Question
An 8-year-old girl recently experienced a sore throat and mild cough, accompanied by a slight fever. Her parents want to know what dietary precautions should be taken when a child has tonsillitis and a mild fever.
Answer
When a child has tonsillitis, it is recommended to provide a light diet. Vegetables and fruits are rich in nutrients and should be encouraged for the child to eat more. These foods contain nutrients that can help boost the child’s immunity and promote the healing of the tonsils. For example, pears have the effects of lowering body temperature, soothing the throat, resolving phlegm, and relieving pain, which can alleviate the sore throat caused by acute tonsillitis. Other easily digestible foods, such as congee and noodles, are also good choices. In addition, spicy and irritating foods and “allergenic substances” that may cause allergic reactions should be avoided. Parents should help their children develop good dietary and lifestyle habits, which will help them recover sooner. In addition to following the doctor’s treatment, appropriate diet and lifestyle are equally important in the treatment and recovery process of pediatric tonsillitis.