Dengue is a mosquito-borne viral infection caused by the dengue virus. It is transmitted to humans through the bite of infected female mosquitoes. Symptoms range from high fever to severe joint pain, and post-dengue fever symptoms like weakness and fatigue can linger, making recovery a gradual process. When it comes to recovering from dengue, diet plays a key role. Eating the right foods strengthens the immune system, ensures adequate hydration, and provides the nutrients needed to fight the virus. Conversely, certain foods can worsen symptoms or hinder recovery. In this blog, we look at what foods to eat and what to avoid when you have dengue fever and provide practical tips to help you or your loved one on the road to recovery.
Food Diet for Dengue Patients: What to Eat
Hydration Basics
Drinking enough fluids is very important for dengue patients. Dehydration can worsen symptoms, so it’s important to drink enough fluids throughout the day. Here are some hydration basics:
Water: Drinking enough water flushes out toxins and keeps the body functioning. At least 8-10 cups per day will help regulate your body temperature.
Oral Rehydration Solution (ORS): Oral rehydration solution (ORS) helps replace lost electrolytes and fluids, especially if vomiting or diarrhea is present.
Coconut Water: Coconut water is a natural source of electrolytes, is gentle on the stomach and keeps you hydrated (kidney and heart patients – consult a dietician).
Herbal Tea: Teas such as chamomile, ginger and peppermint will soothe the stomach and help keep you hydrated without the caffeine found in regular tea (be careful not to overuse/overdose).
Local: Buttermilk
Immunity Boosting Foods – Vitamin C/Zinc
A strong immune system is essential to fight dengue. Including immunity boosting foods in your dengue diet will help your body fight the virus more effectively.
Vitamin C Rich Fruits: Oranges, papaya, guava and strawberries are good sources of Vitamin C, known to boost the immune system. Sweet lime/amla/karonda/lemon – locally grown
Leafy greens: Spinach, kale and broccoli are rich in vitamins and minerals that support immune health. Wild leaves/radish leaves/parsley.
Berries: Blueberries, raspberries and blackberries are rich in antioxidants that protect the body from free radical damage. Locally grown – Mixed nuts – raisins/anjeer/almonds/walnuts/pistachios.
Garlic and ginger: Both have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties and can boost immune function. Protein Sources
Protein is essential for repairing and regenerating body tissues, especially during illness. Including good quality protein sources in your diet can promote recovery.
Vegetarian: Paneer, curd, milk, soya, dal mix, rajma, chole, chickpeas, chhena, chicken feet, sattu, tofu.
Non-vegetarian: Chicken, mutton, fish, eggs.
Lean Meat: Chicken and turkey are easily digestible proteins that provide essential amino acids without putting a strain on the stomach.
Fish: Fish such as salmon and mackerel are rich in omega-3 fatty acids and high-quality protein. Eggs: Eggs are a versatile and easily digestible source of protein and can be prepared in a variety of ways to suit your taste.
Plant-based proteins: Lentils, beans, tofu and chickpeas are excellent sources of protein for those following a vegetarian or vegan diet.
Foods that increase platelets
For platelet formation –
Vitamin A: Green leafy vegetables, pumpkin, carrots, beets, milk, produce, papaya.
Vitamin C: Ardis, lemon, orange, sweet lime. Zinc: Whole grains, nuts, seeds.
Protein: Legumes, poultry, milk, produce.
Dengue fever can cause a significant drop in platelet count, which can lead to complications. Certain foods can boost platelet production and maintain platelet levels.
Liver impairment: Should be taken under medical supervision.
Pomegranate: Rich in iron, pomegranate helps maintain a healthy platelet count and also boosts immunity. Pumpkin + Carrot + Spinach: Pumpkin is a great food for dengue patients as it is rich in Vitamin A, which supports platelet production and boosts the immune system. It is one of the best foods to increase platelet count in dengue patients.
Beetroot and Carrot: Both are rich in antioxidants and nutrients that help in regenerating blood cells and improving platelet count.
Fatigue Prevention:
Calories + Protein: Ghee, Butter, Cheese, Cooking Oils, Cereals
Fever Prevention: Fluid intake
Also Read – Post-Dengue Recovery: Tips for Regaining Strength and Boosting Immunity
3-day dengue diet plan
| Day 1 | Day 2 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Breakfast | 1 cup of peppermint tea + 1 scrambled egg + 1 slice of bread | 1 cup of chamomile 2 + 1 slice of whole wheat toast + 2 slices of white cheese | 1 cup of plant-based milk + 1 omelet with 2 eggs |
| Morning snack | 1 natural skim yogurt + + ½ unripe banana | 1 peeled apple | 1 peeled pear |
| Lunch | Stewed chicken thigh + 3 tablespoons of rice + 3 tablespoons of cooked carrots and squash | Grilled fish + 3 tablespoons of pumpkin puree + 3 tablespoons of boiled beets | 1 omelet with spinach + 3 tablespoons of cooked sweet potato + 3 tablespoons of stewed eggplant |
| Afternoon snack | 1 cooked pear | 1 serving of unsweetened jello | 2 cream crackers + 2 slices of ricotta cheese + 1 cup of lemongrass tea |
| Dinner | 1 stewed fish fillet + 3 tablespoons of mashed potatoes + 2 tablespoons of stewed carrots | 1 cup of pasta with homemade tomato sauce + 1 grilled chicken breast + 4 tablespoons of boiled squash | 1 serving of soup made with pumpkin, celery, chayote, carrots and protein (beef, tofu or chicken) |
Please Note – The types and amounts of foods mentioned in this meal plan may vary based on the patient’s age and overall health condition. It is recommended to consult a registered dietitian for a comprehensive assessment and personalized nutrition plan.
Dengue Fever Diet Plan
Here is a diet plan for a week for dengue fever. It is rich in nutrition that can build the immune system and help repair and regenerate body tissues, recover from dengue fever.
| Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner | |
| Monday | 1 cup cornflakes & milk | ½ cup parboiled rice + ½ cup soup + 2 piece chicken | ⅓ cup boiled rice + 2 mashed potato + pour 1 tbsp of ghee over rice |
| Tuesday | 1.5 soaked chapatti in ½ cup milk with sugar | ½ cup parboiled rice + 2 pcs roasted paneer + ½ cup soup | ⅓ cup boiled rice + ½ cup carrot and potato curry + 2 warm rasgulla. |
| Wednesday | 2 chapati + ½ cup masoor daal | ½ cup yellow matar daal curry + ¼ fresh lime | ⅓ cup mashed boiled potato + ¼ cup milk with jaggery |
| Thursday | 1 bowl pulao with carrot and peas | ½ cup boiled rice + 2 mashed potato + 1 boiled egg + pour 1 tbsp of ghee over rice | ⅓ cup of rice + ½ bowl of curry + 2 warm rasgulla |
| Friday | 2 chapati + ½ cup of moong dal | ½ cup of parboiled rice + 2 pieces of roasted paneer | ¼ cup of pulao + 1 boiled egg |
| Saturday | ½ cup custard + 2 toasts | ½ cup of parboiled rice + ½ cup of moong dal | ⅓ cup of boiled rice with mashed potatoes + ½ cup of milk with jaggery. |
| Sunday | 2 chapati + ½ cup masoor ki dal | ½ cup yellow matar daal curry | ⅓ cup pulao + 1 tbsp ghee over rice |
*Consult your doctor before starting any diet plan*
Please note – To keep your body properly functioning and fight against dengue fever, you should have coconut water and vitamin C-rich fruits.
Foods to Avoid in Dengue Fever:
Fatty and Greasy Foods
Fatty and greasy foods can put a strain on your digestive system, especially if your body is already weakened by dengue. These foods can also cause inflammation and worsen your symptoms. Fast Food: Burgers, French fries, and other fast foods tend to be high in unhealthy trans fats and saturated fats and should be avoided.
Fried Foods: Fried foods such as chicken, French fries, and donuts are hard to digest and should be eliminated from your diet.
Heavy Meats: Fatty cuts of beef and pork can put undue strain on your digestive system while you recover.
Spicy and Acidic Foods: Spicy and acidic foods can irritate the stomach lining and worsen nausea and vomiting, which are common symptoms of dengue fever.
Chili Peppers: Avoid spicy foods, including chili peppers and hot sauces, as they can worsen an upset stomach. Acidic fruits: While some fruits are healthy, highly acidic fruits such as lemons, limes, and tomatoes can irritate the stomach. Acid can build up in the stomach and cause ulcers, hindering the healing process.
Caffeinated and sugary drinks – Caffeine and excess sugar can dehydrate the body, making any attempt to stay hydrated during dengue counterproductive.
Coffee: Caffeinated drinks such as coffee have a diuretic effect and can cause dehydration. It is best to avoid caffeine if you have dengue. Energy drinks: These are often high in potentially harmful caffeine and sugar.
Soda: Sugary carbonated drinks have no nutritional value and can cause dehydration and sugar shock.
Alcohol – If you have been diagnosed with dengue, it is important to avoid consuming alcohol for several important reasons. Alcohol can have a variety of adverse effects on the body, especially when it is under the stress of fighting an infection such as dengue. During dengue, you should completely avoid all alcoholic beverages such as beer, wine, spirits, and other alcoholic drinks. This reduces the strain on your body, allowing it to focus on fighting the virus and recovering more efficiently.
Frequently asked questions
Is it okay to drink milk during dengue?
Yes, it is safe to drink milk even if you have dengue fever. It provides important nutrients like calcium, protein and vitamins that support overall health and recovery. Plus, milk helps keep you hydrated. However, if you experience symptoms like bloating or diarrhea after drinking milk, it is best to avoid it. If lactose intolerance is an issue, choose lactose-free milk or dairy alternatives. Always listen to your body and consult a dengue doctor if you have any concerns.
Are eggs good for your health if you have dengue fever?
Yes, eggs are good for your health if you have dengue fever. They are a high-quality source of protein that is essential for repairing and regenerating body tissues. Additionally, eggs contain important vitamins and minerals such as Vitamin B12, Vitamin D, Selenium, and Zinc that support your immune system and overall health. Eggs are easy to digest, so they are also a good choice for people with loss of appetite or digestive problems. Including eggs in your dengue diet can help provide the nutrients you need to support the healing process.
What is a good breakfast for dengue?
A nutritious breakfast for dengue should focus on easily digestible foods that provide important nutrients. Consider options such as oatmeal and fruit, scrambled eggs and spinach, yogurt with honey and nuts, fruit smoothies, whole wheat toast and avocado, and boiled eggs and toast. These choices provide a balance of carbohydrates, protein, vitamins, and minerals to support recovery without taxing the digestive system. Do bananas and quarks help against dengue? Yes, both bananas and curd (yogurt) are effective against dengue. Bananas are easy to digest, rich in potassium and gentle on the stomach. Quark provides probiotics for gut health, and protein for recovery and has a hydrating effect.
Which fruits are best for dengue?
Fruits rich in Vitamin C such as oranges, papayas, and guavas are effective against dengue. They strengthen the immune system and provide important nutrients.
What kills the dengue virus?
Currently, there is no specific medicine that directly kills the dengue virus. Treatment focuses on relieving symptoms and providing supportive care such as B. Fluids to prevent dehydration and medicines to relieve fever and pain. Prevention through mosquito control remains the most important strategy to reduce dengue infection.
How long does dengue last?
The duration of dengue varies, but it usually lasts about 7-10 days. Symptoms include high fever, severe headache, pain behind the eyes, joint pain, muscle pain, rash, and slight bleeding. It is important to see a doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment of symptoms.
When should you see a doctor?
You should see a doctor if you have any of the following symptoms of dengue: high fever, severe headache, pain behind the eyes, joint pain, muscle pain, rash, or light bleeding. Seek immediate medical attention for proper diagnosis and treatment of dengue, especially if dengue symptoms worsen or if fever is difficult to control.
Treating dengue requires a combination of supportive care and attention to nutrition and hydration. Focusing on foods that support immune function, hydration, and ease of digestion can aid in managing post dengue fever symptoms and support the recovery process. It’s important to avoid foods that may worsen these symptoms and to stay vigilant for any signs that may need medical attention. If you or someone you know has symptoms of dengue fever, such as persistent high fever, severe headache, or unusual bleeding, seek medical attention immediately. Clinikk Health Hub, the best dengue treatment care facility in Bangalore, offers comprehensive care and support for dengue fever and post dengue recovery.
