People with schizophrenia can show a variety of symptoms, including hallucinations, delusions, mood swings, and disordered speech or behavior. The cause of schizophrenia, like with most mental illness, is unknown. Although the conventional treatment for the condition is antipsychotic medications, studies have proven that food has an important role in the treatment procedure. Some foods are best avoided by people with schizophrenia, and here we list some of these foods to avoid for managing the condition:

• Stimulants : Those with schizophrenia are most likely to have diabetes and blood sugar problems, and stimulants like amphetamines or caffeine can induce schizophrenia. So, people with schizophrenia need to stay away from foods that contain caffeine, refined carbohydrates, alcohol, and cigarettes. Stimulants affect the ability of one’s body to maintain healthy blood sugar levels, so they are a big no-no for patients of schizophrenia.
• Bread : Wheat can be a huge sensitivity factor in people with certain mental health conditions like schizophrenia. Studies show that the condition improved in some people when they avoided bread. It is also believed that people with schizophrenia fare better when put on a gluten-free diet.
• Refined sugar : People with schizophrenia face a higher risk of developing diabetes, and the symptoms can be eased if they follow a diet with foods that are low on the glycemic index. Refined sugar can be found in most bakery items like cake, cupcakes, and muffins, and it can also be found in sweetened beverages and almost all types of candy. These sugary items are among the most important foods to avoid for people with schizophrenia.
• Refined carbohydrates : Refined carbohydrates refer to the bad carbohydrates that everyone should ideally stay away from. Refined carbohydrates are present in foods like bread, regular pasta, potatoes, white rice, instant oatmeal, sugary breakfast cereals, corn or potato chips, and cornflakes. For people with schizophrenia, these foods can also induce mood swings and should be avoided. Switching to foods that contain complex carbohydrates is a better option, as it will keep their blood sugar levels in check and help them lead a healthier life.
• Foods with gluten : Studies have shown that a gluten-free diet is helpful for people with schizophrenia. Gluten is harmful to gut health and also affects one’s immunity, along with triggering mood swings. Some of the foods to avoid for people with schizophrenia as they contain gluten are wheat, couscous, semolina, barley, oats, chicken broth, malt vinegar, soy sauce, and some spice mixes. Keeping away from foods that contain gluten is one of the most effective diet tips for managing schizophrenia effectively.

Avoiding the consumption of the above-mentioned foods can help a person with schizophrenia prevent certain symptoms associated with the disease and lead a healthy life while coping with the condition in the best way possible.