Schizophrenia is a chronic mental illness that exhibits various symptoms like hallucinations, delusions, lack of emotions, withdrawal from surroundings, and paranoia, among others. One of the common problems of people living with schizophrenia that need to be tackled is their unhealthy eating habits. Following unhealthy food habits bring their own set of potential problems. However, when combined with schizophrenia the risks are greater.

To help you out, here is a list that will help you understand what to eat when you have schizophrenia:

Fiber-rich fruits

Studies show that people living with this condition do not have enough fiber in their system. Fiber helps to keep the digestive system healthy without having to rely on medications. It also helps lower the excessive amount of bad cholesterol. Fiber is also known to decrease the risk of secondary health issues associated with schizophrenia. Include fruits like apples, pears, berries, oranges, and grapefruits to increase the fiber intake.

Vegetables
We all know that vegetables are just as healthy as fruits. No wonder this class of foods makes it to the list of what to eat when you have schizophrenia. Vegetables are packed with fiber, vitamins, and minerals but are low on fat content. Like fruits, vegetables also help avoid schizophrenia-related complications as the rich dose of potassium obtained from them helps maintain blood sugar levels.

Fatty Fish

The body needs both Omega-3 and Omega-6 as they are essential fats. While the body does not produce these fats on its own, it is dependent on external sources. The best sources to provide the body with the required nourishment is fatty fish. Fishes like salmon and mackerel are great sources of omega-3 fatty acids and should be included in the diet as they help decrease the symptoms of schizophrenia.

Niacin

Studies have shown that vitamin B3 has a significant effect on the progress of schizophrenia and its symptoms. Niacin has been proven to slow down the advancement of this condition and hence, vitamin b3 foods make it to the list of what to eat when you have schizophrenia.

Zinc

Zinc has also been proven to have a close relation to schizophrenia. Low amounts of this mineral in the body can trigger the condition. In order to avoid that, experts suggest the consumption of foods like beef, crabs, lobsters, and oysters that are rich in Zinc and can help keep the symptoms at bay.

Probiotic yogurt

The gut is largely responsible for the body’s smooth functioning. It has also been associated with schizophrenia. Researches have related that bad gut health can be an accountable factor that can lead to the mental health condition. To rectify that, ingesting good probiotics can help deal with it. Yogurt and fermented drinks like kimchi are an amazing source of probiotics. However, since yogurt is a dairy product, and the casein antibodies contained in it can lead to problems, try non-dairy yogurt for your required dose of good bacteria.