Chikungunya is a flavivirus spread due to the infected bite of the Aedes Aegypti mosquito, which is also responsible for spreading other viruses with similar symptoms such as dengue or Zika. Although there is no particular treatment for this condition, having adequate rest and eating certain nutritious foods will be vital to ensuring a faster recovery.
Due to their properties and nutrients, some ingredients favor the elevation in the level of platelets, hydration, and the strengthening and recovery of the immune system, a pivotal aspect of fighting against the virus. If you are suffering from this condition and want to overcome it as soon as possible, keep reading. In this FastlyHealarticle, we explain what to eat if you have chikungunya.
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Why is it important to hydrate and eat correctly?
Chikungunya is a condition that produces excellent physical discomfort, causing fever and other symptoms such as fatigue, muscle pain, and joint pain. In addition to the viral infection itself, a decrease in platelet levels causes several of these manifestations. It is essential to rest, stay adequately hydrated, and consume some foods that provide nutrients and vitamins to counteract these symptoms.
The drinks and fruits rich in vitamin C are highly recommended for patients with this condition, as well as providing the liquid must also help our immune system more robust and more effective way to fight against the disease. Good hydration also helps lower fever and reduce discomfort.
On the other hand, certain ingredients are associated with the increase of platelets, being useful in chikungunya cases.
Citrus juices for a robust immune system
Hydration is an essential aspect of any virus that causes fever. Having a high temperature reduces the level of fluid in the body. Suppose we do not consume the adequate amount to replace it. In that case, it will not only be difficult to reduce body temperature, but we also run the risk of becoming severely dehydrated, worsening the condition.
To avoid this, it is recommended to consume abundant natural citrus fruit juices; hydrating us will provide vitamin C, which is essential to guarantee an efficient and healthy immune system that helps us fight against infection.
Fruits such as:
- Guava is better if you mix it with red pepper to boost its vitamin C intake.
- The Orange.
- The lemonade.
- Tangerine.
- Pineapple This fruit is beneficial because it contains bromelain that helps reduce inflammation, improving the condition of the joints when we contract this disease.
Coconut water, hydration, and nutrition
Coconut water has become one of the best alternatives for the treatment of viruses such as dengue, Zika, and also chikungunya. In addition to hydrating, this drink provides vitamin A, C, and minerals such as potassium, iron, and calcium, which contribute to strengthening defenses, raising platelets, and improving the state of muscles and bones by reducing the pain.
Vegetable creams and soups rich in vitamin A and C
Among the eating options, if you have chikungunya, vegetable creams are the most suitable and nutritious alternatives. Due to their texture and easy digestion, they are ideal for those who do not have much appetite, providing valuable nutrients that contribute to the recovery. Vegetables rich in vitamin A, C and iron help improve our immune system, allowing it to fight effectively against the virus.
You can choose alternatives such as:
- Broccoli and celery cream.
- Carrot cream with red pepper.
- Cream of canons or screams.
- I mixed vegetable soup with carrot, potato, celery, and onion.
- Chicken soup, a nutritious option that combines the contribution of vegetables and this meat, is ideal for promoting recovery.
Omega 3 foods to reduce inflammation
Joint inflammation is one of the main symptoms of this condition, so a time to eat if you have chikungunya should incorporate foods rich in omega 3 in the diet. This essential fatty acid helps reduce inflammation and improves the intensity of this symptom. It is recommended to eat products such as:
- The egg, specifically the yolk.
- Even in tiny quantities, bluefish such as tuna, sardines, salmon, or trout.
- Seeds like chia or flaxseed can be crushed into fruit juices, broths, and soups.
- Nuts.
- Vegetables like broccoli and spinach.
This article is merely informative, at FastlyHeal .com we do not have the power to prescribe medical treatments or make any type of diagnosis. We invite you to see a doctor in the case of presenting any type of condition or discomfort.
If you want to read more articles similar to What to eat if I have chikungunya, we recommend that you enter our Immune System category .
I am a Surgeon with a diploma in comprehensive ultrasound and surgical care residency, an area I am specializing in. During the exercise of my profession, I have realized the need for patients to know the diseases they suffer, and I can tell you that a large part of their complications is due to a lack of information. Being a health web writer allows me to transmit my experience, without borders, to all those readers eager for knowledge, educate them in the prevention of diseases and promote a healthy lifestyle.