How to counter and manage dengue with nutrition: 5 best foods to eat when you’re sick
While the month of September brings along the festive mood across the country with Ganesh Chaturthi (not to forget the upcoming Durga Puja and Navaratri), the onset of autumn, unfortunately, also witnesses a huge rise in dengue fever cases in many metropolitan Indian cities. Particularly in the northern part of India as autumn provides a perfect weather condition for the Aedes Aegypti mosquitoes to breed.
Dengue is actually viral flu that is transmitted through the bite of Aedes mosquitoes. The symptoms of this disease are high fever, headache, rash, muscle and joint pain, or in some cases, serious bleeding and shock. Sadly, there is no specific medicine or treatment for dengue. For typical dengue fever, the treatment is focussed on relieving the symptoms.
Natural ways to avoid or treat dengue fever
However, along with medicines, there are certain home remedies and foods one can include in the treatment plan to help counter and manage dengue effectively.
Papaya Leaves
Individuals who are suffering from dengue, papaya leaves are an excellent option to go for. Simply crush the papaya leaves and squeeze them to extract its juice. The extract increases platelet counts to a great extent. Also, you can boil the papaya leaves in water and drink the solution. It is one of the top home remedies for the treatment of dengue fever.
Pomegranate
Pomegranate is filled with vital nutrients and minerals that provide the body with the required energy. Consumption of pomegranate decreases the feeling of exhaustion and fatigue. Being a good source of iron, pomegranate proves out to be quite beneficial for the blood. It also assists in maintaining a normal blood platelet count which is important to recover from dengue.
Spinach
Spinach is a wonderful source of iron and omega-3 fatty acids which improves the immune system to a larger extent. It is a potent way to increase the level of platelet-count naturally.
Coconut Water
Dengue usually results in dehydration. Thus, it is highly beneficial to consume coconut water which is packed with electrolytes and vital nutrients. In several cases, ginger water is also suggested, because it helps to combat nausea that various dengue patients experience.
Fenugreek
Fenugreek is known to get one sleep and acts like a mild tranquillizer that helps in easing the pain. It helps in stabilising high fever which is a common dengue symptom.
What to avoid while recovering from dengue
The path to recovery after a dengue attack is not very easy. Though there are no specific dietary restrictions, you can make matters simple by adhering to a diet that is less oily and spicy at least for a certain period of days. Also, ensure that you consume food items that are easy to digest.
It would be better if you stop eating non-vegetarian food at least for some time. Increase your fluid intake and drink lukewarm water instead of normal or cold water.