Question
My child is a 10-year-old boy in elementary school. He has a sore throat, which is painful when he drinks water, and he is also experiencing severe coughing and a slight fever. What should I pay attention to in terms of diet when my child has tonsillitis with a high fever?
Answer
When a child has tonsillitis, dietary management is just as crucial as treatment. It is recommended that during the illness, the child’s diet should be soft, easy to digest, and nutritionally rich. Encourage them to eat more vegetables and fruits while reducing the intake of spicy and irritating foods. Vegetables and fruits are rich in various vitamins and minerals that can help boost the child’s immunity. For example, apples and kiwis have the effect of resolving phlegm, moistening the lungs, and are beneficial in alleviating tonsillitis. For staple foods, opt for soft items like congee or noodles, which are easy to swallow and can prevent constipation caused by difficulty in eating, which may worsen the condition. Additionally, avoid giving the child allergenic or throat-irritating foods such as seafood or dog meat. These foods can trigger allergies or irritate the throat, which is detrimental to the condition. At the same time, be mindful to correct any picky eating or aversion to food habits, ensuring they receive a balanced diet to aid in recovery.