Nutritional Considerations for Schizophrenia

Schizophrenia is a mental health condition typically treated with drugs that prevent psychosis (antipsychotic drugs) and psychotherapy. But lifestyle changes also may have a positive impact schizophrenia. One change that might have an effect on schizophrenia symptoms is diet and nutrition.^1,2

How does nutrition and diet affect schizophrenia?

Research on the link between nutrition and schizophrenia is very limited. There is no proven relationship between nutrition and schizophrenia. However, some research has looked at whether nutrition may impact the disease. There are 3 theories about the possible link between nutrition and schizophrenia.^1,3

Nutrient levels

First, some research has shown that people with schizophrenia have lower levels of certain nutrients in their bodies. These include types of vitamins B and C, vitamins have important roles in the body. Deficiencies in them might be related to developing schizophrenia.^1,3

Diet and inflammation

Second, some research has linked inflammation triggered by the immune system to schizophrenia. It is possible that an unhealthy diet could contribute to this inflammation. This might increase the risk of schizophrenia in some people.^1,3

Schizophrenia and gut health

Third, schizophrenia may be linked to gut health. Our guts are full of lots of organisms, collectively called the gut microbiome, that have a big effect on our health. Nutrition has a big impact on the gut microbiome. And research shows that the gut microbiome can impact the brain.^1,3

People with schizophrenia tend to have different types of gut microbiomes than other people. So, there may be a link between the gut microbiome and schizophrenia.^1,3

But these are just theories

It is important to note that none of these theories are proven. It is not clear that the food you eat could cause you to develop schizophrenia. But some links have been established between nutrition and conditions related to schizophrenia.^1-3

How does nutrition impact conditions linked to schizophrenia?

People with schizophrenia often have other serious conditions like heart disease, obesity, and diabetes. These conditions have a proven link to diet. It is not clear exactly why schizophrenia is related to higher rates of heart disease or diabetes. Possible reasons for this link include:^1-3

• Antipsychotic drugs may cause high blood pressure or too much fat or sugar in the blood. These both increase the risk of developing heart disease or diabetes.
• People with schizophrenia are more likely to smoke, which also increases the chance of developing heart disease.
• People with schizophrenia are less likely to be active. Healthy levels of exercise reduce the risk of conditions like heart disease or diabetes.

Luckily, good nutrition can help cancel out these risks. A healthy diet helps lower the risk of many complications of schizophrenia.^1,3

Diet changes for schizophrenia

Changing your diet cannot prevent or treat schizophrenia by itself. But making healthy changes to your diet can lower your risk of other complications. Focusing on the following foods can reduce the risk of heart disease, obesity, and diabetes:^2,3

• Fruits and vegetables
• Whole grains
• Poultry, like chicken, instead of red meat
• Fish
• Legumes, like beans

Other lifestyle changes can help people with schizophrenia maintain their overall health. These include quitting smoking and trying to stay active with moderate exercise. It is also possible that vitamin B or C supplements may help treat schizophrenia symptoms. But talk with your doctor before starting any vitamins or supplements. Do not stop taking any prescribed drugs without first asking your doctor.^2,3