Chickenpox is a highly contagious viral infection that primarily affects children, but can also affect adults. The symptoms of chickenpox include fever, headache, and a characteristic rash that appears as small, itchy, fluid-filled blisters. While chickenpox is usually a mild illness, it can be uncomfortable and disruptive, particularly for young children.
One of the most important things you can do when you have chickenpox is to support your body’s immune system with a healthy diet. Certain foods can provide your body with the nutrients it needs to fight off the virus and speed up the healing process. In this article, we’ll explore 10 nutritious foods you should eat when you have chickenpox.
1. Bone Broth:
Bone broth is a nutrient-rich soup made by simmering animal bones and connective tissue. It’s packed with immune-boosting amino acids like glycine, proline, and arginine, as well as minerals like calcium, magnesium, and phosphorus. Bone broth is also a rich source of collagen, which is essential for healthy skin and wound healing.
When you have chickenpox, bone broth can help support your immune system and provide your body with the nutrients it needs to repair damaged skin. It’s also easy to digest, which is important when you’re feeling unwell.
2. Fruits:
Fruits like oranges, kiwis, and strawberries are packed with vitamin C, which is essential for a healthy immune system. Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that can help reduce inflammation and promote healing.
Other fruits like blueberries and raspberries are high in antioxidants called anthocyanins, which have been shown to have anti-viral and immune-boosting properties.
3. Vegetables:
Vegetables like spinach, kale, and broccoli are rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as other antioxidants like beta-carotene and lutein. These nutrients are essential for a healthy immune system and can help reduce inflammation.
Other vegetables like sweet potatoes and carrots are rich in beta-carotene, which is important for healthy skin and wound healing.
4. Protein-Rich Foods:
Protein is essential for building and repairing tissues in the body, including the skin. When you have chickenpox, it’s important to eat protein-rich foods like eggs, chicken, fish, and beans to help support your body’s healing process.
These foods are also rich in other nutrients like zinc and iron, which are essential for a healthy immune system.
5. Garlic:
Garlic has long been known for its immune-boosting and anti-viral properties. It contains a compound called allicin, which has been shown to have anti-viral, anti-bacterial, and anti-fungal properties.
When you have chickenpox, adding garlic to your diet can help support your immune system and speed up the healing process.
6. Ginger:
Ginger is a powerful anti-inflammatory food that can help reduce inflammation and pain associated with chickenpox. It also has immune-boosting and anti-viral properties that can help support your body’s healing process.
You can add ginger to your diet by making ginger tea or adding fresh ginger to soups and stews.
7. Turmeric:
Turmeric is a spice that contains a powerful anti-inflammatory compound called curcumin. Curcumin has been shown to have immune-boosting and anti-viral properties, making it an excellent food to eat when you have chickenpox.
You can add turmeric to your diet by making turmeric tea or adding it to soups and stews.
8. Honey:
Honey is a natural anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory food that can help soothe the skin and reduce itching associated with chickenpox. It also has immune-boosting properties
9. Oatmeal:
Oatmeal is an excellent source of fiber, which helps regulate digestion and prevent constipation, a common symptom of chickenpox. It also contains compounds that soothe the skin and relieve itching. You can eat oatmeal plain or add fruits and nuts for a nutritious and filling breakfast.
10. Yogurt:
Yogurt contains probiotics, which are beneficial bacteria that help restore the balance of the gut microbiome. This is important because chickenpox can affect the digestive system, leading to diarrhea or vomiting. Yogurt also provides protein and calcium that support bone health.