Dengue Diet: What to Eat and What to Avoid in Dengue Fever?

Dengue fever, a prevalent mosquito-borne viral illness, often presents challenges in managing dietary needs during the fever phase. Proper nutrition is required to support the body’s immune response and recovery and prevent complications.

What is dengue fever?

Dengue fever results from the dengue virus and primarily spreads through bites of Aedes mosquitoes, mainly Aedes aegypti. The infection can lead to high fever, severe headaches, joint and muscle pain, nausea, vomiting, and a characteristic skin rash.

While most cases of dengue fever resolve with proper care, severe cases can escalate to dengue haemorrhagic fever or dengue shock syndrome, necessitating immediate medical attention.

Why is diet important in dengue recovery?

During the fever phase of dengue, the body’s immune system is actively combating the virus. Adequate nutrition and hydration support immune function, maintain energy levels and repair tissue. A well-managed dengue diet can help alleviate symptoms, prevent dehydration, and facilitate a faster recovery.

What to eat during dengue fever?

For optimal recovery from dengue, add these best foods for dengue to your diet:

Hydrating Fluids:

1. Water: Drink plenty of plain water to stay hydrated and support bodily functions. Aim for at least 8-10 glasses daily.
2. Coconut Water: Coconut water, being naturally rich in electrolytes, aids in restoring lost fluids and minerals during periods of fever.
3. Herbal Teas: Choose soothing herbal teas like ginger or chamomile to promote hydration and provide mild relief.
4. Clear Broths: Vegetable or chicken broths provide hydration, warmth, and gentle nourishment.

Electrolyte-Rich Drinks:

1. Oral Rehydration Solutions (ORS): ORS packets or homemade solutions with salt, sugar, and water help restore electrolyte balance.
2. Homemade Electrolyte Drinks: Mix water with a pinch of salt, sugar, and lemon juice for a homemade electrolyte boost.

Soft, Easily Digestible Fruits:

1. Bananas: Rich in potassium and easily digestible, bananas help combat fever.
2. Papayas: Loaded with vitamins and enzymes, papayas aid digestion and provide essential nutrients.
3. Watermelon: Hydrating and refreshing, watermelon is a great choice to quench thirst.
4. Papaya Leaf: Rich in enzymes like papain and chymopapain, which aid digestion and help increase platelet count in dengue treatment.
5. Pomegranate: Pomegranate reduces exhaustion and fatigue. It is rich in nutrients and minerals and helps maintain a normal blood platelet count.

Cooked Vegetables:

1. Carrots: Steam or boil carrots for a soft, nutritious addition to the dengue diet.
2. Pumpkin and Squash: These vegetables are mild, easily digestible, and rich in vitamins.
3. Leafy Greens: Cooked spinach or kale provides essential nutrients without taxing digestion.

Lean Proteins:

1. Boiled Eggs: Soft-boiled or poached eggs are a great protein option that is easy to digest.
2. Tofu: For vegetarians, tofu provides protein without the heaviness of the meat.
3. Well-cooked Lean Meats: Chicken or fish, cooked thoroughly and without heavy seasoning, offer protein and essential nutrients.

Healthy Fats:

1. Avocados: Rich in healthy fats and vitamins, avocados can be mashed for easy consumption.
2. Nuts and Seeds: Almonds, walnuts, and chia seeds are nutrient-dense options in moderation.

Which foods to avoid in dengue fever?

To ensure better digestion and hydration during dengue fever, steer clear of the following foods:

1. Spicy and Oily Foods: Spices and heavy oils can irritate the stomach and are foods to avoid in dengue.
2. Caffeinated and Sugary Drinks: Coffee, tea, soda, and sugary beverages can contribute to dehydration and should be limited or avoided.
3. Fried and Greasy Foods: Fried foods are heavy, difficult to digest, and may exacerbate nausea or digestive discomfort.
4. Raw or Undercooked Foods: Raw meats, seafood, and eggs pose a risk of foodborne illnesses and should be avoided.
5. Alcohol: Alcohol dehydrates the body and interferes with the immune system, so it’s best to abstain during a fever.

How to manage a dengue diet?

Managing a dengue diet is crucial for supporting the body’s recovery and easing symptoms. Here are some tips:

1. Small, frequent meals: Eat smaller meals daily to aid digestion and prevent stomach overload.
2. Listen to the body: Pay attention to hunger cues and avoid forceful eating if not hungry.
3. Rest and recovery: Prioritise rest to support the body’s healing process.
4. Consult a healthcare professional: If symptoms are present or worsen, seek medical advice promptly for proper evaluation and management.

A well-balanced dengue diet is crucial for managing symptoms, supporting immune function, and aiding in a faster recovery. Remember to seek medical attention if needed and follow dietary recommendations tailored to individual needs for optimal recovery from dengue fever.

Schedule a dengue test with Dr Lal PathLabs for early detection and timely intervention.

FAQs

1. Is egg good for dengue patients?

Yes, boiled eggs are a good option for protein and are easy-to-digest food for dengue patients.

2. Can I drink milk while having dengue fever?

It’s advisable to avoid dairy, including milk, during dengue fever, as it can be challenging to digest.

3. What is a dengue diet chart?

A dengue diet chart lists foods and drinks for recovery, focusing on hydration and easy digestion while avoiding aggravating items.