Dengue Recovery Diet: What Should You Eat and Avoid?
What should you eat to recover fast from dengue? Which foods are best and what foods should be avoided in dengue? When you are recovering from dengue, you should add foods to your plate that provide a lot of energy and strengthen immunity.
Monsoon brings the concern of dengue and it has become a common topic of discussion these days. Dengue fever, a mosquito-borne illness, can leave individuals feeling weak and vulnerable during their recovery phase. One of the most effective ways to support the healing process is through a carefully crafted diet. But what exactly should you be eating during your dengue recovery? This blog aims to answer that question and provide you with essential insights into what to include and what to avoid in your post-dengue diet.
What Is Dengue?
Dengue is a viral infection caused by the dengue virus (DENV), transmitted to humans through a bite from the infected Aedes species mosquito.
The onset of symptoms including high fever, headaches, rashes, as well as joint and muscle pain occurs within 3 days or more. Unfortunately, the situation tends to deteriorate from that point onward.1
Symptoms
The majority of individuals affected by dengue experience mild symptoms or none at all and typically recover within 1–2 weeks. In rare instances, dengue can manifest severely, potentially resulting in fatal outcomes.
Common symptoms
- High fever (40°C/104°F)
- Intense headache
- Muscle & joint discomfort
- Nausea, vomiting
- Swollen glands
- Eye pain
- Skin rash
Severe symptoms
- Severe abdominal pain
- Persistent vomiting
- Rapid breathing
- Bleeding gums or nosebleeds
- Fatigue & Restlessness
- Presence of blood in vomit or stool
- Profound thirst
- Pale and cool skin
- Feelings of weakness
Important:
Persons experiencing any of these severe symptoms should seek medical attention promptly. While following recovery, individuals who have recuperated from dengue may experience tiredness for several weeks.
The Road to Recovery
Dengue fever can leave you feeling weak and vulnerable during the recovery phase. When grappling with dengue, your body's immune system may be weakened, and your platelet count might drop. The initial and most crucial step in battling the dengue virus involves enhancing the patient's immune system. Therefore, it's crucial to focus on a carefully crafted nutrient-rich diet that promotes hydration, supports the immune system, and helps maintain a healthy platelet count.
What to Eat During Dengue Recovery
The period of dengue recovery is crucial, and providing your body with the right nutrients can aid in a faster and smoother healing process. Here's a list of foods that are beneficial to include in your diet during this phase:
🗸 Hydrating Fluids:
Water: Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day.
Coconut Water: Replenishes electrolytes and keeps you hydrated.
Herbal Teas: Chamomile and ginger teas can soothe your stomach and aid digestion.
🗸 Soft and Digestible Fruits:
Bananas: Gentle on the stomach and a great source of energy.
Papayas: Contain enzymes that assist digestion and boost the immune system.
Applesauce: Easy to digest and provides essential nutrients.
🗸 Lean Proteins:
Chicken: Offers essential amino acids crucial for tissue repair.
Fish: Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which have anti-inflammatory properties.
Tofu: Suitable for vegetarians and provides plant-based protein.
🗸 Nutrient-Dense Grains:
Brown Rice: Easily digestible and provides sustained energy.
Oats: Gentle on the stomach and a good source of fiber.
🗸 Leafy Greens and Vegetables:
Spinach: Rich in vitamins and minerals to support your recovery.
Carrots: High in beta-carotene, beneficial for your immune system.
Zucchini: Light and easy to digest.
🗸 Healthy Fats:
Avocado: Provides healthy fats and vitamins to support healing.
Nuts and Seeds: A source of energy and essential nutrients.
🗸 Dairy Alternatives:
Opt for low-fat yogurt or dairy-free alternatives for probiotics that aid digestion and strengthen the gut.
What to Avoid During Dengue Recovery
While focusing on nutrient-rich foods, certain items are better left out of your diet during your dengue recovery:
X Fried, Greasy, and Spicy Foods:
Heavy and high in unhealthy fats can strain your digestive system. Spicy foods can irritate your stomach and worsen digestive discomfort.
X Caffeine, Alcohol Processed and Sugary Foods:
Dehydrating substances should be limited during recovery. They lack essential nutrients that might hinder your healing process.
X Citrus Fruits:
Some sources suggest avoiding highly acidic fruits due to potential irritation.
Helpful Tips
Here are some additional tips that might be helpful during the recovery period:
Tip #1. Platelet Counts
If your platelet counts are low, your healthcare provider will monitor this closely. Certain foods, like papaya leaf extract, have been traditionally used to support platelet production, but it's important to discuss any supplementation or home remedies with your doctor.
Tip #2. Monitoring Dengue Fever
Monitoring your body temperature using a thermometer is an essential aspect of managing dengue fever and ensuring a safe and speedy recovery. Especially during the acute phase of dengue fever, monitor your body temperature regularly. Depending on the severity of your symptoms, your healthcare provider might recommend specific intervals for temperature checks.
Why Monitoring Body Temperature Matters
Monitoring your body temperature provides valuable insights into the progression of the disease and helps you and your healthcare provider make informed decisions about your treatment and care.
Choose a Reliable Digital Thermometer
Select a digital thermometer that is accurate and easy to use! Dr Trust Digital thermometers are certified for their precision and convenience. Depending on your requirements, you can click here to choose a thermometer to measure your temperature from the forehead, mouth (orally), underarm (axillary), or rectum (rectally). All thermometers come with a digital display for showing the body temperature. While their memory feature helps you to keep a record of your temperature readings along with the time they were taken. This information is valuable for tracking the fever's pattern and progress.
Tip #3. Frequent Meals
Instead of having large meals, consider eating smaller, more frequent meals. This can be gentler on your digestive system and help maintain your energy levels.
Tip #4. Listen to Your Body and Take A Rest
Pay attention to your body's signals. Dengue can leave you feeling weak and fatigued. Getting plenty of rest is crucial for your body's recovery. If a particular food or drink doesn't feel right, it's best to avoid it.
Tip #5. Vitamin C Sources
If tolerated, include sources of vitamin C such as bell peppers, broccoli, and strawberries. Vitamin C can support the immune system.
Tip #6. Ginger and Herbal Teas
Ginger can have anti-inflammatory properties and herbal teas can be soothing for the digestive system.
As you embark on your journey to recovery from dengue fever, your diet plays a pivotal role in supporting your body's healing process. Remember, the foods you choose can either fuel your recovery or hinder it, so opt for nourishing, easily digestible options. Always consult with your healthcare provider before making any major dietary changes, and pay attention to your body's signals.