Schizophrenia is a severe brain disorder that makes it difficult for patients to tell the differences between real and unreal experiences. Patients with schizophrenia may have hallucinations, delusions, disordered thinking and antisocial behaviors. Proper nutrition in pregnant women may prevent brain damages that can cause schizophrenia in children, according to MayoClinic.
Nutrition and Schizophrenia
Poor nutrition during pregnancy can trigger the development of schizophrenia in children. Schizophrenia can also be triggered by poor nutrition during the early stages of childhood growth and development. Pregnant women should eat a balanced diet containing foods which promote normal growth in the womb. Foods necessary for normal brain growth in the womb includes proteins, complex carbohydrates, vegetables, fats and sugars, according to North Dakota State University. Infants, toddlers and preschoolers should be fed a balanced diet that includes foods that stimulate the normal growth and functioning of the brain. Examples of foods that stimulate brain growth includes fatty fish, proteins, lean meats, milk, dairy products, nuts and fresh fruits. Water and multivitamins are also necessary for normal growth of the brain.
Symptoms of Schizophrenia
Patients with schizophrenia may lose interest in everyday activities. They may seem emotionless and they may neglect personal hygiene. There may be social withdrawal and a reduced ability to plan or complete tasks, memory problems, difficulties paying attention, bizarre movements, anxiety, grimaces and odd facial expressions and rigid muscles and posture, according to PubMedHealth. Symptoms of schizophrenia in children include late walking, language delays, late or unusual crawling and abnormal motor behavior.
Treatment of Schizophrenia
Anti-psychotic medications such as Haldol and Risperdal are used to treat schizophrenia. Schizophrenia is a chronic illness that requires lifelong treatment even when symptoms have subsided, according to MayoClinic.com. Patients who experience severe symptoms of schizophrenia may need to be hospitalized to ensure safety, proper nutrition and proper hygiene.
Side Effects of Antipsychotics
Common side effects of antipsychotics include weight gain, dizziness, sedation, restlessness, tremors, problems with movement, diabetes and high blood pressure, according to MayoClinic.com. Long-term use of anti-psychotics can cause a movement disorder known as tardive dyskinesia. Some patients may be reluctant to take anti-psychotics because of the side effects. Patients who are uncooperative may need to be given anti-psychotics in injections instead of pills.
