Abstract
Introduction: Schizophrenia patients, receiving new generation antipsychotics, many times suffer
from obesity sometimes leading to metabolic syndrome. Diet and fitness programs which
reduce weight should be combined in the treatment plan of these patients. This study
evaluated patients’ adherence and the effect of a diet and fitness program in schizophrenia
patients treated with typical vs. atypical antipsychotics.
Methods: 106 stabilized schizophrenia patients participated in a 9-months diet and fitness
program, receiving their own menu and a personal workout plan.
Results: 60 patients (57%), 27.8±4.8y age, participated in the program for at least one month,
i. e., adherent participants, with 4.0±2 months participation average. Months of participation
were correlated with weight loss (r=−0.417; p=0.002). Throughout the study patients
lost 3.34±1.2 kg in average: 85.95±14.66 at baseline and 82.61±13.78 at the end of
program (t=4.969; p<0.001). No association was found between specific types or dose
of medication and weight loss (F=0.437, p=0.85).
Discussion: Patients with schizophrenia are capable of adhering to a diet and fitness program
and successfully lose weight, regardless to taking typical or atypical medications.
Key words
schizophrenia - diet - physical fitness - antipsychotics
