diseases such as diabetes and heart disease. Fruits can be incorporated in many ways and are also a great and healthy option for snacks.

2. Essential fats: Fats such as omega-3 fatty acids reduce schizophrenia symptoms as well as slow down its advancement. As omega-3 fatty acids can not be produced in the body, one must acquire them via food or supplements. Foods rich in essential fats are fatty fish such as salmon and sardines, avocados, olive oil, and flax seeds.

3. Vegetables: Leafy greens and fresh vegetables are rich in fibers, nutrients, and vitamins. All of these elements are beneficial to the body in several ways. As people dealing with schizophrenia tend to develop other conditions, including an increase in weight, blood pressure, and diabetes, healthy foods help maintain good health. Vegetables such as sweet potatoes, spinach, and beans are a great addition to one’s diet.

4. Zinc: There is a link between zinc and schizophrenia wherein low levels of the element worsen symptoms. Post testing, certain treatments, and after consulting a doctor, one can begin taking zinc supplements or eating foods containing zinc. Shellfish such as lobster, crab, and oysters contain higher amounts of zinc.

5. Niacin: This is a mystery element that, when combined with other nutrients, reduces hallucinations in people with schizophrenia. Niacin improves oxygen supply to the brain and helps the brain use essential fats. Chicken, avocados, and peanuts are good sources of niacin.

Certain foods tend to worsen symptoms or even make a person prone to developing other diseases. Therefore, one must avoid the following foods.

1. Sugar: A person dealing with schizophrenia must avoid artificially sweetened foods and beverages completely. This is because schizophrenics are more susceptible to sugar-related diseases like diabetes. Sugar may also worsen symptoms.

2. Caffeine: Excessive caffeine intake can be dangerous for people with schizophrenia. It can cause hallucinations and delusions. Therefore, it is advised to cut down or eliminate caffeine from one’s diet entirely.

3. Alcohol: Consuming alcohol, tobacco-based products, or other addictive substances can worsen schizophrenia symptoms. Certain substances may also result in a relapse or even psychosis.