To follow is the abstract for some interesting research by Malcolm Peet- the whole research paper is downloadable from this site here
http://bjp.rcpsych.org/cgi/content/full/184/5/404
Background Dietary variations are known to predictthe prevalence of physical illnesses such as diabetes and heart disease but the possible influence of diet on mental health has been neglected.
Aims To explore dietary predictors of the outcome of schizophrenia and the prevalence of depression.
Method Ecological analysis of national dietary patterns in relation to international variations in outcome of schizophrenia and prevalence of depression.
Results A higher national dietary intake of refined sugar and dairy products predicted a worse 2-year outcome of schizophrenia. A high national prevalence of depression was predicted by a low dietary intake of fish and seafood.
Conclusions The dietary predictors of outcome of schizophrenia and prevalence of depression are similar to those that predict illnesses such as coronary heart disease and diabetes, which are more common in people with mental health problems and in which nutritional approaches are widely recommended. Dietary intervention studies are indicated in schizophrenia and depression.
