With the ever-increasing casualties pertaining to dengue in India is a matter of grave concern. If this chronic illness is diagnosed late or left untreated, it can even claim the lives of people.
Fortunately, there is an easy way to overcome this ailment and live a healthy life. The road to recovery from dengue can be as simple as following a customized diet along with the medicines prescribed by the doctor.
Diet for Dengue Patients
Papaya Leaves- There is no scientific proof for the claim but experts believe that consumption of papaya leaf extract can increase the platelet count. It is probably the best natural remedy to treat dengue fever. To extract the juice from the papaya leaves, they have to be crushed or squeezed. Alternately, the leaves can be boiled in water and strained before drinking the concoction.
Broccoli- Broccoli is another great option to help increase the platelet count. It is a rich source of vitamin K, antioxidants and minerals. If the platelet drops to a dangerous level, broccoli must be eaten on a daily basis.
Spinach- Spinach contains iron and omega-3 fatty acids, which are excellent to boost the immune system. It also helps to increase platelet count.
Pomegranate- Packed with essential nutrients and minerals, pomegranate supplies the much-needed energy to the body. It reduces exhaustion and fatigue. The iron content in pomegranate helps to maintain a normal blood platelet count necessary to recover from dengue.
Ginger Water- Consumption of ginger water reduces the feeling of nausea. It contains essential minerals and fluids to help a patient deal with the effects of dengue.
Orange- The vitamin C in the fruit helps to fight the antibodies and build back the immune system. Any other fruit, citrus or non-citrus, with high vitamin C content can also be consumed.
Fruit and Vegetable Juices- Carrots, leafy greens, and cucumbers are excellent for curing dengue symptoms. They contain essential vitamins and minerals to boost the immunity of patients.
Coconut- Dengue may result in dehydration. Coconut water is one of the best ways to hydrate the body since it is a natural source of essential minerals and electrolytes.
Porridge- Dengue patients are suggested to eat soft foods or food is pureed and fluid form. Porridge is the best item to choose in this category. Moreover, they can be easily swallowed and digested as the liver of a dengue patient is highly compromised making it difficult to digest oily, spicy and heavy food. Porridge has high fibre content and nutrient value to aid patients in fighting off the ailment.
Boiled Food and Soups- Soups contain protein, vitamins, and minerals altogether since it is prepared using different vegetables, pulses, and chicken. All these are highly required to recover from dengue. Moreover, the low-on-spice factor makes soup easy to digest resulting in smooth bowel movements. Soups strengthen the body, reduce joint pain, enhance the appetite and improve the taste buds. Mashed boiled food with a little seasoning can also be eaten by dengue patients.
Protein Rich Food- Fish, chicken, egg, milk and other dairy products have to be consumed to fight off the virus from the system.
Dos and Don’ts for Dengue Patients
Dos
- Diet should contain whole grain cereals, leafy greens, thick skin fruits and lots of fluids in different forms
- Complete bed rest
- Repeat blood tests as and when required to monitor platelet counts and hematocrit
- Seek doctor’s consultation immediately if dengue symptoms tend to flare up
Don’ts
- Fried, processed, junk, spicy, and oily foods to be avoided
- Coffee, cocoa, tea, caffeinated, alcoholic and carbonated beverages to be avoided
Quick diagnosis, effective medicines, and proper diet help a patient recover from dengue within a week’s time. Upon experiencing symptoms of dengue fever, one must go for Dengue MS1 Antigen (Rapid) and Dengue Antibody IgG (ELISA) to ensure whether or not suffering from the ailment.
Nightingales offer lab tests at home, where a trained nurse would visit the patient’s residence to collect samples. Consult a doctor from our team at the comfort of your residence.
