Fever leaves you weak, tired and with no interest in food. What I have always noticed is that during a fever, a simple bowl of warm khichdi or dal rice is far more comforting than a heavy meal. Although food does not cure the issue that is causing the fever, the right diet can do a great job in keeping you hydrated, in maintaining your energy levels and in getting the necessary nutrients your body requires during the process of recovery.
What Is a Fever Diet?
A fever diet isn’t a strict diet or a weight loss plan. It means choosing between very light, very nutritious and easy-to-digest foods and increasing your fluid intake. Also, during a fever, your appetite may drop, which is ok; instead of large meals, try to have small ones every few hours, which will be easier on the body.
Main focus is on hydration, appropriate calorie intake, moderate protein and easy-to-digest foods.
Stay Hydrated During Fever
Hydration is the first priority when you have a fever. Also note that sweating and poor food and fluid intake may lead to dehydration.
Drink water very often throughout the day. As per your symptoms, we may also suggest ORS, coconut water, clear soups and plain buttermilk. In case nausea is present, which makes it hard to drink, try to take small sips very often instead of large quantities at once.
Best Foods to Eat During Fever
Khichdi and Soft Rice Recipes.
Moong dal khichdi, soft rice with dal and very well-prepared rice-based dishes are a great source of carbs for energy and are easy to digest. Also, a little ghee may be added if it agrees with you.
Dal and Other Lean Protein Sources.
Protein is a key element in the recovery process. As for sources of protein, moong dal, masoor dal, curd, paneer and milk are great options if they agree with you. If your stomach is sensitive, start with small amounts.
Fruit and Prepared Vegetables.
Bananas, ripe papaya and cooked apples are also a great choice. As for soft cooked veggies, try carrots, bottle gourd and spinach, which, in addition to being full of vitamins and minerals, will not make your meals heavy.
Broths and Warm Beverages.
Light veg or dal soups are a great source of both fluids and nutrition. Also, warm foods may do the body good when fever is accompanied by a sore throat or general discomfort.
Foods to Limit During Fever
There is not a set of foods that all people should avoid at all times, but certain foods do tend to do more harm when you are ill. Deep-fried snack foods, very spicy curries, over-processed items, high-caffeine and alcohol drinks, and super sugary beverages are best to limit.
I also suggest you not force yourself into eating what are put forth as “fever foods”. Your appetite and taste for them are what is important.
A Simple Fever Meal Routine
A typical day may start with oats, soft idli or a light rice-based meal. For lunch, try moong dal with rice or khichdi and cooked veggies. Also, for in-between meals, go for fruits, curd or buttermilk. Dinner may include simple things like dal-rice, khichdi or a soup.
It is not necessary to follow a strict menu. Eat little at a time, drink plenty of fluids at separate intervals, and as your appetite improves, return to your regular balanced diet.
Final Thoughts
A proper diet for a fever is that which is mainly based on hydration, nutrition and simplicity. You do not require expensive health foods or complex recipes. Common Indian foods like khichdi, dal, rice, yoghurt, fruits and light soups may make recovery easier.
However, diet is supportive in nature and is not a replacement for medical treatment. In case of persistent, worsening or atypical high fever, severe weakness, breathing difficulty, confusion, repeated vomiting or signs of dehydration, see a health care professional.
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