Question
A 3-year-old boy has recently started experiencing throat discomfort, severe coughing, and slight fever, leading to difficulty in swallowing. What dietary principles should be noted when a child has tonsillitis?
Answer
For children with tonsillitis, it is recommended to start with daily dietary adjustments. It is suggested to have the child consume fresh vegetables and fruits, which are light and non-irritating, rich in nutrients, and helpful in boosting immunity. For example, pears are nutritious and can help reduce fever, soothe the throat, expectorate phlegm, and relieve pain, aiding in alleviating the discomfort caused by acute tonsillitis. It is recommended to have a diet that is light, easy to digest, and convenient for swallowing, such as congee and noodles. At this stage, it is advisable to avoid giving children red meat, lamb, poultry eggs, and seafood, which can easily trigger inflammation, as well as spicy foods like spicy hotpot. Meanwhile, encourage children to develop good eating habits, avoid fussy eating, to ensure a balanced diet and reduce the risk of tonsillitis.