Question
My son is 11 years old and was recently diagnosed with tonsillitis. He has difficulty swallowing, no appetite, and is feverish and listless. How should I adjust his diet to promote recovery?
Answer
When a child has tonsillitis, it’s recommended to provide light, nutritious foods, which can help alleviate symptoms and boost immunity.
- Vegetables and fruits: Encourage your child to eat more vegetables and fruits, such as apples and kiwis, which can help resolve phlegm, moisten the lungs, and soothe the throat.
- Starches: Choose soft and easy-to-swallow starches like congee or noodles to avoid affecting swallowing and causing constipation, which may worsen the condition.
- Avoid spicy and greasy foods: Do not give your child spicy, greasy, or stimulating foods as they may exacerbate throat discomfort.
- Correct bad habits: Help your child correct picky eating or anorexia habits to ensure they receive a balanced diet. Remember, maintaining adequate nutrition and hydration is important for a child’s recovery during treatment. If symptoms persist or worsen, please consult your doctor.