Based on recent research, people living with psychotic disorders are advised to lower their intake of refined carbohydrates and processed foods.
Diet plays a significant role in overall health and well-being, including mental health. For individuals managing psychotic disorders, nutritional choices can be a crucial part of a holistic approach to care. While dietary recommendations should always be discussed with a healthcare professional, research indicates certain food types are best limited.
According to a scoping review from 2018, similar findings have supported the conclusion that individuals with psychotic disorders should prioritize reducing their consumption of specific foods. This review specifically highlighted that people living with psychotic disorders should lower their intake of refined carbohydrates and processed foods.
Limiting these types of foods can be a practical step towards improving dietary quality.
Foods to Lower Intake Of
The primary categories of foods recommended for reduced intake are:
-
Refined Carbohydrates: These are carbohydrates that have been processed, removing fiber, vitamins, and minerals. They are often found in foods made with white flour or added sugars.
- Examples include:
- White bread, pasta, and rice
- Sugary cereals
- Pastries, cakes, and cookies
- Sweetened beverages (soda, fruit juices with added sugar)
- Candies
- Examples include:
-
Processed Foods: These are foods that have undergone various processes (like canning, freezing, drying, baking) to make them edible, extend shelf life, or improve taste. Highly processed foods often contain added sugars, salt, unhealthy fats, and artificial additives.
- Examples include:
- Fast food
- Processed meats (sausages, bacon, deli meats)
- Packaged snacks (chips, crackers)
- Ready-to-eat meals
- Sugary drinks
- Many packaged baked goods
- Examples include:
Why Limit These Foods?
While the exact mechanisms are complex and still under investigation, reducing the intake of refined carbohydrates and processed foods is generally recommended for better health across various populations. For individuals with psychotic disorders, focusing on nutrient-dense foods while limiting these less nutritious options aligns with broader healthy eating guidelines and supports overall physical health, which is often interconnected with mental well-being.
The same 2018 review also suggested increasing the consumption of plant-based foods, high-fiber foods, and nutrient-dense whole foods, complementing the advice to limit refined and processed items.
Making gradual, sustainable changes to dietary habits, focusing on fresh, whole foods and minimizing refined and processed options, is a practical strategy based on current research findings.
