conjunctivitis food to eat - #12718
I am dealing with this really annoying conjunctivitis right now. It started out of nowhere, and I was like, why is my eye red and itchy?? I went to my doc, and yup, conjunctivitis for sure. They told me to do the usual stuff like cool compresses and eye drops, but I started wondering if there’s any conjunctivitis food to eat that could help my recovery. Like, should I be munching on something specific to speed things up? I read somewhere that certain foods can help with inflammation, but I’m not super clear on what those are. I’ve been eating my usual stuff – probably too many chips and sodas lately – but I feel like I need to be more conscious about what I’m putting in my body right now. What are the best conjugntivitis food to eat, like, should I be loading up on fruits and veggies or something? And what about hydration, does that count as conjunctivitis food to eat too? I’m guessing anything that fights inflammation is a win, right? Any quick advice on this would be soooo appreciated, I’m just tired of feeling this way. Just trying to find a way to make it better, ya know?
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Doctors’ responses
While it’s great you’re thinking about nutrition, there’s no specific diet that can cure conjunctivitis directly. However, eating a balanced diet can support your immune system and may help reduce inflammation, promoting overall health including eye health. Start by increasing your intake of foods rich in antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids as these have anti-inflammatory properties. Aim to include fatty fish like salmon, nuts and seeds such as flaxseeds and chia seeds, and leafy greens like spinach and kale in your meals. Not to forget, fruits like citrus fruits, strawberries, and bell peppers are high in vitamin C which can be beneficial for immune support. Staying hydrated is crucial; while not classically a “food,” water helps keep mucous membranes hydrated, including your eyes. Limit processed foods, high in refined sugars and unhealthy fats, as they might exacerbate inflammation. Although changing your diet won’t make conjunctivitis go away overnight, it lays a foundation for better healing and resistance to infections down the line. Despite these dietary considerations, continue following your doctor’s recommendations such as using any prescribed medications and following hygiene practices to prevent spreading infection. If symptoms persist or worsen, it’s important to follow up with your healthcare provider to rule out any complications or to adjust treatment as necessary.
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