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Did you know that dengue fever is also known as break-bone fever? This is because one of its symptoms is severe pain in the muscles and bones. The dengue virus is carried by mosquitos and through their bites, it transmits into our body. Dengue fever and symptoms range from high body temperature (fever) to headaches, rashes, and nausea. Recovering from this viral infection can be tiring and lengthy because it can last from a few days to weeks. The time phase completely depends on how severe your condition is. During this time, care from an internal medicine specialist becomes crucial as they will not only guide you regarding medications but your diet, too. With this blog, we will try to understand the best foods that can help you recover from dengue fever.
Synopsis
Understanding Dengue Fever and Its Symptoms
Dengue disease symptoms generally start to appear within four to ten days after being bitten by an infected mosquito. Here are the most common Dengue symptoms:
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Bleeding
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High fever
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Pain behind the eyes
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Joint pain
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Muscle pain
Remember, if you ignore these signs and symptoms of dengue fever, they can eventually worsen. Consult a healthcare professional as soon as possible and follow their guidelines to be safe.
Foods to Eat During Dengue Recovery
Here is a list of recommended food for dengue patients that can given for faster recovery:
Hydrating Fluids
Because of high fever and vomiting, dengue fever often dehydrates the body. Keep your body adequately hydrated to remove the toxins and restore your body’s water balance. Here are some hydrating fluids that you can include in your diet.
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Coconut water: Rich in electrolytes. Helps combat dehydration. Boosts energy.
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Fresh fruit juices: Opt for orange or papaya juice. High in vitamins.
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Oral rehydration solutions (ORS): Helps replenish lost electrolytes. Prevents dehydration.
Vitamin C-Rich Foods
Vitamin C boosts your immunity and aids you in fighting the virus. Iron absorption and tissue repair also become smoother with such items. Certain vitamin-rich foods that you can include are as follows:
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Citrus fruits: Oranges, lemons, and grapefruits.
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Guava: One of the richest sources of vitamin C.
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Kiwi: Nutrients and antioxidants rich.
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Strawberries and papaya: Amazing source of vitamin C.
Protein-Rich Foods
Proper muscle repair and immunity depend on a lot of protein intake. Hence, protein-rich food can help rebuild muscle strength, including:
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Lean meats: Chicken and fish. They are easy to digest.
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Eggs: Complete source of protein.
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Pulses and legumes: Lentils, chickpeas, and beans. These are plant-based protein options.
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Nuts and seeds: Healthy fats and proteins.
Iron-Rich Foods
Iron-rich foods can help support red blood cell production. You can consider including the following options in your diet.
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Spinach: Packed with iron & other essential nutrients.
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Pomegranate: Known to increase haemoglobin levels. Boosts energy.
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Beetroot: Enhances blood circulation. Increases iron levels.
Broth and Soups
These foods are easily digestible. Consuming warm soups and broths can nourish your digestive system without overburdening it. For example:
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Chicken broth: Nutritious option. Easy on the stomach.
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Vegetable soup: Helps maintain hydration. Provides essential vitamins and minerals.
Foods Rich in Antioxidants
Dengue often damages your cells, which require antioxidants to be repaired. These foods can strengthen your immunity and aid in fighting off infections. Here are some items that you can include in your diet.
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Berries: Blueberries, strawberries, and blackberries.
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Green leafy vegetables: Spinach, kale, & Swiss chard.
Probiotic Foods
Probiotics like Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium can restore your gut health, which is often compromised during the illness. A healthy gut means strong immunity. Good immunity helps in recovering from dengue disease symptoms. You can include:
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Yoghourt: Plain, unsweetened yoghourt with active cultures.
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Fermented foods: Sauerkraut, kimchi, and pickles. These are natural probiotics.
Foods to Avoid During Dengue Recovery
Well, dengue fever recovery time will only roll in its optimal power if you know what diet to follow. While eating the right foods is important, it is equally vital to avoid certain foods. For example:
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Oily and fried foods: These can be hard on the stomach. They often slow down the digestion process.
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Caffeinated drinks: Coffee and tea can cause dehydration.
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Spicy foods: These can irritate the digestive system. This is especially true if your dengue fever and symptoms include nausea or vomiting.
For a more in-depth outlook on the diet, consult an experienced medical specialist today.
Dengue Fever Precautions
To avoid getting dengue in the first place, it's essential to take certain precautions. Prevent mosquito bites by using insect repellents, wearing long-sleeved clothing, and ensuring your surroundings are clean and free from stagnant water where mosquitoes breed. Even after recovering from dengue, it’s crucial to be aware of the risks and continue taking dengue fever precautions.
Recovering from dengue fever can be a challenging process, but with the right foods, you can support your body’s healing and speed up recovery. Focus on staying hydrated, eating nutrient-dense foods, and avoiding items that could hinder your progress. By following these dietary guidelines and consulting with a healthcare professional, you can ensure a smoother recovery.
Consult our internal medicine hospital in Whitefield if you need treatment and care for Dengue fever.
FAQ's
Common signs and symptoms of dengue fever include high fever, severe headache, joint and muscle pain, nausea, vomiting, and rashes. In severe cases, bleeding from the nose or gums may occur.
Dengue fever recovery time typically ranges from one to two weeks, but full recovery may take longer depending on the severity of the infection.
Foods rich in vitamin C, proteins, and iron are highly recommended. Hydrating fluids like coconut water and ORS, along with antioxidant-rich fruits and leafy greens, are also beneficial.
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