Complementary and Alternative Treatments for Schizophrenia
is a chronic brain disorder. It can cause multiple symptoms, including:
- breaking from reality
- flat affect
for the condition typically includes antipsychotic medications. Other than
medication, treatment may include therapy, groups, psychoeducation, and
rehabilitation. In addition to these standard treatments, there are also other
terms “complementary” and “alternative” treatments are often used interchangeably.
However, the truth is that they are actually two different types of treatments.
Complementary treatments are non-mainstream treatments used in conjunction with
traditional treatments. Alternative treatment is when traditional medicine is
not used and non-mainstream approaches are used instead.
is important in controlling schizophrenia, so supplemental or complementary
treatments should not replace care from a psychiatrist or doctor. Before using
any complementary or alternative medicine (CAM) or treatment, talk with your
doctor to see if it’s safe.
A process called methylation
helps maintain the correct chemical balance in the brain. If there are high
levels of the amino acid homocysteine, this process may be abnormal. According
to Food for the Brain, patients with schizophrenia have shown high
levels of homocysteine and low blood levels of folic acid. Vitamin B12 and
methyl B12, which is easier to absorb, may show benefit in those with
Vitamins A, C, and E may also
alleviate symptoms of schizophrenia.
Fish Oil Supplements
oil is a rich source of omega-3 fatty acids. According to the American College of Neuropsychopharmacology, studies
have noted that certain brain processes in people with schizophrenia may be
fueled by fatty acids. For this reason, fish oil is being studied as a
treatment. According to the National Alliance
on Mental Illness, (NAMI), one study found that long-chain omega-3 fatty
acids may mitigate psychosis in young adults. More research and studies need to
be conducted to definitively establish any value.
is a protein building block, or an amino acid. It works with glutamine, which
aids in brain function. Some studies have found that high doses of glycine
supplementation can increase the efficacy of antipsychotics for schizophrenia. However,
a notable exception is if it is used with clozapine, in which case it actually
decreases the effectiveness of the drug.
may decrease negative symptoms of schizophrenia, like flat affect or
depression. More research needs to be done to verify its benefit in treating
diet has been found to reduce symptoms of schizophrenia in some studies. A
ketogenic diet showed the same results. A ketogenic diet is a high-fat,
low-carbohydrate diet that also includes high-protein foods. This should not be
used in place of medication. More research needs to be done on the relationship
between diet and schizophrenia. Always talk to your doctor before making
significant changes to your diet.
Talk to Your Doctor About CAM Treatments
and alternative treatments are certainly options you can choose to help treat
schizophrenia. If you choose complementary treatments, tell your doctor what
you are planning on taking. Even natural supplements can interfere with
medications. Alternative treatments are not always evidence-based and can be
dangerous. Talk with your doctor about alternative treatments. Ask about their
effectiveness and safety, and discuss your reasons for pursuing alternative options.