Knowledge of the chicken pox diet is very helpful in the recovery process of this disease. A proper diet will support your immune system, help you heal faster, and reduce the chances of any further complications.
Most of the time, chicken pox targets the little ones. If the adults are not vaccinated against the varicella virus, they can also get into the grips of this disease.
In this blog, you will gain insights into the types of foods that can help you reduce and recover from the itchy illness of chicken pox. So stay tuned!
What Is Chicken Pox And How Is It Transmitted?
Chickenpox is a highly infectious viral infection. The varicella-zoster virus (VZV) is the cause of it. Studies from NIH, state that live attenuated varicella virus is very effective against chicken pox.
When you come in contact with an infected person’s respiratory droplets after they cough or sneeze, then you can get this infection. Direct touch with the infected person’s blister fluid can infect you too.
The chicken pox symptoms can last from 10-21 days after exposure to the virus. The primary symptom of chickenpox is a red, itchy rash that starts as small red spots and develops into fluid-filled blisters.
Other symptoms are rashes, fever, fatigue, headache, loss of appetite, and sore throat. A proper chicken pox diet can help in fast recovery from this disease.
What To Eat In Chicken Pox?
A balanced diet provides the body with essential nutrients, energy, and hydration, which is required during the chicken pox treatment.
During the recovery period, one should focus on antiviral foods (like garlic, and turmeric) and antihistamine foods to reduce infection. Antihistamine foods (like orange, and bell pepper) will help you reduce the histamine level in the body, which will prevent you from scratching the blisters.
While you are planning your diet for chicken pox, make sure you add a good amount of protein, zinc, and omega-3 fatty acids. Also, add vitamin C and vitamin A rich foods along with fluids for proper hydration.
Foods To Add In Your Diet For Chicken Pox
Here is the list of foods that you can add to the diet for chicken pox:
1. Vitamin C Rich Fruits: It is known for their immune-boosting properties and their role in collagen synthesis. This helps in speedy recovery and also helps in curing the rashes on the skin.
Below are vitamin C rich fruits that you can have during chicken pox.
- Amla (Indian gooseberry)
- Oranges
- Guava
- Kiwi
- Mango
2. Zinc-Rich Foods: Zinc improves the immune system by supporting the formation of immune cells and healing wounds in the body. They also provide you with omega-3 fatty acids in the chicken pox diet that support the immune system.
Foods rich in zinc that you can have during chicken pox are as follows:
- Lean meats (chicken)
- Dairy products (yogurt, cheese, milk)
- Legumes (beans, lentils, chickpeas)
- Nuts and seeds (pumpkin seeds, cashews, almonds)
3. Antioxidant-Rich Vegetables: These vegetables are also rich in vitamins A, C, and E, and they are good for fast recovery from chicken pox. Here are some foods that you can have during chicken pox illness:
- Dark leafy greens (spinach, kale, Swiss chard)
- Bell peppers (especially red and yellow)
- Broccoli
- Carrots
- Sweet potatoes
4. Soups and Broths: They are easy to consume and provide you with energy, essential nutrients, and hydration to recover from chicken pox. Try these healthy soups for fast recovery from chicken pox:
5. Soft Fruits: These fruits will be light on the stomach and also provide essential nutrients to boost your immune system to fight against the virus. Include these soft fruits in your diet during chicken pox:
- Bananas
- Ripe guava
- Cooked apples
- Peeled and soft pears
- Papaya
6. Whole Grains: They provide a steady and sustained release of energy, which helps the person recover from fatigue with the help of a chicken pox diet. Here you have healthy ways to include whole grains during chicken pox:
- Khichdi made with rice and moong dal
- Daliya (broken wheat porridge)
- Soft chapatis or rotis
- Rice (well-cooked and easily digestible)
One-Day Sample Chicken Pox Meal Plan
This sample chicken pox meal plan will give you an idea of how to include all the essential nutrients, which are required to fight against the illness. Here is a one day diet plan that you can refer to:
Foods To Avoid In A Chicken Pox Meal Plan
When someone is suffering from chicken pox, it is good to avoid certain foods that can irritate the digestive system and increase the symptoms. So, avoid these foods for early recovery from chicken pox:
- Spicy foods
- Oily and fried foods
- Sour foods
- Hard and crunchy foods
- Coffee
- Alcohol
- Processed and packaged foods
- Carbonated drinks
Bottomline
During chicken pox, the foods you choose should be easy to digest, gentle on the stomach, and rich in essential nutrients. A well-balanced chicken pox diet not only aids in recovery but also supports the immune system in its battle against this viral infection.
Foods that you include should be a great source of vitamins A and C, minerals such as zinc, and antioxidants. Along with food, hydration plays a vital role, so include water, ginger tea, other herbal teas, and soups.
Moreover, it is also essential to avoid foods that can irritate your digestive system, such as spicy, oily, and acidic foods. Choose for smaller, more frequent meals to prevent any unnecessary strain on your body.
So, by focusing on a thoughtfully customized diet, you can support your body to fight off the chickenpox virus and work towards a speedy recovery.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Consume Dairy Products During Chickenpox?
Moderate amounts of dairy are generally fine. Excess dairy intake may increase mucus production for some individuals. Excessive mucus production during chickenpox may cause discomfort and worsen respiratory symptoms like coughing or congestion.
How Important Is Hydration During Chickenpox?
Hydration is crucial during chickenpox as it helps soothe discomfort, aids recovery, and prevents complications. Adequate fluid intake helps manage fever, prevents dehydration, and supports overall well-being during the illness.
Can We Eat Eggs During Chicken Pox?
Yes, eggs are generally safe to eat during a chicken pox diet and can provide a good source of protein.
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Disclaimer
This blog post was written to help you make healthy and better food choices. So, be aware and take care. The most important thing to consider is your health before starting a restrictive diet. Always seek advice from a doctor or dietitian before starting, if you have any concerns.
Eat healthy and live healthy. Enjoy a long, happy life.
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