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Aedes mosquitoes, particularly the Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus, cause dengue, a viral infection. Symptoms can range from mild to none, but in rare severe cases, hospitalisation might be necessary. As per WHO, the global incidence of dengue has increased substantially over the past two decades, with reports estimating a ten-fold increase, i.e., from 500,000 to 5.2 million cases between 2000 and 2019. The report also says India is ranked among the 30 most highly endemic countries, with most cases in Kerala and northeastern states bordering Bangladesh in 20231.
Diet and nutrition can play a crucial role in boosting immunity, which helps patients to enhance recovery. A well-balanced dengue recovery food can help strengthen the immune system, support platelet production, and replenish lost fluids. This blog highlights the best food for dengue patients that can boost recovery in patients suffering from dengue.
Synopsis
Signs and Symptoms of Dengue
In most cases, dengue shows mild or no symptoms, but in rare cases, hospitalisation is required, sometimes leading to death. The symptoms include high fever, eye pain, muscle and joint pain, severe headache, nausea, vomiting, skin rash, and swollen glands. More severe symptoms, however, can include rapid breathing, frequent vomiting, liver infection, intense abdominal pain, bleeding from the nose or gums, fatigue, blood in stool or vomit, pale and cold skin, excessive thirst, and lethargy.
A high fever and a reduced platelet count are the characteristics of the disease. Symptoms can occur 4-10 days after infection and last 2-7 days. However, returning to optimal health may take up to several weeks. People infected with dengue for the second time are at a higher risk of developing severe symptoms and may need immediate medical attention.
Best Food for Dengue Patients That Can Boost Immunity
Here are some of the best foods for dengue that can boost the patient’s immunity:
- Staying Hydrated
Symptoms of dengue are usually accompanied by high fever, excessive sweating, or vomiting, which can lead to loss of fluids. Since it can lead to dehydration, it is necessary to hydrate yourself to compensate for the lost fluids. Some excellent and available options to stay hydrated include normal water, which one should drink at least 8-10 glasses per day; coconut water; electrolyte-rich solutions like oral rehydration solution (ORS); herbal teas like chamomile or ginger; buttermilk; or vegetable/chicken broths.
A dengue recovery diet must include foods that are easily digestible and soft, such as oatmeal, bananas, rice, and porridge, which can help soothe the digestive system, increase platelet count, provide necessary nutrients, combat fever, and also keep them hydrated.
- Immunity-Boosting Foods
- Vitamin C-rich fruits
Fruits like papaya, pomegranate, kiwi, and citrus fruits are highly beneficial for dengue patients. These fruits are packed with essential vitamins and minerals—kiwi provides Vitamins D and C, pomegranate is rich in Vitamins A, C, and E, and pumpkin offers Vitamin A. Additionally, these fruits are abundant in antioxidants. Pomegranate, in particular, is high in iron, which supports the production of red blood cells and platelets. Consuming fresh papaya leaf juice is said to boost platelet levels.
- Vegetables
Cooked or boiled vegetables can help increase platelet production and strengthen the immune system. Vegetables like beetroots, pumpkin, kale, broccoli, and carrots are rich in iron, which aids in boosting platelet count. Additionally, green leafy vegetables like spinach provide vital nutrients, promoting faster recovery.
- Berries
Strawberries, raspberries, and blueberries are rich in antioxidants, which help protect your body from damage caused by free radicals.
- Garlic and ginger
They have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help enhance immune health.
- Protein Sources and Healthy Fats
Protein-rich foods such as legumes, chickpeas, beans, fish, poultry, lean meats, and eggs play a key role in tissue repair. Tofu serves as a good vegetarian alternative. Yoghurt supports gut health by fostering the growth of beneficial bacteria and helping to remove toxins from the body. Additionally, healthy fats found in almonds, nuts, and avocados are packed with essential vitamins and nutrients.
Foods to Avoid When Diagnosed With Dengue
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Avoid fatty and greasy foods, as they can be hard on the digestive system and may lead to inflammation and worsening of symptoms.
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Spicy and acidic foods can irritate the stomach lining and exacerbate the symptoms of nausea and vomiting.
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Caffeinated and sugary beverages can increase dehydration in the body.
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Alcohol consumption should be completely avoided, as it can interfere with the body's healing.
Despite the availability of treatment options and dengue recovery foods, prevention remains the best cure. You can lower your risk of getting dengue by protecting yourself from mosquito bites, especially during the day. This is possible by wearing clothes that cover most of your body and using mosquito nets, window screens, repellents, coils or vaporisers. Additionally, maintaining hygiene in your home and surroundings can prevent the breeding of mosquitoes.
Conclusion
A dengue food diet is crucial for facilitating recovery and boosting the immune system. Staying hydrated, consuming easily digestible foods, and eating immune-boosting and nutrient-dense foods are essential during this period. By following the above diet and taking dengue fever precautions, patients can get back to good health faster.
Keep in mind that some patients may experience health-related ailments up to three to four months after recovering from acute dengue infection. This could be due to the virus's ability to compromise the immune system. Therefore, precautions are necessary to avoid long-term side effects and to boost your immunity.
If you suffer from dengue fever or are looking for the best food advice for dengue patients, consult the best Medicine Doctor at Manipal Hospitals, Patiala, today.
FAQ's
To recover from dengue faster, you must:
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Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids
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Consume a balanced diet high in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
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Get enough rest and sleep to help your body repair
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Monitor your body temperature and platelet count regularly
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Follow your doctor’s recommendations
Vitamin C supports the immune system and aids the body's immunological system in fighting against dengue.
Most of the nutrients to support the immune system can be obtained from a well-balanced diet containing fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. However, supplements may be considered only by the recommendations of a healthcare professional.
Papaya leaf extract and pomegranate are believed to boost platelet levels in patients with dengue fever. However, there is limited evidence regarding their efficacy.
You can schedule an appointment at Manipal Hospitals, Patiala, by contacting us or visiting our website.
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