Food forms a major part of our life, and it is important to keep a watch of what we eat, especially if you have been diagnosed with a chronic mental disorder such as schizophrenia. Apart from the food being a critical factor for maintaining one’s health, it is all the more important for monitoring foods for schizophrenia patients since they need to sustain themselves against the risk of a variety of physical ailments.

Moreover, there is solid scientific evidence that indicates how food plays a significant role in maintaining mental health in addition to physical health. Eating habits change drastically when one is having a schizophrenic episode, and it ends up with the wrong consumption of unhealthy foods. This is why eating the right food is important so that even the medication you take is effective. Here are some basic principles to keep in mind when it comes to maintaining a diet while suffering from schizophrenia:

1. Fresh produce
Begin by adding in the right mix of fruits and vegetables to the diet. Scientists suggest that at least five portions of fresh fruits and veggies should be consumed on a daily basis to maintain the body’s balance. Having just one glass of fresh fruit juice or a serving of dry fruits go a long way in boosting a person’s health.

2. Fiber
While the base of the meal can contain a mix of starchy foods such as pasta, potatoes, or rice, you need to take in higher or richer fiber foods in the likes of potatoes with the skin on or brown rice to ensure a healthier meal. There is no denying the addition of fiber. The minimum serving of fiber essential on a daily basis varies between 18-30mg. When you tend to eat more fiber-rich foods, you feel naturally full and you will not face any issues such as weight gain. Some of the best sources of this type of fiber-rich foods for schizophrenia include brown rice, cereals (muesli), and pasta.

3. Fatty fish
The average serving of fish, especially the oily fish types, includes about three portions per week. Some of the best sources of this particular kind of fish include trout, salmon, mackerel, sardines, herring, and pilchards.

4. Processed foods
Stop consuming saturated fats, salt, and even sugar. When you stop eating food purchased from the store, and start cooking for yourself at home, you can always keep a watch over the ingredients and limit the intake of any harmful elements.

5. Hydrate
Always keep the body well hydrated. In addition to eating the right foods to manage schizophrenia, you need to consume as much water as possible or even juices, milk, or any health drinks so that your energy is not lost. This includes the exclusion of drinks containing caffeine. It is best to avoid alcohol so that your body’s health is not impacted in a negative manner.