Schizophrenia is a serious mental disorder that causes patients to interpret reality abnormally. It may cause delusions, disinterest in daily activities, lack of motivation, and withdrawal from social activities. Schizophrenia is more often diagnosed in adulthood and less so in childhood, and diagnosis is often marked by a break from one’s reality, or psychosis, caused by a traumatic event. While schizophrenia may be hereditary in some cases, it’s not always passed from parent to child.
Schizophrenia does not discriminate in who it affects, and patients often require specialized treatment plans as they work closely with a mental health care provider. In addition to doctor-prescribed medications, certain foods that are good for brain health can go a long way in helping to manage symptoms, such as:

1. Fresh fruits and berries
These are a no-brainer when it comes to dietary health. Fruits are often high in antioxidants that fight against free radicals, which can also have an effect on the brain by damaging neurons. Antioxidants are also present in berries as well, which can be useful in growing and repairing cells as well as damaged synapses and neural pathways.

2. Sweet potatoes
Also high in antioxidants, these colorful root vegetables pack a punch as they are also high in carbohydrates, a multipurpose nutrient necessary and useful in brain and bodily function. It gives them both energy to power through, and as a bonus adds a colorful splash to any dish.

3. Fatty fish
High in omega 3 fatty acids (DHA and EPA), fish is one of the most highly recommended foods for brain health. Foods like sardines, salmon and anchovies are considered fatty fish and are especially high in these compounds.

4. Shellfish
Shellfish is a food-type that, like antioxidants, can be used to combat free radicals (even in the brain). This is because it has a high concentration of Vitamin E, which can also be used to help protect and nourish the neurons in the brain, as well as helps in the maintaining of neuroplasticity, and the cerebrospinal fluid that also aids in brain protection.

5. Spinach
Spinach, like other leafy greens, are high in Vitamins E, K, D and essential minerals. These foods are good for improving cognitive function, retention, and boosting mental performance. Iron and folic acid are also present, which give the brain power and aids in prevention of other diseases too such as Alzheimer’s and early dementia.

All these great foods are good in the diet and improve overall health and performance, but they are especially good in maintaining brain health and aiding in the prevention of the onset of certain diseases and mental health disorders. In addition to dietary changes, doctors often prescribe medications such as Invega Sustenna as well as Caplyta for schizophrenia, to boost the patient’s quality of life.