A severe mental disorder, schizophrenia impacts how an individual thinks, reacts to emotions, and perceives reality. It results in a variety of symptoms including delusions, hallucinations, and paranoia that can cause the patient to isolate themselves from the rest of the world. At present, roughly 1% of the total population suffer from this mental disorder. Schizophrenia cannot be cured, however, it can be managed with the help of medications and therapy. This disorder can affect anyone. It typically develops in men during their late teens or early twenties. On the other hand, in women, the symptoms of schizophrenia begin to surface during their twenties or early thirties. The following are some commonly observed symptoms of this condition: Delusions:  People suffering from schizophrenia often have delusions that can impair their day-to-day life. For example, they might believe they are being subjected to unjust prejudice, or they are exceptionally famous, or a big disaster is about to occur. Hallucinations:  Typically, patients experiencing schizophrenia mention seeing things or hearing sounds and/or voices that don’t exist. Hallucinations can also involve smelling strange odors or experiencing odd sensations in the body. Disorganized speech:  Schizophrenia impairs the brain’s ability to think clearly which leads to disorganized speech.

It has been observed that those who have schizophrenia, a chronic psychological illness, usually have diets that are unhealthy, low in fiber and fruit, and high in saturated fats. Unhealthy eating habits typically lead to other health problems which can also put people with schizophrenia at high risk for diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and more. According to research, dietary changes do really help manage schizophrenia. Here are some best and worst foods for schizophrenia. Foods to eat Fruits Many studies show that people with schizophrenia usually do not get enough fiber, and thus, need to eat fruits. Some of the best sources of fiber are apples, pears, and raspberries. Fiber not only helps reduce bad cholesterol but also helps in digestion, thereby reducing the chances of certain health problems associated with schizophrenia such as obesity, diabetes, and heart disease. Vegetables Vegetables don’t have heart-heavy cholesterol, are packed with essential vitamins and fiber, and are low in calories and fat. Veggies like sweet potatoes, kidney beans, and lima beans contain potassium that could help in keeping blood sugar in check. The best food for schizophrenia is spinach as it is high in folate, which could help in easing symptoms of schizophrenia. Apart from spinach, folate can also be found in asparagus and black-eyed peas.

A mental health disorder, schizophrenia, can alter the patient’s ability to behave conventionally, feel, and even think. There is no known cure for the condition, but treatment plans are designed for better management. Apart from following a prescribed treatment plan, patients are often advised to make changes to their lifestyle and eating habits. It is believed that adding or removing certain foods can help manage symptoms and decrease their severity. Gluten-rich foods Gluten is a natural protein found in several foods that are regularly consumed by the population. Increased inflammation in the body is also a leading cause of the aggravation of symptoms associated with schizophrenia. It can also put patients with gluten sensitivity, intolerance, or celiac disease at a high risk of developing conditions like intestinal complications, anxiety, depression, and ADHD. Health care experts advise using grains, bread, and other food products that are 100% gluten-free in order to avoid developing complications. Replacements made from potato flour, rice flour, quinoa, or corn are safer for patients. This helps prevent the increased antibody production and action caused in the body due to gluten. Processed foods There is a reason behind the bad reputation of highly processed foods. One of the most important reasons is their lack of nutritional content.

Schizophrenia is a term used to signify a spectrum of disorders that involve a disconnection from reality. Its symptoms include paranoia, delusions, and hallucinations. It is a serious but treatable disorder, and patients can live a healthy and fulfilling life. Schizophrenia is also a particular mental health condition that falls under the spectrum mentioned above. According to the World Health Organization, schizophrenia affects approximately 1 in 300 people across the globe. Stages and symptoms of schizophrenia The condition can be broadly divided into three stages. Each of these stages has a different level or intensity of symptoms. Prodrome or onset is when patients have mild symptoms. It can be identified by signs like lack of personal hygiene, anxiety, and social withdrawal. The active stage is when the symptoms are more intense, and the patient has been disconnecting from reality. The following symptoms can be observed during the active phase: Depression Depression is a common health condition that is a cause for concern. Individuals who are depressed and lack trust in others or have misplaced distrust in others can be considered at a greater risk of schizophrenia. Other signs that can be present along with depression include increased pessimism and delusions.