Question
A 7-year-old boy, initially complaining of a sore throat, has been experiencing severe coughing and a slight fever. What dietary restrictions should be observed for children with difficulty swallowing due to tonsillitis?
Answer
When a child has tonsillitis, the first dietary priority is to maintain a light diet. Focus on vegetables and fruits, as they are rich in nutrients that can help boost the child’s immunity and aid in the repair of the tonsils. Options include pears, watermelons, tangerines, and pomegranates. For vegetables, green leafy vegetables and tomatoes are good choices. For staple foods, opt for softer options like congee or noodles to avoid affecting swallowing or causing constipation that may worsen the condition. Avoid giving children foods that are likely to trigger an allergic reaction during this stage, such as beef, mutton, poultry eggs, and seafood. Also, steer clear of spicy dishes like hotpot and Sichuan hotpot. In daily life, it is important to help children develop good habits. This includes not just healthy eating but also early to bed and early to rise, as well as moderate exercise.