At least one percent of the country’s population suffers from chronic brain conditions like schizophrenia. Various symptoms characterize this condition such as hallucinations, delusions, problems in clear thinking, and concentration. However, the right treatment options and certain lifestyle changes can help manage the symptoms to a great extent.

For a body to function as it should, you need to consume the right kind of food. Every time you eat, you are either feeding a disease or fighting it. So, apart from medications and therapy, you need to know about the foods to eat for schizophrenia so that you can manage the symptoms better. Eating healthy is the chief weapon in our arsenal to ward off physical and mental diseases and schizophrenia is no exception.

The key to managing the symptoms of this condition is to eat a well-balanced diet consisting of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, fish, nuts, and seeds.

Best foods to eat for schizophrenia

Fruits and vegetables
The best way to treat almost any disease is to include a generous amount of fruits and vegetables in your diet (at least five portions per day or more). Fruits and vegetables are rich in many essential vitamins and minerals and are packed with fiber, which aids in digestion. They keep your blood sugar and cholesterol levels in check, too. Fruits like apples, pears, berries, and vegetables like spinach, sweet potatoes, kidney beans, and lima beans are top foods to eat for schizophrenia.

Add fiber with your carbs
The main problem with modern-day diets is the lack of fiber. So notch up the fiber intake to about 18-30 grams daily. Fiber fills you up quickly and helps in weight loss, too. Foods such as brown rice, wheat bran, oats, and whole-grains contain high amounts of fiber and are one of the best foods to eat for schizophrenia.

Stock on up omega-3
Omega-3 fatty acids are the most potent fuel for your brain. So what does that signify? Make sure that there is more fish on your plate and add at least three portions of oily fish every week to your diet. The brain-friendly variety include mackerel, salmon, herring, trout, and sardines. If you do not like consuming fish, you can try some supplements; however, eating fish is considered more effective.

Cut down on the bad foods
Ditch foods that are high in saturated fats and sugar, such as cakes, biscuits, pastries, and fries. Ice creams and chocolates should be avoided as much as possible. Substitute these with fruits or yogurt instead.

Drink more water
This goes without a saying; water is the ultimate boon for life. Keeping your body hydrated at all times is one way of reducing the symptoms. Drink at least 1.2 liters of water and more when it is hot or when you are exercising. If you are unsure of how much water you should consume, check water-intake calculators online.

Add and avoid the above-mentioned foods for schizophrenia and curb the symptoms of this condition to a great extent.