Diet for Dengue Patients: Foods to Eat & Avoid

Introduction

Dengue (break-bone-fever). It is a viral disease widespread in tropical and subtropical climates. It is spread through the bite of infected Aedes mosquitoes, primarily Aedes aegypti. It is a major public health concern worldwide, with symptoms such as joint and muscle pain, rash, headache, high fever, etc. The symptoms of dengue can be mild or severe. Sometimes life-threatening, known as hemorrhagic fever or dengue shock syndrome.

Treatment of Dengue

There is no treatment for dengue. The doctor’s main focus is on treating the pain symptoms of dengue. You can treat dengue at home with paracetamol to control pain. In severe cases, hospitalization is necessary for blood pressure monitoring, electrolyte replacement, and to control bleeding, persistent vomiting, and lethargy. 

A doctor may request a blood test to detect a dengue virus infection. An expert will take a blood sample from the vein in your arm to look for signs of the dengue virus. It will also help him look for other viruses that cause similar symptoms. 

Also read:  https://redcliffelabs.com/myhealth/health/how-does-dengue-fever-spread/

Importance of Diet in Dengue

Dengue fever affects one’s immunity. Your body’s immune system fights the virus. The B lymphocyte cells create antibodies and alert the T lymphocyte cells to kill pathogens. Hence, a need for a diet for dengue patients arises to manage fever and help in the fastest recovery. 

This blog is an instruction guide for readers and dengue patients, underscoring the importance of a well-balanced dengue diet. However, your doctor is the best person to consult for personalized dietary recommendations based on your specific symptoms. Nevertheless, in severe cases, your healthcare provider may suggest hospitalization to manage dehydration and complications. 

Below are some dietary guidelines for dengue patients, which we are sure will help them recover fast and see a positive change in their health. 

Hydration is a must. 

Loss of fluids in dengue is caused by a high fever and sweating. It is vital to keep your body hydrated. 

• Water: Drink plenty of fluids, such as water. Drink 8–10 glasses of water daily to stay hydrated and support your body. 
• Coconut Water provides hydration. It is gentle on your body and can help replenish fluids and electrolytes lost. 
• Watermelon is refreshing and a great choice for satisfying your thirst. 
• Herbal teas: During dengue, drinking chamomile, ginger, or any other herbal tea can help improve digestion, calm down nausea and vomiting. 
• Clear Broths: Clear vegetable or chicken soup can nourish your body gently and keep it warm.

Balanced Diet 

Dengue is a viral infection that reduces the patient’s appetite. However, small, frequent meals can refill your body with essential nutrients and thus boost your energy levels. 

Healthy Diet Tip for Dengue: Consuming a balanced diet during fever is vital. Incorporating fruits, healthy fats, lean proteins, whole grains, and vegetables can boost the immune system and provide essential nutrients. 

Here is a table showing detailed information on foods for patients diagnosed with dengue: 

Immune-Boosting Foods in Dengue
Vitamin C-rich Fruits	When treating dengue, eat vitamin C-rich fruits such as oranges, guava, strawberries, and papaya The peel, seeds, and pulp are good for easy digestion.
Leafy Greens	Leafy green vegetables such as spinach are rich in vitamin K, which can help blood cells clot better. Besides, collard greens and kale are low in calories. They are rich in antioxidants, highly nutritious, and can help boost immunity during dengue fever.
Berries	Eating berries in dengue, such as strawberries and blackberries, is good. They are high in antioxidants, protecting the body from damage caused by free radicals.
Garlic and Ginger	Garlic and ginger's anti-inflammatory properties can cure dengue virus infection symptoms at the cellular level.

Hence, we can say that incorporating immune-boosting foods into your diet during dengue can help your body combat the virus more effectively. 

Protein-Rich Diet in Dengue
Lean Meats	Chicken and turkey are lean meats that contain essential amino acids and are easy to digest.
Vegetables	Eating unpeeled and uncooked tomatoes, pumpkin, carrots, beets, and zucchini can speed up recovery from dengue.
Fish	Fish such as Sardines, Mackerel, and Salmon are excellent protein sources. They contain omega-3 fatty acids and other nutrients that can support heart health.
Plant-Based Protein Diet in Dengue	Tofu, Beans, Chickpeas, lentils, etc., are naturally rich in protein, making them versatile foods for dengue patients who are vegetarian or vegan.
Vegetarian Sources of Proteina	Mix Dal, Rajma, Sattu, Drumsticks, Soya, Curd, Paneer, etc., can help repair and regenerate body tissues.
Non-vegetarian foods	Chicken, mutton, and eggs are easy-to-digest proteins in dengue.

Consuming these protein-rich foods during dengue can also help prevent anemia and strengthen the immune system. 

Also read: 6 Foods to Avoid in Dengue

Healthy Fats in Dengue
Avocados	Avocados are healthy fats that can be mashed for easy consumption. They can help prevent blood clotting during dengue. Avocados and other vitamin K-rich foods, such as sprouts, broccoli, spinach, kiwi, kale, and cabbage, are less burdensome on the digestive system.
Nuts and Seeds	Eating almonds, along with other nutrient-dense options such as walnuts and chia seeds, in moderation can improve your health.

6 Foods to Avoid in Dengue Fever

After learning about the suitable diet for dengue patients, it is now time to check out what not to eat during dengue. Listed below are some foods that are strictly prohibited during dengue fever.

1. Salty and spicy foods can irritate your stomach in dengue. You should avoid them. 
2. Alcohol consumption can interfere with your immune system while recovering from dengue. So, avoid alcohol in dengue. 
3. Caffeinated drinks. Consuming caffeinated and sugary drinks such as soda, coffee, tea, and even sugary drinks can cause dehydration and worsen the condition. 
4. In dengue, raw or undercooked foods should be avoided. These include seafood, which can be hazardous to health.
5. Fried and greasy foods and high-fat dairy products can increase the load on your digestive system. 
6. Dark-colored foods should not be consumed, as dengue patients may vomit blood. 

Additionally, processed foods, fatty foods, and processed meats should be avoided in dengue fever. 

Takeaway: 

A well-balanced diet is necessary for dengue patients to manage symptoms, support the immune system, and speed up recovery. Proper rest is also important to prevent complications associated with dengue, such as organ dysfunction. However, it is always advisable to seek medical attention if the symptoms are severe and there is a risk of progression to severe dengue. 

Schedule a dengue test with Redcliffe Labs for early detection and timely recovery from dengue fever. 

Frequently Asked Questions: Diet for Dengue Patients

1. Can I drink milk to recover from dengue?

Yes, you can drink milk to help recover from dengue. However, please consult your doctor before you include dengue in your diet, as it can be challenging to digest. 

2. Can I eat beetroot for dengue?

Yes, you can eat beetroot in dengue. It can help increase the platelet count in dengue patients. Besides, its detoxifying properties can help cleanse your liver and improve its functioning. 

3. What should be included in a dengue diet chart?

An ideal dengue diet chart includes everything necessary for your body: 

• Immunity-boosting foods such as leafy greens, berries, and eggplants
• Increase intake of foods high in vitamin C. For example, oranges, kiwis, and lemons. 
• Protein-rich foods like eggs, fish, and chicken
• Avoid fried and spicy foods.
• Rest as much as you can.