Question
A three-year-old boy is experiencing sore throat, worsening cough, and persistent fever, diagnosed with tonsillitis. How should the child’s diet be adjusted to alleviate discomfort in this situation?
Answer
During the treatment of tonsillitis, it is recommended to adopt a light diet and increase the intake of vegetables and fruits. Many fruits have the effect of clearing heat and detoxifying, and are rich in vitamins, which help boost immunity and fight against diseases. Choices of fruits include pears, watermelons, tangerines, and pomegranates. For vegetables, green leafy vegetables and tomatoes are good options. Daily meals should focus on easy-to-digest and easy-to-swallow foods, so it is suggested to mainly consume porridge and soft noodles. At the same time, parents should avoid letting the child eat spicy and irritant food, and avoid picky eating to prevent nutritional deficiencies that may lead to decreased resistance and increased risk of recurrence.