People with schizophrenia often tend to have an unhealthy diet. Bad eating habits cause health problems that aggravate one’s risk for heart diseases and diabetes. However, studies prove that making changes in your diet can be advantageous. Here is a list of six mood-stabilizing foods for schizophrenia that you can include in your diet.

1. Omega-3 fatty acids

Usually, schizophrenia patients have an overall deficiency of Omega-3 fatty acid, which is primarily present in nuts, and flax seeds. Omega-3 fatty acid helps improve immune and nervous system functions as it contains a compound known as EPA.

2. Whole grains

Whole grains are not only great for your digestive system but also your heart. They have a calming impact on the mind. Whole grains contain carbs that boost serotonin production in the brain. It is a feel-good brain chemical, which eases anxiety, and ensures that you feel in control. Thus, anytime you feel overwhelmed or a bit jittery, all you have to do is take some whole grain crackle and get munching. Some other options that you can add to your diet are oatmeal, whole-grain toast, quinoa, brown rice, and whole-grain pasta.

3. Selenium-rich foods

Selenium is a component that is vital for your brain’s health. It is known to work positively and is one of the best mood-stabilizing foods for schizophrenia.   Several medical experts link selenium deficiency to anxiety and depression. On average, an adult needs approximately 55 micrograms of selenium in their diet. You can meet your requisite selenium requirement via the consumption of Brazil nuts. These nuts are replete with selenium. A single Brazilian nut has approximately 96 mcg of selenium.   

4. Beans

Do you know what is common in lentils, soybeans, lima beans, chickpeas, and black beans? They all are rich in magnesium and belong to the family of legumes. Researchers have proven that magnesium lowers the symptoms of schizophrenia, especially in people who experience bipolar disorder. More research is needed on the impact of beans on mood, but regardless of that addition of beans will never hurt your diet. Beans are nutrient-dense and have a high fiber content. Please know that you may feel gassy if you suddenly include beans in your diet initially.

5. Herbal tea

For many decades, chamomile has been included in people’s diets to overcome anxiety, stomach issues, and insomnia. Chamomile is also known to help you deal with schizophrenia and anxiety. Even though it is not proven to better your mood, it will surely soothe your mind.

6. Saffron

It is a thread-like spice, which is red in color, and a staple inclusion in many Mediterranean dishes. Saffron is also widely used in medicines and is known to have antidepressant properties and a soothing effect. Several researchers even conclude that saffron extract is as effective as Prozac, which is a common antidepressant.