what to eat in malaria - #37548
I am dealing with malaria right now, and it's been such a struggle for me! Just a few days ago, I got hit with a high fever and terrible chills, and after going to the doc, they confirmed it's malaria. So, I’m trying to figure out everything I can do to support my recovery. I keep hearing that diet can play a huge role in healing. That got me wondering, what to eat in malaria? Like, do I just stick to plain rice and soup or are there more specific foods I should focus on?? I feel like I've been in a daze, sleeping a lot but also needing to eat something that helps my body fight this. I heard leafy greens and some fruits can be good, but I'm not sure which ones really help. Maybe something to build my strength back up? I've also read about some specific remedies in Ayurveda that people swear by, but I get confused with so many opinions out there. Like, is it true that garlic and turmeric could really be beneficial? And what about hydration?? Should I be drinking more coconut water or sticking to plain water? Really hope for some guidance on what to eat in malaria! Thanks in advance!
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Doctors' responses
When dealing with malaria, dietary considerations are crucial as they aid the body in recovery alongside prescribed medical treatments. Start by focusing on easily digestible foods that support your agni, or digestive fire. A clear broth rice or kichadi— a combination of rice and mung dal—is gentle on digestion and can be soothing when you’re unwell.
Incorporating garlic indeed holds beneficial properties—it’s antimicrobial and can help strengthen your immune response. You can crush a few cloves and add them to your meals. As for turmeric, its curcumin content is known for anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits, which can be helpful in aiding recovery and reducing complications. A warm turmeric milk, made using a pinch of turmeric in warm milk, could be consumed daily if you tolerate dairy. You may use almond or coconut milk as alternatives.
Regarding hydration, coconut water is excellent for maintaining electrolyte balance, but it is also important to include plain water to ensure proper hydration. Sip fluids consistently throughout the day to avoid dehydration—a common issue in malaria due to fever.
Leafy greens are great, but focus on those that are less likely to upset your digestion. Spinach and moringa can be particularly helpful due to high iron content, supporting blood health which is often compromised in malaria. Consume them cooked to ease digestion.
Fruits like pomegranates and apples are nourishing options. They help build rasa dhatu (plasma) and ojas (vital energy) necessary for your recovery. Avoid very sour or heavy fruits that might burden your digestion.
Ensure you rest adequately as your body needs energy to fight the infection. Pay attention to your body’s signals and eat small, frequent meals to avoid overloading your system. Ayurvedic herbal tonics such as Guduchi (Tinospora Cordifolia), may support immunity and recovery, but consulting with an Ayurvedic practitioner is advisable for tailored guidance. Always prioritize concurrent medical advice for conditions like malaria to ensure comprehensive treatment.

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