Diet, diabetes and schizophrenia: review and hypothesis.

Abstract:

BACKGROUND:

Diabetes is more common in people with schizophrenia than in the general population.

AIMS

To explore the possible reasons for the association between diabetes and schizophrenia.

METHOD:

Diet and other lifestyle factors in patients with schizophrenia were reviewed as risk factors for diabetes.

RESULTS:

People with schizophrenia show features of the metabolic syndrome at the onset of illness, before treatment. They also eat a poor diet, take little exercise and have high rates of smoking. Food intake may be increased further by antipsychotic medication.

Nutritional factors appear to have a key role in the development of diabetes in patients with schizophrenia and may also affect the outcome and severity of schizophrenia. A common pathway through which diet might contribute to the development of both diabetes and schizophrenia is proposed.

CONCLUSIONS:

Lifestyle factors may influence outcomes in both diabetes and schizophrenia. Lifestyle interventions are the key to improving the long-term health of people with schizophrenia.