AskDocDoc
/
/
/
What food is good for dengue fever?
FREE! Ask a Doctor — 24/7, 100% Anonymously
Get expert answers anytime. No sign-up needed.
Infectious Illnesses
Question #11864
45 days ago
133

What food is good for dengue fever? - #11864

Shlok

I am feeling super confused and worried about my son who's been dealing with dengue fever for the last week. He got diagnosed after having high fevers, headaches, and some crazy joint pain that made him cry. The doc told us to keep him hydrated and monitor his platelets, which thankfully are stable right now. But now I’m trying to figure out, what food is good for dengue fever? Like, what should I be feeding him to help him recover? I heard broth is good and maybe fruits too, but honestly my mind is racing and I feel like I need more specifics. He’s not really hungry but I want to make sure he gets the nutrients he needs, you know? The last thing I want is for him to feel worse because of what he’s eating. Anyone have suggestions on what food is good for dengue fever? Like are there certain fruits or vegetables that are beneficial? Should I be avoiding anything? My friend said garlic is good for his immunity, but I’m not sure convinced. I just really need to know what food is good for dengue fever that he’ll actually eat. Help would be greatly appreciated as I’m juggling a lot right now, and I just want him back to his usual self soon!

FREE
Question is closed
FREE! Ask a Doctor — 24/7,
100% Anonymously
Get expert answers anytime, completely confidential.
No sign-up needed.
CTA image asteriksCTA image

Doctors’ responses

When dealing with dengue fever, nutrition plays an important role in supporting recovery, but it should complement other treatments like hydration and close medical monitoring. Start with easily digestible foods. You’re right, broths, particularly chicken broth, can offer both nourishment and hydration. They provide electrolytes and are generally well tolerated even when appetite is low. Fruits rich in vitamin C such as oranges, papayas, and kiwis are also beneficial as they can boost the immune system and encourage the uptake of iron, helpful especially if platelet counts fluctuate. Papaya leaf extract is often discussed in the context of increasing platelet counts, but discuss first with a healthcare professional about safety and dosage.

Leafy greens like spinach provide iron, which is crucial because dengue often results in lowered red blood cell counts. However, make sure these are well-cooked to prevent any gastrointestinal issues. Porridges, rice, and toast are gentle on the stomach and can be part of his regular meals. Avoid oily, processed foods and spicy items as they might exacerbate nausea or vomiting. Indeed, foods that promote immunity are great, but specifics like garlic aren’t proven in the context of acute dengue infection to have substantial effects. Stick to a balanced approach with plenty of fluids—water and oral rehydration solutions work well—to prevent dehydration.

If appetite is low, try smaller, more frequent meals rather than three large meals a day. And while you focus on diet, continue to monitor symptoms for signs of complications, like intense abdominal pain or extreme lethargy, that would require immediate medical attention. Keep in constant communication with your son’s healthcare provider to tailor the management plan based on his exact needs. With time and proper care, he should start feeling better.

5470 answered questions
73% best answers
Accepted response

0 replies
FREE! Ask a Doctor — 24/7,
100% Anonymously

Get expert answers anytime, completely confidential. No sign-up needed.

About our doctors

Only qualified doctors who have confirmed the availability of medical education and other certificates of medical practice consult on our service. You can check the qualification confirmation in the doctor's profile.


Related questions