Doctor Dao Thi Yen Thuy, Head of the Diet and Nutrition Department at Tam Anh General Hospital in TP HCM, explains that dengue fever patients often experience prolonged high fever, excessive sweating, nausea, and poor appetite, which can lead to dehydration and electrolyte imbalance. Some cases also present with mild subcutaneous bleeding, nosebleeds, or bleeding gums. In addition to seeking medical attention and following prescribed treatments, nutrition plays a vital role in the treatment and recovery process.

Oresol (oral rehydration salts) mixed according to the instructions helps prevent dehydration, maintain circulatory volume, and stabilize blood pressure. Patients should sip small amounts frequently throughout the day and avoid consuming large quantities at once to prevent electrolyte disturbances.

Coconut water, containing potassium, sodium, and natural glucose, provides mild hydration, replenishes energy, and cools the body. Patients should avoid excessive consumption at once (no more than 500 ml at a time) and shouldn't completely replace regular water with coconut water.

Diluted orange or lemon juice provides vitamin C, strengthens the immune system, and replenishes fluids and minerals. If a patient is experiencing digestive issues, dilute the orange juice further and limit consumption on an empty stomach to avoid irritating the stomach.

Orange, coconut, and pennywort juices aid dengue fever recovery. Photo: Trong Nghia

Orange, coconut, and pennywort juices aid dengue fever recovery. Photo: Trong Nghia

Guava juice, rich in vitamin C, enhances resistance and helps strengthen blood vessels, a crucial factor for dengue fever patients. Freshly squeezed guava juice without added sugar should be consumed in moderate amounts to prevent constipation.

Pennywort juice has cooling and detoxifying properties, soothes the body, and helps heal damaged capillaries. Fresh pennywort can be blended and strained for consumption throughout the day. Continuous consumption for several days or high doses should be avoided, especially for those with a history of digestive disorders.

Doctor Yen Thuy advises patients to avoid stimulant beverages like coffee, strong tea, energy drinks, and carbonated soft drinks as they can increase urination and accelerate dehydration. Alcohol should also be avoided due to its immune-suppressing effects and increased risk of bleeding. Limit consumption of fried foods high in oil, spicy foods, difficult-to-digest foods, and processed foods high in salt and sugar. These can exacerbate digestive issues, causing bloating and hindering nutrient absorption.

Patients should also drink enough water (at least 2-2.5 liters daily) and consume soft, easily digestible, and nutritious foods like meat porridge, vegetable soup, and fresh fruit. During the fever-reducing stage, closely monitor for warning signs such as fatigue, excessive bleeding, infrequent urination, cold hands and feet, and abdominal pain, seeking immediate medical attention if the condition worsens.

Trong Nghia