For recovery from dengue, it is essential to focus on foods that are easy to digest, rich in nutrients (especially protein, vitamin C, and iron), and hydrating to help increase platelet levels and support the immune system. Here is what to eat during dengue: Recommended Foods:
- Fruits: Soft, easily digestible fruits like bananas (rich in potassium), papayas (high in vitamins and enzymes), apples, pears, guavas, cherries, pineapples, lemons, pomegranate, and watermelon. Papaya leaf juice is also known to help increase platelet count
- Vegetables: Cooked and peeled vegetables such as carrots, pumpkin, squash, zucchini, tomatoes, chayote, beets, eggplant, spinach, and kale. These provide vitamins and minerals without stressing digestion
- Proteins: Lean and easily digestible proteins like boiled or scrambled eggs, chicken (preferably stewed, grilled, or boiled without heavy seasoning), fish, tofu, and lean cuts of beef. These help rebuild tissues and boost immunity
- Grains and Tubers: Low-fiber grains such as white rice, white bread, white pasta, and tubers like potatoes, yams, cassava, and taro are gentle on the stomach and provide energy
- Dairy and Plant-based Milks: Low-fat dairy products like skim milk, white cheese, yogurt, and plant-based milks such as soy, almond, rice, and oat milk support nutrition without heaviness
- Hydrating Fluids: Plenty of water, coconut water (rich in electrolytes), herbal teas (chamomile, peppermint, ginger), clear broths, and oral rehydration solutions help maintain hydration and electrolyte balance
- Healthy Fats: Moderate amounts of avocados, nuts, and seeds provide essential fats and vitamins
Foods to Avoid:
- Spicy, oily, fried, and heavy foods that irritate the stomach or are hard to digest.
- Caffeinated and sugary beverages that can cause dehydration.
- Raw or undercooked foods that risk infections.
- Processed and junk foods low in nutrition.
- Alcohol, which dehydrates and suppresses immunity
Example of a 3-day meal plan includes:
- Breakfasts like peppermint tea with scrambled eggs and bread, chamomile tea with toast and cheese, or plant-based milk with omelets.
- Snacks such as natural yogurt with banana, peeled fruits, or unsweetened jello.
- Lunches with stewed chicken or grilled fish, rice or pasta, and cooked vegetables.
- Dinners include fish fillets, mashed potatoes, soups with vegetables and proteins
This diet supports easy digestion, hydration, and nutrient intake to help the body recover from dengue fever effectively. Consulting a healthcare provider or dietitian for personalized advice is recommended
