Nutrition, nutritional deficiencies, and schizophrenia: An association worthy of constant reassessment

Abstract

Schizophrenia is a mental health disorder that occurs worldwide, cutting across cultures, socioeconomic groups, and geographical barriers. Understanding the details of the neurochemical basis of schizophrenia, factors that contribute to it and possible measures for intervention are areas of ongoing research. However, what has become more evident is the fact that in targeting the neurochemical imbalances that may underlie schizophrenia, the type of response seen with currently available phamacotherapeutic agents does not provide all the answers that are needed. Therefore, the possible contribution of non-pharmacological approaches to schizophrenia management is worthy of consideration. In recent times, research is beginning to show nutrition may play a possibly significant role in schizophrenia, affecting its development, progression and management; however, while attempts had been made to examine this possible relationship from different angles, articles addressing it from a holistic point of view are not common. In this review, we examine existing scientific literature dealing with the possible relationship between nutrition and schizophrenia, with a view to elucidating the impact of diet, nutritional deficiencies and excesses on the aetiology, progression, management and outcome of schizophrenia. Secondly, the effect of nutritional supplements in prevention, as sole therapy, or adjuncts in schizophrenia management are examined.

Gut–brain axis volatile organic compounds derived from breath distinguish between schizophrenia and major depressive disorder

“…No significant association was found, which points to a more complex pathogenesis. Nevertheless, nutrition is most altered in patients with schizophrenia even relative to other psychiatric disorders, 45 which suggests a possible influence on the microbiome and subsequently on TMA and butyric acid levels through a disturbed diet.…”

The Role of D-Serine and D-Aspartate in the Pathogenesis and Therapy of Treatment-Resistant Schizophrenia

“…Sch is one of the most common mental disorders that affects the working population in many countries; although, incidence rates range from 0.2% in some African countries (Central African Republic, Somalia) to 0.5% in the USA, Australia and New Zealand [ 111 ]. Although some of the differences in these epidemiological rates may be due to different approaches and timing of the diagnosis of this mental disorder, differences in the prevalence of Sch can also be explained by studies that demonstrate that the lack of certain nutrients in the diet can contribute to the development of Sch as an additional externally modifiable risk factor [ 112 , 113 ]. Notably, some authors have shown that deficiencies in essential vitamins, minerals and polyunsaturated fatty acids are often reported in the population, but rarely in patients with Sch [ 114 , 115 , 116 ].…”

Sugars, Alcohol, and Caffeine Intake From Drinks Among Outpatients With Mental Health Disorders in Greece: A Pilot Study

“…Many studies have suggested the link between diet and mental health [4][5][6]. Depression has been associated with unhealthy lifestyles, including alcohol drinking and poor dietary patterns.…”

“…SSDs have been associated with a higher prevalence of depression and anxiety [ 10 ]. In addition, high sugar intake has also been reported in patients with schizophrenia and can predict the severity of schizophrenia symptoms [ 6 ]. Therefore, reduction or abstinence from sugar-containing drinks may be an appropriate public health strategy not only to support those aiming to achieve healthy body weight [ 11 ] but also to reduce the risk or severity of depression and anxiety, and schizophrenia symptoms in psychiatric patients.…”