For typhoid recovery, it is crucial to follow a diet that is easy to digest, nutritious, and helps maintain hydration. Here is what to eat and avoid during typhoid:
Foods to Eat in Typhoid
- Carbohydrates: Focus on energy-rich, easily digestible carbs such as boiled rice, porridge, white bread, pasta, baked potatoes, and daliya. These provide energy without stressing the digestive system
- Cooked Vegetables: Soft, cooked vegetables like carrots, green beans, squash, and beets are recommended as they are gentle on the stomach
- Fruits: Ripe, soft fruits such as bananas, melons, applesauce, and canned fruits provide vitamins and minerals. Bananas are particularly beneficial for energy and potassium
- Proteins: Include lean proteins like boiled eggs, chicken, turkey, fish, tofu, paneer, and legumes to support tissue repair and immunity
- Dairy: Low-fat or fat-free milk, yogurt, and cheese are good protein sources. Yogurt is also valuable for its probiotics which aid digestion and restore gut flora
- Fluids: Staying hydrated is essential. Drink plenty of water, coconut water, herbal teas, fruit juices, buttermilk, and broths to maintain electrolyte balance and prevent dehydration
- Other: Honey can be added for its antimicrobial properties and energy boost. Omega-3 rich foods like soya beans and nuts (in moderation) help reduce inflammation
Foods to Avoid in Typhoid
- High-fiber Foods: Raw fruits and vegetables, whole grains, nuts, seeds, and legumes should be avoided as they are hard to digest and can worsen stomach upset
- Spicy and Oily Foods: These irritate the digestive tract and increase inflammation, so avoid chili, pepper, hot sauces, fried foods, and oily snacks
- Certain Vegetables: Avoid gas-producing vegetables like cabbage, broccoli, cauliflower, asparagus, and Brussels sprouts as they cause bloating and discomfort
- Raw or Uncooked Foods: Raw meats, fish, and unpeeled fruits or vegetables should be avoided to prevent further infection risk
- Dry Fruits: Due to their high fiber content, dry fruits like walnuts, almonds, and pistachios should be avoided during typhoid
Additional Tips
- Eat small, frequent meals rather than large portions to reduce digestive burden
- Prefer semi-liquid or soft foods like soups and porridges for easier digestion
- Ensure all water and beverages are boiled or filtered to avoid contamination
Following this diet helps provide energy, supports immune function, and promotes faster recovery from typhoid fever
