A person suffering from typhoid needs to modify their diet to accommodate their current condition. During this time, it is important to focus on a diet that is rich in carbohydrates and proteins, while avoiding certain foods that may exacerbate the symptoms.
Here are some guidelines to follow:
Foods to Include:
Carbohydrate-rich foods:
Increase your intake of foods high in carbohydrates as they provide energy and are gentle on the stomach. Incorporate items such as porridge, baked potatoes, and boiled rice in a semi-solid form, as they are easily digestible.
High-calorie diet:
Typhoid patients often experience weight loss during the infection. To manage or prevent this, consume enough food to match your calorie requirements. Opt for easily digestible high-calorie foods such as bananas, potatoes, bread, cereals, and other similar options.
Ample fluid intake:
Typhoid can lead to severe dehydration, so it’s important to consume plenty of fluids to provide essential nutrients and maintain fluid balance. Stay hydrated by consuming beverages like lassie, lime juice, fruit juices, water-rich fruits, buttermilk, glucose water, and coconut water.
Omega-3 fatty acids:
Include foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, as they can help reduce inflammation and bloating associated with typhoid fever. Sources of omega-3 fatty acids include soya beans, eggs, and nuts.
Dairy products:
Typhoid patients may experience protein deficiency during the fever. Incorporate dairy products like yogurt and milk into your diet to ensure an adequate protein intake. Yogurt, in particular, contains bifid bacteria, which can help alleviate bloating and promote better bowel movements.
Foods to Avoid:
High-fiber foods:
Steer clear of foods that are high in fiber, as they can be difficult to digest and put additional strain on the digestive system. Avoid raw fruits, vegetables, oats, barley, seeds, whole grains, nuts, and legumes.
Spicy foods:
Say no to spicy food items during typhoid infection, as they can irritate the digestive system and increase inflammation. Avoid hot peppers, jalapeños, paprika, cayenne pepper, chili, vinegar, and other spicy ingredients.
Oily and fried foods:
Eliminate fried and oily foods from your diet, as they are hard to digest and can put pressure on your stomach. Avoid items like chips, pakoras, and fried foods.
Specific vegetables:
Some vegetables, including cabbage, broccoli, and cauliflower, and asparagus, can cause gas and bloating, increasing discomfort during typhoid. It’s best to avoid them temporarily.
Dry fruits: Although
healthy, dry fruits have a high fiber content. Reduce the pressure on your stomach by avoiding walnuts, almonds, and pistachios during typhoid.
Other Considerations:
Consume mainly semi-liquid food items during typhoid, as they are easier to digest and relieve digestive distress.
Include highly nutritious soups such as vegetable, chicken, spinach, carrot, and mushroom soups.
Ensure water is boiled or filtered before drinking to maintain proper hydration.
Add yellow dal (lentils) to your diet for additional nutrients.
Opt for 4-5 small frequent meals instead of 2-3 large portions to ease digestion.
Include boiled vegetables in your diet as they are easily digestible and highly nutritious.
Herbal teas with antimicrobial properties, such as a mixture of yarrow, neem, and sage steeped in water, can also aid in hydration.
Honey can be added to warm water to meet your body’s sugar requirements during typhoid. It possesses antimicrobial properties and can help soothe the digestive system.
Please note that while these food items can support your recovery, they do not act as a substitute for medical treatment. Following these guidelines will provide your body with the necessary energy, nutrients, carbohydrates, and proteins that may be affected during typhoid fever.
Additional Tips:
Avoid butter and ghee, as they are difficult to digest.
Say no to legumes like lentils, chickpeas, and kidney beans, as they can cause gas.
Eliminate foods containing onion and garlic, as they may contribute to inflammation.
Limit or avoid pumpkin seeds, flax seeds, and chia seeds.
Steer clear of fatty foods such as mozzarella sticks, doughnuts, potato chips, fried chicken, and onion rings.
We understand that it can be challenging to stick to a bland diet during typhoid, but it is crucial for your recovery. By paying attention to your diet, you’ll not only feel better but also increase your chances of a speedy recovery.