Cases of dengue fever are rising in the country and it’s important to give your immune system a nutritional boost to prevent contracting the viral disease. Dengue is spread by the bite of an infected mosquito mostly aedes aegypti.

Symptoms and Solutions:

• Symptoms range from fever, body ache, nausea, vomiting, rash, to aches and pains.
• Dengue can be managed with adequate hydration and nutrition.
• The platelets must be monitored and if the symptoms worsen, a person must get hospitalised immediately.
• One must eat seasonal foods, stay physically active and avoid stress to boost immunity against the infection.

Deepti Khatuja, Head – Clinical Nutritionist, Fortis Memorial Research Institute, Gurgaon, India, suggests food groups to add to diet during this season to improve platelets, boost immunity and keep infections at bay:

• Fluids

Taking plenty of fluids and water is vital. Consume warm concoctions, herbal teas, broths, and soups. Along with these hot liquids, cold liquids like lemon water, buttermilk or lassi, coconut water etc are beneficial to improve the platelet count

• Fruits

Adding seasonal fruits like jamun, pears, plum, cherries, peaches, papaya, apples, and pomegranates supports the increasing demand of nutrients like Vitamin A, Vitamin C, antioxidants, and fibre.

• Vegetables

Various vitamins present in different coloured vegetables like Vitamin A, C along with minerals like zinc, magnesium etc. are good antioxidants and provide the immunity.

• Spices

Spices and herbs like turmeric, ginger, garlic, pepper, cinnamon, cardamom, and nutmeg are bestowed to support the immune system by regulating immune cells like T-cells that helps the body to defend off the pathogens.

• Nuts

Nuts and seeds are loaded with proteins, healthy fats, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.

• Probiotics

Include probiotics in the diet: Opt for yogurt, buttermilk, cheese and soybeans. Probiotics are packed with good bacteria that act on our digestive system and boost immunity.

Source: Hindustan Times