Foods to Eat When You Have Viral Fever
Eating when you have viral fever would probably be the last thing on your mind. This is because one of its symptoms is reduced appetite. But eating nutritious and healthy food in the right amounts is the key to recovery from viral fever. If you can’t figure out the exact food items to eat, here is a guide to what food is good for viral fever.
What food is good for viral fever?
1. Chicken soup
Chicken soup is the comfort food for a fever. You not only get the benefit of eating chicken, but also the broth which is a mix of nutritive ingredients like celery, carrots, capsicum, and coriander.Chicken soup is a rich source of protein and iron – two essential ingredients for a healthy body. It also keeps you hydrated at a time when you generally don’t drink much water.
2. Vegetarian broth
If you are vegetarian, you can opt for a broth minus the chicken. Doing away with chicken also takes away a rich protein source. You can turn to vegetarian alternatives like mushrooms, soya nuggets or even paneer – all good protein sources.Remember to include ginger as one of the broth ingredients. When it comes to treating cold and fever, ginger with its powerful mix of antioxidants can help strengthen the immune system and battle inflammation in the body.
3. Leafy greens
Leafy greens like spinach, kale, and cabbage are rich in Vitamin C, which helps strengthen your immune system. A weak immune system during a fever can increase its duration and make you susceptible to cold, cough, and sore throat. They are also rich in Vitamin E – another nutrient good for the immune system. The best way to consume them is through either a salad or smoothie, both of which are easy to digest.
4. Vitamin C-rich fruits for fever and cold
Oranges, sweet lime, and pomelo are rich in Vitamin C. You can use them as snacks in between meals. Getting your daily dose of Vitamin C from natural sources is better than consuming supplements because the body can absorb it better from foods. These fruits are among the best foods that fight viral infections.
5. Coconut water
If you are wondering what food is good for viral fever, look no further. Coconut water is rich in glucose and electrolytes – two things that your body needs to combat the lethargy that viral fever brings. It is also rich in potassium which helps replenish your energy reserves.
7. Bananas
Bananas are best for days when your taste buds don’t function at their best. Their bland flavor and soft texture make them a perfect candidate for your diet chart when you are down with viral fever. They are also rich in manganese, potassium, vitamin C, and magnesium – all essential minerals for a healthy body.
Foods to avoid
When it comes to recovery from an illness, eating right also means avoiding certain foods. During the days of viral fever, here are the foods you need to stay away from –-Caffeinated beverages like coffee, and regular tea can dehydrate you-Hard foods like crackers and chips can aggravate the symptoms of a sore throat-You must avoid drinking alcohol because it will dry the system and weaken the immune system
Conclusion
Stay hydrated and eat healthy during a bout of viral fever to ensure that you get over it without any hiccups. Even after the fever is gone, continue eating these foods until you regain your normal appetite.
FAQ
Are there specific cooking methods or recipes recommended for preparing chicken soup or vegetarian broth to maximize their nutritional benefits during viral fever recovery?
Regarding cooking methods for chicken soup or vegetarian broth, there are several options available to maximize their nutritional benefits during viral fever recovery. For chicken soup, simmering the chicken with vegetables like celery, carrots, capsicum, and coriander in water or broth helps extract nutrients and flavors.
For the vegetarian broth, using ingredients like mushrooms, soya nuggets, or paneer along with ginger can create a flavorful and nutrient-rich base. Slow cooking or simmering the ingredients allows for the release of vitamins and minerals while maintaining hydration levels.
Can individuals with dietary restrictions or allergies to certain foods find suitable alternatives to leafy greens and Vitamin C-rich fruits mentioned in the article, while still ensuring they receive essential nutrients during fever recovery?
Individuals with dietary restrictions or allergies can find suitable alternatives to leafy greens and Vitamin C-rich fruits while ensuring essential nutrient intake during fever recovery.
For leafy greens, alternatives like broccoli, bell peppers, and Brussels sprouts are rich in Vitamin C and can be easily incorporated into salads or stir-fries. Similarly, Vitamin C-rich fruits such as kiwi, strawberries, and guava can serve as alternatives to oranges, sweet lime, and pomelo for those with specific dietary needs or preferences.
How long should individuals continue to follow the recommended dietary guidelines outlined in the article after the fever has subsided, and are there any additional dietary considerations to support full recovery and immune system strengthening?
It is advisable to continue following the recommended dietary guidelines even after the fever has subsided to support full recovery and immune system strengthening. Incorporating nutrient-rich foods like chicken soup, leafy greens, and Vitamin C-rich fruits into the daily diet helps replenish essential vitamins and minerals lost during illness.
Additionally, maintaining hydration with coconut water and staying away from caffeinated beverages, hard foods, and alcohol supports the body's recovery process. Gradually reintroducing a balanced diet and monitoring overall health and appetite are essential for sustained well-being post-fever recovery.
