Last Updated on May 7, 2023 by Shabnam Sengupta
Malaria is a disease caused by a parasite, in which the patient suffers from recurrent chills, high fever, headaches, vomiting, diarrhoea, muscle pain, dry cough, yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice), a drop in blood pressure upon standing. A person infected with the disease must consume a nutritious diet that is rich in nutrients. They should consume a diet that strengthens their immune systems and avoids foods that can strain their kidneys, liver and digestive systems. In this article, we will explore the foods that are good for malaria patients. We will also discuss the foods the one should avoid if they are suffering from malaria.
What foods should be avoided by patients with malaria?
If you have malaria, it is important to avoid certain foods that can aggravate your symptoms. You should avoid spicy, oily and fried foods. Such foods can cause digestive issues and increase inflammation in the body. Fermented foods, like pickles and sauerkraut, contain live bacteria that can be difficult for the digestive system to handle. You should avoid consuming processed foods as they often contain unhealthy fats, salt, and sugar that can weaken the immune system. Lastly, alcohol is bad for malaria patients as it can cause dehydration and weaken the immune system, making it harder for the body to fight off the virus.
Which foods are good for patients with malaria?
Malaria patients need more calories and nutrients. They should eat a diet high in carbohydrates, with rice being better than wheat for easier digestion and faster energy release. Fresh fruits and vegetables, particularly those rich in vitamin A and vitamin C like beetroot, carrot, papaya, pomegranate juice and citrus fruits can help detoxify the body and boost the patient’s immune system.
During fever, a person may have a decreased appetite and difficulty tolerating food. To compensate, it is important to consume fluids such as glucose water, fresh fruit juices, coconut water, sorbet made with lemon, salt, sugar, and electrolyte water. It is important to drink boiled sterilised water, and to consume fluids in various forms such as milkshakes, vegetable juice, lemon juices, rice water, and soups. Dieticians recommend drinking at least 3 to 3.5 litres of fluids per day, as this can help eliminate toxins from the body through urine and stools and promote faster recovery.
When someone is experiencing muscle loss, there is a greater need for protein in their diet. A combination of high-carbohydrate and high-protein foods is helpful because the body can use the protein for repairing and building muscles. Consuming dairy products like yoghurt, buttermilk, and lassi can be highly beneficial. Including fish stew, chicken soup, eggs, and legumes in the diet is also recommended. Although fats are essential for the body, it is important to consume them in moderation. Dairy fats such as cream, butter, and fats from milk products can aid in digestion because they contain MCT (medium-chain triglycerides). However, excessive fat consumption or eating fried foods can increase the risk of nausea, indigestion, and diarrhoea. It is best to avoid fats in your diet and instead focus on consuming Omega 3 fats, which can be found in fish, fish oil supplements, flax seeds, chia seeds, and walnuts. These types of fats are beneficial for reducing inflammation in the body.
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