food good for dengue patient - #18426
I am really worried about my brother. He just got diagnosed with dengue fever and is feeling super weak and exhausted. He’s had a fever for a few days, and now he’s also dealing with this awful headache and some muscle pain. The doctor talked about food good for dengue patient that can help his recovery, but I’m kinda lost on what that actually means. I've been doing some research and came across some suggestions like fruits and soups, but I don’t want to mess it up. He’s not eating much and has lost weight, which makes me even more anxious! Should he be having things like papaya leaf juice? I've heard that’s beneficial, but also read that it can have side effects if not taken right. And what about hydration? Is water enough, or should I get him those electrolyte drinks? I mean, what’s the balance? I want to make sure he gets the nutrients and all that ‘food good for dengue patient’ stuff while not overwhelming him. Are there specific foods that can help boost his platelet count? I keep asking my family for ideas, but everyone seems to have different opinions, and I’m like, should I just stick to simple broths or go all out with smoothies or juices? Just feeling overwhelmed here and want to do what’s best for him.
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Doctors' responses
When dealing with dengue fever, a balanced approach to nutrition and hydration is crucial. The primary aim is to support your brother’s immune system and maintain adequate fluid levels. He may have reduced appetite, but small, frequent meals rich in nutrients can help. Focus on easily digestible foods like rice, boiled vegetables, lean proteins (like chicken) and clear broths. These can provide essential energy and nutrients. Hydration is key—water is great, but oral rehydration solutions (ORS) or electrolyte drinks can be particularly beneficial to replace lost minerals and help prevent dehydration, which is common in dengue due to fever and reduced intake.
For fruits, options like papaya, kiwi, and citrus fruits (oranges) are often recommended. They’re rich in vitamins and may potentially help maintain platelet levels, although evidence for specific foods boosting platelets is limited. Papaya leaf juice is sometimes talked about anecdotally, but it should be approached cautiously. If you decide to try this, ensure it’s prepared safely, as improper handling can lead to adverse effects.
Avoid heavily processed or oily foods, and limit caffeine as it can dehydrate. Stick to whole foods, avoiding excessive spices or stimulants. Good hydration and balanced nutrition can help support his recovery, but watch for warning signs like severe abdominal pain, persistent vomiting, or bleeding, which need immediate medical attention. Keep monitoring his progress, ensuring he gets rest, and follow up with healthcare advice regularly to make sure his condition is stabilizing. If in doubt about any nutritional choices or treatments, it’s always safer to consult with the treating physician to tailor recommendations to his specific medical needs.
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