what food is good for dengue patient - #16226
I am really worried about my brother who got dengue two weeks ago. He was hospitalized for a few days but now he’s home, recovering, thank God! But he’s still super weak and has no appetite. I was reading about what food is good for dengue patient, and I found some conflicting info online. Like, some sources say he should eat lots of fruits like papaya and bananas, while others suggest he should focus on hydrating foods like soups and stews. I don't really know what direction to go in. He’s trying to eat, but what food is good for dengue patient when they feel nauseous? And is it okay if he eats spicy food, or should we totally avoid that? Also, I heard that things like coconut water are really good for hydration, so I’ve been giving him that. But then again, what food is good for dengue patient besides just the hydration stuff? Does he need to boost his immune system or anything? I wanna make sure he’s getting what he needs to get stronger but it’s so confusing. Any tips or clear guidance from you docs would be a lifesaver!
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Doctors’ responses
For a dengue patient, especially when recovering at home, focusing on nutrition that aids in hydration and boosts energy levels is key. Dengue often leaves patients feeling weak, and loss of appetite is common. Hydration remains a top priority. Coconut water is a great choice as it is rich in electrolytes, helping to maintain fluid balance. Alongside this, clear fluids such as broths, soups, ORS (Oral Rehydration Solution), and fresh fruit juices can be beneficial. Just make sure these juices aren’t too sugary to avoid spiking blood sugar levels.
When it comes to solid food, lean protein sources like boiled chicken, lentils, and eggs are useful for initiating recovery and supporting muscle repair. Soft, easy-to-digest foods like porridge, oatmeal, rice, and boiled potatoes can help ease the digestive discomfort his experiencing, as they are less likely to trigger nausea. Fruits like papaya are indeed useful, not just for hydration, but they may contain enzymes that support digestion. Bananas are a great addition too as they offer energy and are easy on the stomach.
It’s usually best to avoid spicy foods during recovery from dengue; they can irritate the stomach and gastrointestinal tract, which might already be sensitive. Similarly, heavy or fried foods should be avoided as they can be difficult to digest and provide low nutritional value.
Encourage small, frequent meals if he lacks appetite, rather than forcing large meals, which can be overwhelming. To support immune function, incorporating vitamin-C rich foods like oranges, guava, and kiwi may be beneficial but don’t overdo it if he isn’t feeling up to it—focus on what he can comfortably eat. Overall, the aim is to keep meals simple, nutritious, and balanced, focusing on whole foods where possible.
It’s crucial to monitor for any signs of deterioration, like persistent vomiting, abdominal pain, or any bleeding—these may require urgent medical attention. Otherwise, with a balanced diet and plenty of fluids, your brother should gradually regain strength. Always check in with your healthcare provider if you have concerns specific to his condition or nutrition needs.
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