Schizophrenia is a chronic mental illness where the individuals are unable to differentiate between reality and hallucinations and delusions. It leads to extreme mood swings and changes in one’s personality, along with behavior that may render them unable to function normally. There is no cure yet for the condition and its progress can only be controlled via medication and therapy. In addition to these forms of treatments, maintaining a healthy lifestyle and diet can also help one manage the condition. This can also ensure they are not at risk of complications such as diabetes or cardiovascular diseases that can further hamper treatment.

Here are 9 foods to eat for schizophrenia patients which can go a long way in helping keep the condition under control.

Fiber-rich diets
Most people with schizophrenia do not get enough fiber according to the research. Bad cholesterol can be lowered with the help of fiber and it also aids in digestion. These diets reduce the chances of health problems associated with schizophrenia such as diabetes, obesity, and heart diseases. Fruits such as raspberries, pears, and apples are a great source of fiber and healthy vitamins.

Potassium-rich foods
Foods rich in potassium help to keep the blood sugar in check. Vegetables like lima beans, kidney beans, and sweet potatoes are some options that are fiber and potassium-rich, low in fat and calories, and are also without any bad cholesterol.

Foods with omega-3 fatty acids
Omega-3 fatty is not produced by the body naturally and can only be gotten via food or supplements. It is important to add omega-3 fatty acid-rich foods like salmon and mackerel in the diet of a schizophrenia patient as it helps to prevent the symptoms of the disease and even slows down its progress.

Niacin-rich foods
According to research, niacin, or vitamin B3 helps to slow down the advance of schizophrenia and also helps to ease its symptoms. It is therefore important to add foods that contain it in abundance such as chicken, marinara sauce, eggs, and legumes.

Foods that contain zinc
Research believes that there may be a connection between low levels of zinc in the body and this brain disorder. It is thereby advised for people with schizophrenia to eat foods rich in this nutrient. Foods that contain abundant amounts of zinc are oysters, crabs, and lobsters. It is also found in fortified cereals and beef.

Foods with vitamin B12
There is an established connection between the lack or low levels of vitamin B12 and psychosis. As B12 metabolism is believed to be altered in people with schizophrenia, having the nutrient along with folic acid is said to help manage the condition and improve its negative symptoms. Clams, liver, trout, and certain types of bread are sources of this vitamin.

Folic acid-rich foods
Folic acid also helps to ease the symptoms of schizophrenia and should be added to their diet. Spinach is high in it and the nutrient can also be found in black-eyed peas, asparagus, and beef liver.

Vitamin D-rich foods
Though vitamin D is produced mainly from exposure to the sun, it is naturally available in cod liver oil, swordfish, and salmon which are foods that should be added to diets of schizophrenia patients.

Prebiotics and Probiotics-rich foods
Certain research has linked bad gut bacteria to schizophrenia. Fruits and vegetables are filled with prebiotics while yogurt, kimchi, and sauerkraut are rich in live culture probiotics and should be added to the diet of individuals suffering from the condition.