Question
A 13-year-old boy, in elementary school, began to feel a sore throat while speaking, noticed difficulty in swallowing, and also had a slight fever and lack of energy. What should be paid attention to in the diet when a child has tonsillitis and swelling?
Answer
While treating a child’s tonsillitis, dietary considerations are also of great importance. It is generally recommended to have children consume more fruits and vegetables. The reason for encouraging the consumption of vegetables and fruits is mainly to supplement vitamins and trace elements to help boost their immunity and facilitate recovery. Fruits like pears and apples have cooling and anti-inflammatory properties and can be eaten more. In daily meals, attention should be given to easily digestible and easy-to-swallow foods, so thin gruel and noodles are recommended as the main dishes. The noodles must be cooked soft. However, it is also important to avoid spicy and irritant foods, as well as certain triggering substances during this stage. Lastly, it should be helpful to cultivate good eating habits in children, avoiding picky eating, to promote comprehensive nutrition and reduce the incidence of tonsillitis.