Question
My 7-year-old son has recently been experiencing sore throat, severe cough, and low-grade fever, which may indicate tonsillitis. What dietary precautions should be taken when a child has tonsillitis?
Answer
When a child has tonsillitis, diet plays a crucial role. It is recommended to consume plenty of fresh vegetables and fruits, as the nutrients they provide can boost the immune system and aid in the repair of the tonsils. For instance, pears and apples have cooling and anti-inflammatory properties and can be eaten more frequently. Daily meals should be easy to digest, with porridge and soft noodles being the main options. Additionally, drinking plenty of plain water is advisable, while reducing the intake of foods that may trigger inflammation, such as beef and mutton, dog meat, and seafood should be minimized or avoided. It is also important to help the child develop good eating habits.