Fever is the most common symptom of childhood illness. Almost all children with fever have some degree of appetite loss. The degree of appetite loss depends on- the child’s age(lower the age, higher the appetite loss), associated symptoms (fever with oral ulcers will cause more loss in taste than fever with cough ), the seriousness of the illness, etc. Also, some children have more appetite loss compared to others, which becomes a great concern for parents.
As loss of taste is normal during fever, you should not get apprehensive. Do not try to force-feed the baby. the febrile child gets irritated fast and needs gentle handling. If you constantly try to force the spoon in his mouth, he/she would ultimately vomit. That will further raise your tension.
Hunger for breastfeeding is not lost during fever. Babies or toddlers who are still breastfed should be breastfed as much as they want. If the child does not suck from the breast, that means he may have some oral or throat ulcer or may have some serious illness. Consult with your doctor, fast.
Keep the body hydrated –This is the most important part. Allow the child plenty of water, ORS. look for urine output. If the frequency of urine is less than normal or urine is deep yellow, give more water.
Small frequent feeds are better tolerated during fever.
If your child has a fondness for a specific food, give him that(I am not talking about chocolate or candy or chips).
Foods during fever should contain a good amount of calories, protein, and fluid. It should be rich in antioxidants, zinc, and vitamins(vitamin C). lastly, it must be palatable and easily digestible.
Some foods that are great for a febrile child
- Vegetable soup
- Chicken soup
- Khichri
- Dahlia
- Fruit(puree/ whole according to age)
- Boiled vegetables
- Egg
- Milk
- Oats
Some foods that should be avoided during fever
- Spicy foods
- Fried or fatty foods
- Food with high fiber
- Ghee, butter, or vegetable oil
- Flavored drink
- Caffeinated drink
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