What to Eat When You Have Chickenpox?

Top Foods to Boost Immunity During Chickenpox

Chickenpox is caused by the varicella-zoster virus and is a common childhood illness. It also sometimes affects adults as well. The symptoms of the disease include fever, fatigue, loss of appetite, and itchy rashes. While there is no proper cure for chickenpox, supportive care that includes adequate nutrition. It can help strengthen the immune system during this vital time. Read on to learn all about the foods to eat when you have chickenpox.

Importance of Proper Hydration

During chickenpox, people get a fever and skin infections, which can lead to dehydration, primarily in children. Hence, it is important to maintain proper hydration during this time. Water is ideal, but you can also have alternatives like coconut water, clear soups, and herbal tea. These fluids help maintain hydration, which is especially important during fever and illness, and may contribute to overall comfort.

Foods to Eat During Chickenpox

Chickenpox triggers an immune response as the body fights the viral infection. It is when the body needs extra resources in the form of nutrients to heal. The foods you can eat need to be soft and nutrient-rich, which are easily digestible. 

Here is an overview of the foods that you can eat during chickenpox:

Soft Grains

Soft grains like rice, porridge, and oatmeal provide essential energy during this time and are gentle on the stomach.

Steamed Vegetables

A few examples of steamed vegetables to have during this time are spinach, carrots, pumpkin, zucchini, etc. They are rich in vitamins A and C and actively help in skin healing.

Fruits

Fruits like papayas, bananas, and melons are non-acidic and packed with nutrients that support the immune system.

Protein-Rich Foods

There are a lot of protein-rich food sources which actively provide health benefits during this time. For example, tofu, eggs, and well-cooked lentils help repair tissues and fight against infection.

Yoghurt

Having yoghurt offers probiotics, which actively support an individual's immune health and gut function.

Foods to Avoid During Chickenpox

Now that you know about foods to eat, there are also a few categories of food you must avoid at all costs. This is because they can interfere with the healing process. It is necessary to avoid any such food that can have harmful effects on the digestive system and may trigger discomfort or inflammation. 

Here is an overview of such foods that need to be avoided during chickenpox:

Acidic or Spicy Foods

A few examples of such foods are citrus, chilli and tomatoes. They can irritate the mouth sores and also cause stomach upset.

Salty Snacks

Having pretzels and chips can lead to a stinging feeling, especially in the mouth sores.

Foods with Sugar Content

Sugary foods like sodas, candies, and cookies can weaken the immune system and promote inflammation. This might actively slow down the recovery process.

Fried or Greasy Foods

This includes processed fast foods and meats. They are generally difficult to digest and provide little to no digestive benefit.

Caffeinated Drinks

Having cola and coffee can contribute to dehydration, especially if there is a fever present.

While chickenpox generally resolves on its own, eating the right foods can make a big difference in their journey to recovery. A strong focus on proper hydration and eating nutrient-rich foods can speed up healing.

Reader information: This article is intended for general informational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. The dietary suggestions mentioned are meant to support overall health and comfort during chickenpox and do not cure or prevent the disease or alter its natural course. Nutritional needs may vary based on age, severity of illness, and individual health conditions. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making dietary or health-related decisions, especially for children, pregnant women, or individuals with underlying medical conditions.

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