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Typhoid fever is a common illness caused by Salmonella typhi bacteria. It spreads via contaminated food and water. About 9 million people contract typhoid infection globally throughout each year, with India alone accounting for up to 4.8 million typhoid cases each year. A proper diet helps people rebuild their strength while speeding up their healing process. In this article, a renowned internal medicine specialist in Bengaluru describes the most effective dietary approach for typhoid recovery by explaining which foods to consume and which to limit.
Synopsis
Dietary Guidelines for Typhoid
Good nutrition stands as an essential factor that helps patients overcome typhoid fever. Effective dietary control leads to decreased hospital stays when treating typhoid fever in children. Doctors often recommend the patients recovering from typhoid the following dietary measures:
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Nutrition-rich, easy-to-digest foods that minimise stress on their digestive system while recovering from typhoid
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Proper hydration as typhoid can cause dehydration
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Include dietary sources of omega-3 fatty acids and proteins such as soybeans and eggs are excellent, which help build up the body during recovery
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Avoiding or carefully choosing non-fibre, high-spice, and fatty foods because these can increase digestive tract sensitivity.
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Proper hygiene and safe food handling practices for preventing reinfection.
Best Foods to Eat During Typhoid
For complete recovery from typhoid fever, patients need to consume proper nutritional elements. Typhoid foods contain high levels of nutrients that help the body heal while boosting one's energy.
The following sections list approved food types along with sample food choices you should eat while recovering from typhoid fever:
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Easily Digestible Carbohydrates: Your recovery meals should contain porridge, soft rice, and baked potatoes. These nutritious foods to eat during typhoid deliver energy while being easy on the digestive tract, thus aiding recovery.
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Protein-Rich Foods: Select lean protein varieties, including steamed fish, tofu, boiled chicken and eggs. The nourishing food supports tissue repair while building up immune system strength, which remains essential for recovering from typhoid fever.
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Hydrating Fluids: Drink clear fluids, including bottled water, herbal teas, coconut water, and fresh fruit juices to stay hydrated. These foods help restore lost electrolytes which protect individuals from developing dehydration symptoms typical of typhoid fever.
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Cooked Vegetables: Opt for well-cooked vegetables such as potatoes, carrots, green beans, and squash. Cooking these vegetables makes them easier to digest, ensuring the body receives vital nutrients without taxing the digestive system.
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Low-Fiber Fruits: Choose ripe bananas, melons, and applesauce. These fruits are gentle on the stomach and provide essential vitamins and minerals necessary for recovery.
Incorporating these foods to eat during typhoid into your diet can aid in a faster and more comfortable recovery from typhoid fever.
Foods to Avoid During Typhoid
During typhoid fever, it's essential to avoid certain foods that can irritate the digestive system or hinder recovery. Here are some categories of foods to steer clear of:
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High-Fiber Foods: Foods rich in fibre, such as whole grains (e.g., oats and barley) and raw vegetables (e.g., broccoli and cabbage), can be tough to digest and may cause bloating. It's advisable to limit these during typhoid recovery.
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Spicy and Oily Foods: Spicy seasonings and oily foods can irritate the digestive tract and cause inflammation. Avoid dishes prepared with chilli, hot sauces, and excessive oil.
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Raw Vegetables and Fruits: Raw produce, including unpeeled fruits and uncooked vegetables, may harbour contaminants and are harder to digest. Opt for cooked or peeled alternatives to reduce the risk of infection.
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Nuts and Seeds: Nuts like almonds and walnuts, as well as seeds such as flaxseeds and chia seeds, are high in fibre and fats, making them difficult to digest during typhoid. It's best to avoid them until recovery is complete.
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Legumes: Certain legumes, including lentils, chickpeas, and kidney beans, can cause gas and bloating, adding stress to the digestive system. Limiting their intake is recommended during the illness.
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Fatty and Fried Foods: Foods high in fat, such as fried items and junk food, are hard to digest and can exacerbate digestive discomfort. Steer clear of items like fried chicken, potato chips, and doughnuts during your recovery.
By steering clear of these foods to avoid during typhoid, you can help ensure a smoother and quicker recovery from typhoid fever.
Home Remedies and Natural Foods for Healing
Incorporating natural remedies and specific foods can support recovery from typhoid fever. Here are some recommendations:
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Hydration: Maintain adequate fluid intake to prevent dehydration. Options include water, coconut water, herbal teas, and clear broths.
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Easily Digestible Foods: Consume soft, bland foods like porridge, boiled potatoes, and soft rice to ease digestion.
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Probiotics: Include yoghurt and buttermilk in your diet to promote gut health and aid digestion.
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Honey: Utilize honey for its natural antibacterial properties. It can be consumed directly or mixed with warm water.
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Fresh Fruits: Incorporate fruits like bananas, watermelons, and grapes, which are easy to digest and provide essential nutrients.
These natural remedies and foods can aid in a smoother recovery from typhoid fever.
Post-Typhoid Recovery Diet
After recovering from typhoid fever, it's important to reintroduce a balanced diet gradually to restore strength and replenish lost nutrients. Start with easily digestible foods like porridge, boiled potatoes, and soft rice, which are gentle on the stomach. Incorporate lean proteins such as chicken, fish, tofu, and eggs to aid tissue repair and boost immunity.
Cooked vegetables like carrots, spinach, and squash provide essential vitamins and minerals without taxing the digestive system. Probiotic-rich foods like yoghurt can help restore gut flora balance. Ensure adequate hydration by drinking plenty of fluids, including water and herbal teas. Gradually reintroduce high-fibre foods and spices as tolerated to return to a regular diet. Consult a healthcare professional for personalised dietary advice during recovery.
Conclusion
If you’re seeking expert medical advice on managing typhoid fever and its dietary considerations, consult the expert team at Manipal Hospital Hebbal for a comprehensive diagnosis and treatment plan.
FAQ's
Yes, but opt for boiled or pasteurised milk in moderation. Avoid full-fat milk as it can be heavy on digestion during recovery.
Yes, but opt for boiled or pasteurised milk in moderation. Avoid full-fat milk as it can be heavy on digestion during recovery.
Avoid citrus fruits like oranges and lemons initially, as they may irritate the stomach. Once digestion improves, you can slowly reintroduce them.
No, dry fruits are hard to digest and may cause bloating. Wait until full recovery before including them in your diet.
A nutrient-rich diet usually provides enough vitamins, but if recommended by an infectious disease specialist, you can take supplements to support recovery.
Follow a light, nutritious diet for at least two weeks after recovery. Slowly reintroduce regular foods based on digestion and energy levels.
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