Foods to Treat Schizophrenia
When it comes to the treatment of schizophrenia, try natural remedies to minimize the effects of the condition. These natural foods can be had along with the medicines and therapies suggested by the doctor.
- Chamomile tea
Chamomile is loaded with essential minerals and compounds. It has soothing and calming properties that aid in the treatment of schizophrenia. Chamomile can be used as a mood booster or to promote restful sleep for those suffering from schizophrenia. To prepare the tea, take one teaspoon of chamomile in powdered form and add it to one cup of boiling water. Allow it to steep for ten minutes and strain it before drinking. Try to drink this tea daily to soothe your nerves. Daily consumption is proven to reduce and control the symptoms associated with schizophrenia.
- Carrots
Carrots are rich in niacin, which is effective in the treatment of brain disorders. It is advisable to include a carrot in your daily diet. It is better eaten raw or in the form of juice. Some other foods rich in niacin are corn, fish and potatoes.
- Indian gooseberry
Indian gooseberry is a natural antioxidant. It boosts the immune system and gives the body energy to fight against mental disorders like schizophrenia. Gooseberry is rich in niacin too. Gooseberry extracts and powders are available at the supermarkets. Add them to your juices or consume it with plain water.
- Basil leaves
Basil leaves are great healers for the body as they are rich in antioxidants. Combine a quarter teaspoon of basil leaves with half a teaspoon of sage and steep for ten minutes in a cup of boiling water. Strain and drink this basil tea. Regularly drinking this tea promotes brain functionality and helps in controlling the symptoms associated with schizophrenia. Add basil leaves to your curries and pasta.
- Broccoli
Scientists have found that broccoli extracts help to restore the chemical balance in the brain. Broccoli has been proved to increase the levels of the chemicals glutamate and glutathione. Schizophrenia sufferers have low levels of these chemicals. The compound sulforaphane was found to tweak the chemical imbalance in the brains of schizophrenia patients. Add broccoli to your lunch and dinner menus.
- Turmeric
Turmeric has a wide range of pharmacological benefits, including antioxidant and neuroprotective properties. Turmeric was given alongside the regular medication. The patients who were given turmeric showed remarkable signs of improvement. Include turmeric in your cooking. Add it to your gravies. Turmeric is available as turmeric root and turmeric powder. You can also add the powder to your teas and smoothies.
- Spinach
Spinach is loaded with folate. Folic acid is very effective in the treatment of schizophrenia and other brain disorders. A spinach and carrot smoothie in the morning works wonders to ease the symptoms associated with schizophrenia. Consume spinach in the form of soups and gravies. Spinach is one of the best vegetarian sources of vitamin B12.