10 Foods to Have When You Have Dengue Fever
The dengue virus induces a disease called dengue fever which renders the body very weak. Recovering from the disease requires delicate care and a very strict diet. Dengue is treated by the doctor in a symptomatic manner since there are no vaccines or treatments for the disease itself. If you are a dengue-positive, you can aid your recovery by following a dengue-suitable diet. Get to know about the foods that can help you recover from dengue quickly.
What kind of food should one have if they have dengue fever?
Dengue fever leaves the body very weak and the effects include high-grade fever, headache, vomiting, joint pain and muscle aches. Another characteristic of dengue fever is a rash on the skin. To recover from the stress on the body, a patient requires a light diet that helps the body gain vitality.
During dengue fever, it can get very difficult for a patient to eat. However, it is vital to maintain a nutrient-rich diet so that the body can recover steadily. Easy to digest foods is the basic requirement to get better from dengue fever. The body also requires a lot of fluids to stay hydrated and full of electrolytes during the recovery process.
It is recommended to maintain at least 3 litres of fluid intake while recovering from dengue fever. Iron and protein-rich food are needed during dengue so that the body can replenish red blood cells and also strengthen the immune system. Not eating properly during dengue fever can have long-term implications on the body.
X foods that can speed up your recovery from dengue fever
1. Papaya Leaves
Papaya leaves act as an elixir against dengue fever. It is highly recommended that you include papaya leaves in your dengue recovery diet. The juice of a Papaya leaf, about a tablespoon a day, helps increase your platelet count, which falls drastically due to dengue. The leaves also contain enzymes like papain and chymopapain which help you digest food easily. It is advisable to consume 30ml of papaya leaf juice while recovering from dengue fever.
2. Fruit Juices
The body requires a lot of fluids during dengue fever and fruit juices not only hydrate the body but also provides a healthy dose of nutrients to it. Since it is difficult to ingest a lot of food during dengue, fruit juices provide the body with the recommended amount of vitamins. Vitamin C is required by the body to boost immunity levels and juices of citrus fruits like lemon, oranges or sweet limes are very helpful.
3. Coconut water
Coconut water is full of electrolytes and helps you regain the salts you lose during dengue fever. Coconut water keeps you hydrated and also provides you with nutrients like sodium, potassium and magnesium. It is recommended to drink two glasses of coconut water daily.
4. Pomegranates
Pomegranates are very helpful in reducing the feeling of fatigue from the body. They are rich in iron and help increase the haemoglobin and platelet count of the body. It is very important to replenish the platelet and RBC count to recover properly from dengue fever.
5. Spinach
Spinach is a rich source of iron and is very beneficial for the body during dengue fever. It also contains omega-3 fatty acids which are an important component for immunity building. Spinach is easy to digest and also provides the body with some amount of fiber to compensate for the lack of fiber in a dengue diet.
6. Broccoli
Broccoli is a great source of Vitamin K which is very helpful in regenerating platelets in the body. This antioxidant-rich vegetable is also easy to digest and provides the body with a healthy amount of minerals like calcium, phosphorus, and riboflavin among others.
7. Kiwi
Kiwis are a great source of Vitamins A, E and C along with Potassium. The consumption of kiwis helps the body maintain electrolyte balance and avoid hypertension during dengue fever. It also helps strengthen the immunity system of the body.
8. Liver
Chicken liver is a great source of iron and protein for the body. It helps strengthen the body and increase the count of red blood cells in the body. Chicken liver provides the body with protein without being too difficult to digest.
9. Lentils
Lentil soup is a great food to have during dengue fever. It provides the body with high protein without causing any difficulties in the patient’s digestion.
10. Porridge
Porridge is easy to eat and can be prepared in both a savory way or a sweet way. Porridge provides your body with carbohydrates so that you stay energized during your recovery process. It is also very easy to digest and does not cause any discomfort or bloating as you recover from dengue fever.
Foods you should avoid during dengue fever
- Processed food
- Fatty food
- Proteins that take longer to digest like mutton, beef, etc.
- Caffeine
- Carbonated drinks
- Spicy food
- Fried food items and fast food
- Alcohol
Conclusion:
It is important that you follow a strict diet during your recovery from dengue. A nutrient-rich and light diet can help you avoid any long-term implications of the disease. Medicines can only help you alleviate symptoms of the disease but it is delicate care and mindful eating that will help you recover from dengue fever. Remember to drink lots of water and stay patient during your recovery process.