Goitre studies revisited, as a marker for schizophrenia, link diets with inadequate seafood, seaweed and protein to schizophrenia

Gaining an understanding of the aetiology of schizophrenia may influence the growing number of children being prescribed antipsychotic drugs. Urbanization features foremost in the literature, however historical documents point to malnourishment. A unique set of data has been uncovered, with the potential to broadly answer this question. Goitre studies, preceding treatment with antipsychotic drugs, acted as a marker for schizophrenia. A review of these studies enabled environmental, public health and dietary variables to be compared between populations in mental hospitals (control) and the rest of New Zealand. Mineral deficiencies in soils enter the food chain through vegetables. In areas of depleted soil mineralization, inadequate diets were present amongst some New Zealanders; relative to those in mental hospitals. Dietary minerals are imperative for enabling the antioxidant defence system to counter stress and maintain neuronal health. The highest concentrations of these minerals, which are required for thyroid hormone production and antioxidant defences, are present in seafood, seaweed, proteins. Here we discuss the relevance of this finding to neuropathology at onset, first episode of psychosis, the prevalence and incidence of schizophrenia and affective disorders. Further work educating stakeholders of the need to eat for brain health would be beneficial for our children.