Schizophrenia, a mental illness, affects approximately 1% of the population in the country. People who suffer from schizophrenia can suffer from symptoms such as hallucinations and a lack of motivation and clear thinking. When managing patients with schizophrenia, food plays an important role. Herein, we list foods that should schizophrenia patients be completely eliminate from their meals.

1. Bread
Bread and dishes made from bread should be on the list of avoided foods for schizophrenia. Many experts are of the opinion that gluten (an important protein that is found in wheat) sensitivity can aggravate mental health conditions such as schizophrenia. In fact, a study claimed that people suffering from schizophrenia reported improvement after switching to a gluten-free nutrition regimen. Those suffering from this mental illness must try gluten-free foods after talking to a medical practitioner and observe the results.

2. Refined Sugar
Refined sugar is considered unhealthy for even completely healthy people and more for people suffering from schizophrenia. Studies have shown that people suffering from schizophrenia are generally poor eaters and end up choosing unhealthy foods that have a high glycemic index. Thus, these people are at a higher risk of developing diabetes. It is advised that refined sugar in any form should be on the list of worst foods for schizophrenia. People suffering from schizophrenia should thus avoid cakes, cookies, sweetened beverages, candy, etc.

3. Artificial Sweeteners
People who give up on refined sugar often resort to artificial sweeteners. However, for those suffering from mental disorders, artificial sweeteners should be on the list of banned foods for schizophrenia. Artificial sugars are often linked to depression and people with schizophrenia should avoid it at all costs. Instead, they can opt for natural fruits if they crave sugary food.

4. Cheese
This one is up for contention as dairy products are said to be inflammation-causing in some while being anti-inflammatory for some. Schizophrenia patients try avoiding cheese and other dairy products for a few weeks and observe the result it has on your mental well being.

5. Processed Foods
All kinds of processed foods are better kept away from people who suffer from schizophrenia. Most processed food contains soybean and corn oil and increases the amount of omega-6 in the system. This has an adverse effect and can flare up schizophrenia. Hence, all processed food such as wafers, fries, and cookies should be avoided.

Schizophrenia is a mental illness like many others and can be effectively managed with the help of a medical practitioner and a proper food regime. Avoiding food that triggers episodes of psychosis can help manage this mental disorder.