What we eat affects not only our bodies but also our minds. For each of us, eating healthy foods is important. However, for people with mental health issues like schizophrenia, the diet is all the more significant since they have far more physical problems than other people. As a result, it essential to know what foods can affect schizophrenia patients and how they can be avoided.

What you must add and avoid in your diet:

• Avoid refined carbs/sugar
  To begin with, your intake of refined carbs and sugar has to be curtailed to ease schizophrenia symptoms. Antipsychotic medicines can disrupt blood sugar levels, and some stimulant drugs are known to induce this condition. Blood sugar problems appear to be higher in people with schizophrenia who also have diabetes. So, you need to cut down on carbs like white bread or pasta and switch to a diet that includes foods with a low Glycemic Index. Include more of foods like cottage cheese, oatmeal, and fresh fruits and nuts.
• Avoid trans fats
  It is best to include essential fats in the diet of a patient diagnosed with schizophrenia because the brain gets stimulated by healthy fats. Breaking down of the brain’s essential fats happens because of the PLA2 enzyme, and this is usually very active in schizophrenia patients. This is why they must replenish their fat reserves that get quickly depleted. Adding fatty fish to the diet may help. You can also look for omega-3 fish oils or supplements containing DHA, EPA, or GLA. For EPA, the best sources are mackerels, herrings, fresh tunas, sardines, salmons, and anchovies.
• Increase intake of antioxidants
  Research shows that there is greater oxidation inside the brain’s frontal cortex because of schizophrenia. So, along with upping your healthy fat intake, you need to increase your antioxidant intake. It is necessary to include foods that will maximize the intake of vitamins C, A, and E. So, you must add more fruits and vegetables to the diet.
• Eat high-fiber foods
  You must eat more rice, potatoes, and pasta, and choose high-fiber options, like brown rice and pasta. Also, cook potatoes with their skins. It is important to have at least 18-30 grams every day of fiber because this will keep you feeling satiated and prevent unwanted weight gain.
• Oily fish
  It has been seen that eating three portions of fatty or oily fish like herring, trout, and salmon can improve the symptoms.
• Have more water
  It is necessary to drink lots of water or milk to make sure your body is well hydrated at all times.
• Include Vitamin C-rich foods
• Research has shown that vitamin C deficiency is quite common in people with mental health issues such as schizophrenia. This usually happens because they do not take proper care of themselves and do not eat wholesome meals. Vitamin C has been seen to alleviate schizophrenia symptoms in many research trials.
• Add niacin-rich foods
  Niacin deficiency is a classic vitamin deficiency, and it can cause dementia, hallucinations, depression, and anxiety. The disease pellagra has been identified as a key factor in schizophrenia and psychosis. Recommended sources of niacin are yeats, meats, and fish products.