Question
A 7-year-old boy has just started elementary school and is experiencing a sore throat and severe cough. Now, he has a persistent high fever, suggesting an inflammatory condition of the tonsils. In this situation, how should the child’s diet be adjusted? What are the things to be aware of?
Answer
When a child has tonsillitis and shows symptoms of low fever, the following points should be considered in their diet:
- The daily diet should be light. Include more vegetables and fruits, as they are rich in nutrients that can boost the child’s immunity and aid in the repair of the tonsils. For example, tangerine peel is rich in vitamin C and has good anti-inflammatory effects.
- Choose easy-to-swallow and digestible staple foods such as congee and noodles to avoid affecting swallowing or causing constipation, which may worsen the condition.
- Ensure the child drinks plenty of water.
- Reduce or avoid eating foods like mutton and dog meat, which are considered to be spicy.
- Help the child develop good living habits, including healthy eating, early to bed and early to rise, and moderate exercise.