Dengue fever cases are on the rise in the nation, so it’s critical to strengthen your immune system nutritionally to avoid getting the viral illness. To boost your immunity against the infection, you should eat foods that are in season, stay active, and avoid stress. Dengue is usually spread by the bite of an infected Aedes aegypti mosquito. Symptoms range from fever, body aches, nausea, vomiting, and rash, to aches and pains. It is crucial to be examined if you are exhibiting any of these symptoms. With the right diet and hydration, dengue may be controlled. The platelets need to be watched, and if the person’s symptoms get worse, they need to go to the hospital right away.
Deepti Khatuja, Head – Clinical Nutritionist, Fortis Memorial Research Institute, Gurgaon suggests food groups to add to the diet during this season and in dengue to improve platelets, boost immunity and keep infections at bay.
• Fluids
It’s crucial to drink enough fluids, particularly water. Warm mixtures, herbal teas, broths, and soups should be consumed. In addition to these hot beverages, cool liquids such as coconut water, lemon water, buttermilk or lassi, etc. are helpful to increase the platelet count. These fluids help the body stay hydrated, maintain electrolyte balance, cleanse the body, and are crucial for developing a strong immune system. There is no concrete proof that drinking just coconut water and juices would boost platelets. There is no proof that consuming papaya leaf juice or goat milk raises the platelet count.
•Fruits
The rising need for nutrients like Vitamin A, Vitamin C, antioxidants, and fiber is supported by including seasonal fruits including Jamun, pears, plums, cherries, peaches, papaya, apples, and pomegranates. These fruits enhance digestion, preserve intestinal flora, and stimulate the immune system.
• Vegetables
Add seasonal vegetables of different colors to your regular diet. This will help keep your gut healthy and your immune system working well. Various vitamins present in different colored vegetables like Vitamin A and Vitamin C, along with minerals like zinc, magnesium, etc., are good antioxidants and provide immunity.
• Spices
Herbs and spices with anti-inflammatory, antifungal, antiviral, antimicrobial, and immune-boosting qualities include turmeric, ginger, garlic, pepper, cinnamon, cardamom, and nutmeg. They do an incredible job of controlling immune cells like T-cells, which aid in the body’s defense against infections, to strengthen the immune system. During this season, include enough of these spices in your normal meals to improve your general health.
• Nuts
Nuts and seeds are loaded with proteins, healthy fats, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
• Probiotics
Choose yogurt, buttermilk, cheese kefir, kombucha, and soybeans to add probiotics to your diet. Good bacteria found in probiotics operate on our digestive systems and increase immunity.
Your diet affects your immunity and nutrition. As a result, one should pay attention to what one consumes. While eating well and keeping up with your hygiene will help keep you safe throughout the rainy season, infections are always a possibility.
