
6 Inadvisable Eating Habits for Schizophrenia Patients
Schizophrenia is mainly characterized by symptoms like hallucinations, tremors, mood disorders, rage issues, and anxiety. People with this condition have to be on treatment all their life. Food habits play a role in making the condition better or worse. Here is a list of foods for schizophrenia and eating habits that can worsen the condition.
1. Eating for Comfort
A lot of schizophrenia patients start eating for comfort and to feel good about themselves. As a result, they start gaining weight and obesity causes other physical and mental issues. Depending on food for comfort is a habit that schizophrenia patients definitely have to stay away from.
2. Starving
If one category of these patients end up binge eating, others start starving themselves and getting anorexic. This becomes a bigger eating disorder to deal with. Starvation can make mood swings worse. Eating healthy foods for schizophrenia and avoiding starvation will help deal with the condition better.
3. Excess Takeout Food
Ordering a lot of takeaways is something schizophrenics should avoid. Takeaways are loaded with sugar, trans fat, and unhealthy ingredients. These can lead to weight gain, diabetes, and cardiovascular problems. Home-cooked food is healthier and cheaper. Moreover, cooking can become a pastime that schizophrenics can look forward to
4. High Sugar Consumption
Consuming pastries and sweets once in a while is alright. However, these foods are loaded with sugar and some studies show a sugar imbalance or a sugar rush can make the symptoms of schizophrenia worse. When it comes to foods for schizophrenia, a balanced meal that’s low in sugar is a better choice.
5. Consuming Excess Frozen and Processed Foods
Fresh fruits, vegetables, and grains have a lot of antioxidants and vitamins, and minerals in them, which are very healthy for people with this mental health condition. One may not get these nutrients if they buy canned, processed, or frozen foods. They must make it a habit to visit their nearest farmer’s market and buy fresh ingredients to feel better and eat better.
6. Choosing Simple Over Complex Carbs
Schizophrenics are already at risk of developing health conditions like diabetes and cardiovascular problems. One is at a greater risk they consistently choose simple carbs over complex carbs. Simple carbs give a sugar rush to the body, which is again a problem. Complex carbohydrates keep one fuller for a longer time and help balance blood sugar levels too.
One needs to make a note of all these foods for schizophrenia and food habits and incorporate them to see a change in the condition. It is important to note that such food habits are not an alternative to medications. Medications have to be continued until the doctor says so.