It is advisable to follow a healthy and well-balanced diet. A good diet is perhaps more important for patients diagnosed with schizophrenia, as such people typically experience other physical ailments, like diabetes, obesity, heart problems, high blood pressure, or respiratory problems. So, knowing the top mood-stabilizing foods for schizophrenia can be useful in controlling the condition.

Which are the top mood-stabilizing foods for schizophrenia patients?

A common problem with patients who have schizophrenia is weight gain that is often triggered because of antipsychotic medicines. For instance, drugs like zotepine and olanzapine are known to have severe side-effects in terms of obesity. Because of this unwanted weight gain, the likelihood of developing diabetes or heart problems automatically increases. Here are some of the best mood-stabilizing foods for schizophrenia patients.

1. Fruits
   It is seen that people with this condition usually get less dietary fiber; so, consuming more fruits, like apples, raspberries, and pears, is highly recommended for them. The fiber in these foods can reduce the “bad” cholesterol and improve digestion. When you eat a fiber-rich diet, you can control many of the health issues associated with schizophrenia, like obesity, heart problems, and Type 2 diabetes.
2. Vegetables
   These foods are low in calories and fat and rich in nutrients and vitamins. This is why patients are advised to eat more veggies in their meals. Vegetables, such as kidney beans, lima beans, and sweet potatoes, are also rich potassium sources that help regulate blood glucose levels.
3. Fatty fish
   Salmon and fatty fish, like mackerel, tuna, sardines, and anchovies, are excellent sources of omega-3 fatty acids that can ease and prevent schizophrenia symptoms. It is also useful for slowing down the disease’s progression.
4. Seeds
   Pumpkin seeds and flax seeds are also rich sources of mega-3 fatty acids; these can be ground and used for garnishing salads.
5. Zinc-rich foods
   Experts believe that low zinc levels can have an adverse effect on people who have schizophrenia. Zinc is available in foods like fortified cereals and beef, and also in supplements. You should, however, consult your physician before taking these.
6. Chicken
   Research suggests that the vitamin niacin found in chicken can help slow down the advancement of the condition. It can also ease many of its symptoms. You can get niacin from chicken and marinara sauce.
7. Spinach
   Dark green leafy veggies like spinach are effective for stabilizing moods experienced by people with schizophrenia. Spinach is very rich in folate or folic acid that is used for fortifying foods and in supplements. Folate is known to ease schizophrenia symptoms and can be found in spinach, black-eyed peas, beef liver, asparagus, etc.
8. Non-dairy yogurt
   Research has often linked schizophrenia symptoms with bad gut bacteria. This is why it helps to get more prebiotics in your system. Prebiotics are readily available in vegetables and fruits, and the “live culture” prebiotics are found in foods like yogurt, sauerkraut, and kimchi.