Diet Chart For Measles patients

Measles is an infectious viral disease causing fever and a red rash, typically occurring in childhood. A high fever is normally the first sign of measles. It starts ten to twelve days after being exposed to the virus. The fever would last for four to seven days and might also include a runny nose, red eyes, sore throat, koplik spot (white swelling in the mouth) or rash. It starts at the hairline and spreads to neck, torso, limbs, feet, and hands.

The adverse effects can be prevented by following a Measles Diet plan. During the acute stage, following a fruit diet will provide necessary nutrients. In the convalescence stage when the temperature reaches the normal level, consume healthy food items. Measles Diet plan also includes drinking around 8 glasses of water, along with other liquids like diluted lemon juice, barley juice, orange juice, coconut water. Adults can have herbal tea in their Measles diet as well.

Measles diet plan includes:

1. Food rich in Vitamin C like Orange, Grapefruit, and
2. Product rich in Vitamin A like Spinach, Green leafy vegetables, etc
3. Avoiding greasy food; food containing fat and processed items.
4. Not consuming caffeinated and sweet drinks like coffee and soft drinks.
5. Immunity can be improved by drinking a boiled mixture of – half cup water, little ginger, two-three leaves of sweet basil(tulsi) and mint leaves.

Try to avoid these food items while following measles diet plan:

1. Fried food
2. Junk food,
3. Processed food
4. Heavy meats
5. Spices
6. Oil
7. Aerated drinks
8. Sweets and
9. Salty snacks

Do's & Don'ts if you are following Measles diet plan:

1. Measles patient must be kept in isolation, for the disease is infectious and should be given complete rest, which will facilitate speedy recovery.
2. The patient can be given lots of warm water to drink, as this flushes the toxins out of the system. For better results, drink them in the mornings on empty stomach and in the evenings.
3. Initially, the patient should be given juices of fruits like orange and lemon, as the person experiences loss of appetite, this would be sufficient.
4. Gradually, the patient can start eating fruits and well balanced diet, which includes lots of green vegetables and fruits, to boost the immune system.
5. Measles patient should be kept in well ventilated room.
6. Avoid sunlight as measles damages eye tissues which results in water eyes. The room should have subdued light, so as to not further cause damage to the eyes.
7. Avoid milk, milk products, as they may worsen the condition. If the child is heavily dependent on milk, limit the intake.
8. Ensure that the room and the surroundings are clean and tidy

For the first 3 days:

1. Fruits : Oranges, grapefruit, lemons
2. Milk

When temperature becomes normal

1. Eggs
2. Bread
3. Butter
4. Mashed Potato
5. 8 glasses of water, lemon juice, coconut water, orange juice