Diet For Chicken Pox: Foods to Eat and Avoid

Did you know that the proper diet can significantly impact your recovery from chicken pox? When dealing with this uncomfortable and itchy condition, what you eat is critical in your healing process. The diet for chicken pox focuses on foods that enhance your immune system and promote skin healing while avoiding those that may worsen symptoms or slow down recovery.

What foods to eat during Chicken Pox

Focusing on foods that aid healing and boost the immune system is crucial when dealing with chicken pox. A well-balanced diet or a good food for chicken pox can help support the body's fight against the virus and promote a faster recovery. The following are some examples of foods to eat chicken pox:

• Organic fruits and vegetables are essential components of a chicken pox diet. Citrus fruits, rich in Vitamin C, help strengthen the immune system. Oranges, lemons, and grapefruits are excellent choices. Nutrient-dense fruits like papaya, mangoes, and guava provide folate, potassium, and vitamins A, C, and K. 
• Leafy greens and vegetables such as spinach, carrots, bell peppers, and broccoli offer vital vitamins and minerals, including iron and calcium, which support the body's healing process.
• Protein helps repair and rebuild tissues affected by the virus. Consuming adequate protein-rich foods can speed up recovery and minimise complications. Soft proteins like boiled chicken, poached fish, and tofu are easy to eat and digest. Plant-based options such as lentils and beans are also excellent sources of protein.
• Dairy products contribute to the healing of skin lesions due to their calcium content. Milk, paneer, and buttermilk support cell growth and regeneration, minimising scarring and promoting faster recovery. Yoghurt, kefir, and cottage cheese are rich in calcium and provide probiotics that support gut health.
• Healthy fats are vital in supporting the immune system and reducing inflammation. To benefit from these essential nutrients, include almonds, walnuts, flaxseeds, chia seeds, and olive oil.
• Staying hydrated is crucial during chicken pox, as the disease can cause high fever and sweating, resulting in dehydration. Drink plenty of water, herbal teas, fruit-infused water, and fresh fruit juices without added sugar. Coconut water is an excellent natural source of electrolytes.

Incorporating these food items into the diet can help alleviate symptoms, boost immunity, and promote faster healing during chicken pox. Remember to consult a doctor or dietician for personalised dietary advice, especially if there are any specific health concerns or dietary restrictions.

What Foods to Avoid During Chicken Pox

While there isn't a specific diet for chicken pox, certain foods can aggravate symptoms and slow the healing process. It's crucial to avoid these foods to support recovery and prevent complications.

• Spicy and oily foods top the list of items to avoid. These can worsen itching and irritate the skin. Spicy foods contain capsaicin, which can exacerbate skin irritation and intensify itching. It's best to avoid deep-fried food and snacks such as samosas, pakoras, greasy curries, and heavily spiced dishes.
• Acidic, salty, or crunchy foods should also be avoided, especially if sores are on the lips, mouth, or tongue. These can further irritate oral lesions, causing discomfort and slowing the healing process.
• High sugar intake can negatively impact immune function, hindering healing and increasing susceptibility to complications. Doctors generally advise avoiding sugary drinks like sodas and packaged fruit juices. Similarly, desserts can put additional stress on the immune system and impede recovery. These include:
  • Cakes
  • Cookies
  • Ice cream
  • Chocolate
• By being mindful of these dietary considerations, people can support their body's healing process and potentially speed up recovery from chicken pox. 
• Individuals with chickenpox should avoid allergenic foods as they can potentially activate allergic reactions and further worsen the symptoms of chickenpox. Some common allergens include:
  • Peanuts
  • Shellfish
  • Eggs

Conclusion

The diet for chicken pox has a significant influence on recovery and symptom management. By focusing on nutrient-rich foods that boost the immune system and promote skin healing, patients can support their body's fight against the virus. On the other hand, avoiding foods that may worsen symptoms or slow down healing is equally important. Staying well hydrated and consuming a balanced diet with fruits, vegetables, soft proteins, and healthy fats is key to speeding up recovery and minimizing complications.

Dt. Sushma

Dietician and Nutrition