Schizophrenia is a debilitating disorder that in most cases can lead to psychiatric hospitalization. For many years, medication was the only option and without medication the individual was left to be hospitalized or to be cared for by their loved ones. This article will review some alternative treatments beyond medication.
Amino Acids
Sarcosine is a natural amino acid within the body, and with added supplements of this amino acid it was found to aid those with schizophrenia within a variety of the negative effects of schizophrenia. It is useful by itself or when paired with medication. Naturally this can be found in egg yolk or turkey, but it isn’t enough in quantity to make a lasting effect. An effective dosage starts with 1g and then slowly increase to 2g a day over the course of a couple weeks. D-Serine is also a natural amino acid made in the body that aids with memory. This amino acid is better paired by itself and should not be taken with sarcosine. It can be found in egg, soy, and dairy. An effective dose is a little more than 2g a day.
Antioxidants
N-Acetyl cysteine (NAC) is an antioxidant that helps the cells communicate better. It also aids in cell growth, healing, and metabolism. It has also been found to easily pass the blood brain barrier. An effective dosage is 2g a day. Antioxidants have been found to be of benefit to those with schizophrenia. More specifically, Alpha Lipoic Acid, Vitamin E, and Vitamin C have been found to be most effective. These antioxidants can also be found in blueberries, dried plums, strawberries, and spinach.
Receptors
Melatonin is a chemical produced with sleep within the body. This is decreased in patients with schizophrenia. Taking melatonin can help with patients sleep better. The effective dosage is 0.5mg – 10mg depending on the patient. It can also be found in oats, sweet corn, and rice, but in smaller quantities. The D-Alanine molecule helps to open up N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptors. NMDA receptors are found to open less in those with schizophrenia so this molecule is a big help. Even though this is created naturally through the body, it can be found in meat, dairy, eggs, beans, and grains. An effective dosage is 2g per day.
B-Vitamins and Preventatives
Vitamins B1, B3, B6, B9, and B12 have been found to help in combination with one another based on several studies. Omega-3 is best used as a preventative for those with high risk because it maintains the normal brain chemical structure. In general, Omega-3 is best for all populations. Omega-3 vitamins help prevent cell death which is important for those at risk for schizophrenia. Prenatal Choline is also a preventative and most are found to take it while pregnant as a vitamin supplement. But, it can be found in foods. This can be found in meat, grains, dairy and eggs.
Finally, there are new studies coming out that show cbd e liquid has potentially beneficial benefits for treating schizophrenia as well.
In conclusion, a variety of vitamins, amino acids, receptors, and B-vitamins can help those with schizophrenia when taken by itself or with prescription medication.
