What should people with viral fever eat and avoid?

Viral fever, also known as viral fever, is the general term for fever caused by various viral infections. It is a sign of persistent viral infection in the body. People with weakened immune systems, children, and the elderly are more susceptible to viral fever.

Always be vigilant, do not take viral fever lightly. If you are experiencing some signs and symptoms of viral fever, consult your doctor. With adequate rest, hydration, and a balanced diet, you can support your body's immune system and recover from viral fever effectively.

1. The importance of diet for people with viral fever

Eating a healthy, balanced diet helps your body function properly. Nutrient-rich foods help fight infection and can help prevent disease.

When having a viral fever, the body will become weak and lose a lot of nutrients. Therefore, having a reasonable diet is extremely important to help people with viral fever quickly recover their health.

You should drink plenty of water when you have a viral fever. Illustration photo.

Here are some reasons why diet plays an important role in people with viral fever:

Replenish water and electrolytes: Fever often causes patients to lose water and electrolytes through sweat. Drinking plenty of water and electrolyte-supplementing drinks such as coconut water and oresol will help you replenish lost water and electrolytes, and help your body function better.

Strengthen the immune system : Some foods can help strengthen the immune system, helping the body fight viruses better. For example, foods rich in vitamin C (oranges, lemons, guava...), zinc (chicken, beef...) and vitamin A (carrots, sweet potatoes...).

Providing energy: When suffering from viral fever, patients often feel tired and lack energy. Eating a nutritious diet will help replenish the energy needed for the body to function.

Alleviate symptoms: Some foods help relieve symptoms of colds and flu, such as ginger, garlic, honey, etc.

2. Important nutrients for people with viral fever

According to doctors at the Department of Gastrointestinal Infectious Diseases (A4B) - 108 Military Central Hospital, viral fever mainly treats symptoms, while supporting the immune system to promote the body's recovery process. In cases of fever above 38.5 degrees Celsius, reduce the fever by taking paracetamol, wiping the body with warm water, and wearing cool clothes. Pay attention to giving the patient plenty of water, and replenishing electrolytes by drinking oresol and fruit juice. The patient needs to rest a lot and ensure scientific nutrition, eat easily digestible foods such as porridge, and eat on time to improve physical condition and the immune system.

2.1 Foods to eat when having viral fever

Besides avoiding certain foods, it is advisable to increase consumption of foods rich in nutrients that support the immune system and aid recovery from viral fever.

Hydration: Drink plenty of fluids such as water, herbal teas, clear broths, and electrolyte-rich drinks to stay hydrated and flush toxins from your body.

Foods rich in vitamin C : Include fruits and vegetables rich in vitamin C, such as citrus fruits, berries, bell peppers, and green leafy vegetables. Consuming vitamin C increases the production of white blood cells, strengthens the immune system, and helps the body fight infections.

Protein-rich foods: Consuming lean protein sources like poultry, lean meat, fish, legumes boosts the immune system by supporting antibody production, aiding in tissue repair.

Easy-to-digest foods : Prepare foods that are warm and easy to digest, such as soups, stews, and cooked vegetables. These foods provide nutrition while being gentle on the digestive system.

Whole grains, fiber: Whole grains like oats, brown rice, and whole wheat bread are rich in nutrients that support the immune system. Similarly, high-fiber foods like fruits and vegetables can aid digestion.

Increase protein-rich foods to increase resistance. Illustration photo.

2.2 Foods to avoid when having viral fever

Proper nutrition plays an important role in supporting the immune system and aiding recovery, so there are certain foods to avoid when suffering from a viral fever to prevent further discomfort and aid the recovery process.

Sugary foods: Avoid foods high in refined sugar, such as sweets, sugary drinks, and processed snacks. Eating too much sugar can weaken your immune system, making it harder for your body to fight off viral infections.

Fried and fatty foods: Fried foods such as deep-fried snacks and greasy fast foods should be avoided as much as possible. These foods are often high in unhealthy fats and can cause digestive problems and discomfort, making recovery more difficult.

Spicy foods : Spicy foods can irritate the throat, making coughs and soreness worse. Avoid eating hot peppers, hot sauces, and overly spiced foods when you have a viral fever.

Dairy products : Dairy products, such as milk, cheese, and yogurt, can thicken mucus, worsening congestion and respiratory symptoms. Dairy consumption should be limited during illness.

Caffeinated and alcoholic beverages: Avoid caffeinated beverages such as coffee, energy drinks, and alcoholic beverages as they can dehydrate the body, hindering the healing process.

Do not drink coffee, alcoholic beverages... when having a viral fever. Illustration photo.

3. How to recover from viral fever and treat at home?

Here are some ways to treat viral fever at home and recover from viral fever:

• Rest: Allow your body plenty of time to recover by getting plenty of rest.
• Hydration: Drink fluids such as water, herbal teas, or oral rehydration solutions to stay hydrated and replace lost fluids.
• Controlling fever: Over-the-counter medications for viral fevers, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, can help control fever and discomfort. Follow the dosage instructions your doctor prescribes. Take only medications prescribed by your doctor.
• Nutrition: Eat a balanced diet with easily digestible foods, including fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins.
• Isolation: Stay home to prevent the spread of the virus, rest until symptoms are gone.
• Follow medical advice, monitor symptoms: Monitor symptoms and if they worsen or persist, seek medical attention. If a fever of 39°C or higher lasts for more than three days and antiviral medications do not help, see a doctor immediately.
• Prevent reinfection: Practice good hygiene to avoid reinfection and protect others.
• Get active gradually: Slowly resume physical activity as you regain strength, avoiding strenuous exercise.

Source: https://giadinh.suckhoedoisong.vn/nguoi-bi-sot-sieu-vi-nen-an-gi-kieng-gi-172240520161919732.htm