Schizophrenia is often characterized by hallucinations, delusions, and disorganized speech. While the cause of schizophrenia is unknown, treatments are available that delay the progress of the symptoms. However, following a healthy diet is helpful. Some foods help in stabilizing moods and prevent obesity, which is one of the side effects of this disorder. Here are a few useful tips that may form a part of a recommended diet plan for schizophrenia patients.

1. Add fresh fruits to your diet
Fresh fruits contain a high level of fiber. Having enough fiber in one’s diet regulates bowel movement, preventing constipation, IBS, and other health issues of the bowel. Moreover, fiber aids in digestion and controls cholesterol levels. This helps in the prevention of diseases such as hypertension, diabetes, and so on, which are often side effects of schizophrenia. Colorful fruits such as raspberries, strawberries, blackberries, blueberries, and cherries will brighten up one’s meals as well as provide the essential vitamins and fiber.

2. Eat more veggies
Veggies have low fat and calories. In addition, these are packed with fiber, vitamins, minerals, and other essential nutrients. This is why fresh vegetables must always be a core part of a balanced diet. Moreover, most vegetables have minimal heart-heavy cholesterol. Veggies such as lima beans, sweet potatoes, kidney beans, and so on are also rich in potassium. This is an important nutrient that keeps blood sugar in check. It helps in preventing diabetes and also stabilizes energy levels and mood.

3. Have fatty fish
Salmon, tuna, mackerel, trout, and sardines have high levels of fatty acids and oils. However, these are heart-healthy fats known as omega-3 fatty acids. These oils and fats give these fish essential nutrients as well as taste. This is why fatty fish often appear in various recommended diet plans for schizophrenic patients. Adding fatty fish to regular meals can help in curbing obesity as well. Have these baked or pan-fried with veggies to get the best health benefits.

4. Keep away from refined sugar
Foods with a high percentage of refined sugar are not good for overall health. Such foods may curb hunger and cravings, but only for a while. Refined sugar in these foods causes a spike in blood sugar levels, and then sugar levels come crashing down. This will cause more hunger pangs, lower energy levels, and affect mood as well. All of these can be detrimental to the long-term health of a person with schizophrenia.

5. Avoid bread
Bread is mostly made from refined flour and refined sugar. Both these ingredients are unhealthy. Moreover, bread has a high gluten content. Those with schizophrenia are often advised to avoid gluten-based foods. The refined flour and refined sugar in bread can curb off the craving for a while but do not stave off hunger. This can cause a person to eat more contributing to obesity.