Schizophrenia is a long-term (chronic) mental condition that can affect how you think and feel. It can also have an impact on the way you perceive reality.
While there’s no specific test for schizophrenia, genetic and environmental factors are thought to increase your risk of developing this condition.
Medications such as antipsychotics are among the most common treatment methods for schizophrenia. Alternative treatments such as herbal remedies, dietary changes, and vitamins can also help manage symptoms.
A 2018 systematic review found that natural remedies such as ginkgo biloba and vitamin B6 could help lower schizophrenia symptoms.
It’s important to speak with a healthcare professional before combining natural remedies with antipsychotics. This is to make sure natural remedies don’t interfere with any medications you’re taking.
It’s important to note that natural remedies are not an alternative to medication. And it’s advisable that you don’t stop them without guidance from a healthcare professional.
1. Ashwagandha
Ashwagandha is an Ayurvedic herb that has been used for centuries to treat various conditions. It’s thought to have properties that can support brain function and lower symptoms such as:
- inflammation
- pain
- anxiety
A 2018 study conducted a 12-week trial to find the effects of combining ashwagandha with antipsychotic medications. After 4 weeks, participants reported a significant improvement in their symptoms, including:
- being better able to socialize
- having less difficulty with speech
- expressing emotions more effectively
Participants also reported a noticeable reduction in general psychiatric-related symptoms like depression and anxiety. The side effects of ashwagandha were mild and intermittent. And the most commonly reported side effect was feelings of drowsiness.
2. Ginkgo biloba
Ginkgo biloba is a tree native to China. It’s commonly used as a supplement. This is because it’s rich in antioxidants and has the potential to help slow cognitive decline.
While more research is needed, studies have shown promising results for patients with schizophrenia. Ginkgo biloba may also benefit people when used alongside antipsychotics.
It’s important to speak with a healthcare professional before taking supplements. This is to make sure the supplements don’t interfere with any medications you’re taking.
Ginkgo biloba may help with positive symptoms, such as hallucinations and delusions.
Like with most treatments, the supplement does have potential side effects, such as:
- unusual behavior caused by medication (behavioral toxicity)
- uncontrolled or involuntary movements like twitching (tardive dyskinesia)
- constipation
- weight gain
Further research is still needed to understand the effectiveness of taking Ginkgo biloba for improving schizophrenia symptoms.
3. Vitamin B
Taking vitamin B supplements alongside antipsychotic medications has shown improvement in some symptoms.
A 2018 systematic review, which examined the effectiveness of several types of B vitamins in varying combinations, found improvements in both positive and negative symptoms.
A 2019 study found that several types of B vitamins can help improve the neurocognition of people with schizophrenia. These include:
- vitamin B6
- vitamin B12
- vitamin B9
It’s important to know that several side effects were reported for vitamin B12 and B6, such as skin flushing and abnormal liver function. Some reviews also found that it took 6 months before seeing any changes in behavior or symptoms.
4. Vitamin E
The 2018 systematic review, consisting of 13 studies, also explored the benefits of taking vitamin E to help lower schizophrenia symptoms. Almost half of these studies showed a decrease in symptoms such as:
- facial tics
- involuntary movements
- tardive dyskinesia
It was also noted that people who experienced short-term tardive dyskinesia benefitted the most.
In two studies, only mild diarrhea was reported as a side effect, but no adverse effects were found overall.
5. Dietary changes
If you have schizophrenia, you may be more sensitive to certain foods that cause inflammation in the body, such as wheat gluten.
Increased levels of inflammation in the blood and the nervous system are linked to psychiatric conditions like schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. According to research from 2019, inflammation and schizophrenia may be closely linked and can contribute to each other.
Foods to avoid
To lower chronic inflammation, you may want to avoid or limit these foods or liquids from your diet:
- sugary drinks, such as soda, fruit juice, and other high sugar beverages
- desserts with high sugar content, such as:
- candy
- cake
- cookies
- ice cream
- processed meats, such as sausages and burgers
- alcohol (too much consumption can increase chronic inflammation)
- refined carbohydrates, such as white bread, rice, and pasta
Foods that may help
Certain foods may help you manage other risk factors associated with schizophrenia. A 2016 review found that people with chronic mental health conditions had an increased risk of developing further conditions such as:
- cardiovascular disease
- metabolic disease
- diabetes
- respiratory illnesses, such as pulmonary fibrosis and pneumonia
A 2019 review found that a ketogenic diet may help you manage symptoms of schizophrenia. A ketogenic diet includes the following:
- fish
- cheese
- seafood
- eggs
- green leafy vegetables
Medication options
Doctors usually prescribe antipsychotics to help treat symptoms of schizophrenia. These medications are generally taken long term. They can help manage dopamine levels in the brain that often contribute to schizophrenia symptoms.
First-generation antipsychotics
First-generation antipsychotics are dopamine receptor antagonists. They can help lower positive symptoms, such as hallucinations and delusions.
First-generation antipsychotics can sometimes have frequent and significant side effects, such as:
- tardive dyskinesia
- dry mouth
- constipation
- urinary retention
It is important to know that many first-generation antipsychotics have been discontinued and have also been found to increase the mortality risk for those with dementia-related psychosis. A doctor is more likely to prescribe a second-generation antipsychotic.
Second-generation antipsychotics
These medications are serotonin-dopamine antagonists and can help reduce both positive and negative symptoms.
Examples of this medication include:
- olanzapine (Zyprexa)
- clozapine (Clozaril)
- quetiapine (Seroquel)
As they’re newer than first-generation antipsychotics, they often have fewer side effects.
The most common side effects include:
- weight gain
- dizziness
- lack of energy or motivation (lethargy)
- dry mouth
- feeling sleepy during the day
If you find that side effects from taking antipsychotics are affecting your day-to-day life, consider speaking with a healthcare professional. They can help identify whether an alternative medication or dosage may be more suitable for you.
If you need help covering the cost of medications, the free Optum Perks Discount Card could help you save up to 80% on prescription drugs. Follow the links on drug names for savings on that medication, or search for a specific drug here.
