Typhoid fever is a bacterial infection caused by Salmonella typhi, most commonly found in areas with poor sanitation. It can lead to serious health complications if not managed properly, including prolonged fever, fatigue, and digestive distress. While medical treatment is essential, dietary management plays a crucial role in symptom relief and recovery. A well-planned typhoid diet chart supports immune function, aids tissue repair, and helps restore energy levels, thereby promoting faster healing.

What is a Typhoid Diet Chart?

A typhoid diet chart is designed to provide essential nutrients that fortify the immune system, aid tissue repair, and restore energy levels during recovery. By focusing on easily digestible foods, patients can alleviate symptoms, support digestive health, and reduce strain on the liver and kidneys. This diet ensures balanced nutrition while avoiding foods that could worsen symptoms or delay healing.

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What Foods to Eat and Avoid During Typhoid Fever?

Choosing the right foods is crucial for managing typhoid symptoms and supporting recovery. Foods rich in protein and omega-3 fatty acids, such as eggs, fish, and tofu, are beneficial. Ripe bananas, apples, papayas, and melons are good fruit options. Easily digestible foods like porridge, baked potatoes, chicken soup, and soft rice are recommended. Adding lemon juice and turmeric milk can enhance recovery due to their immune-boosting properties.

During recovery, certain foods should be avoided to prevent further complications. Nuts, seeds, whole grains, dried fruits, and raw vegetables are prohibited due to their high fibre content and difficulty in digestion. Spicy, fatty, and processed foods should also be avoided as they may worsen symptoms.

Foods To Eat During Typhoid Fever

• Proteins: Turkey, fish, eggs, chicken, tofu, ground meat
• Cooked vegetables: Boiled potato, carrots, green beans, beets, squash
• Fruits: Watermelon, grapes, ripe bananas, applesauce, canned fruit
• Grains: Porridge, daliya (broken wheat porridge), white rice, pasta, white bread, crackers
• Beverages: Coconut water, lime juice, roohafza, bottled water, herbal tea, juice, broth
• Dairy products: Yogurt, low fat or fat-free pasteurized milk, buttermilk, cheese, and ice cream (as tolerated)

1. Yogurt
Yogurt contains probiotics that can improve gut health and alleviate symptoms like loose motions in typhoid patients.

2. Watermelon and Grapes
These fruits are easily digestible and rich in water, helping to restore hydration and provide essential nutrients.

3. Boiled Potato
Potatoes are a good source of carbohydrates and can help overcome sudden weight loss due to their high calorific value.

4. Porridge and Daliya
Porridge and daliya are dense carbohydrate foods that aid digestion and boost strength.

5. Plenty of Fluids
Fluids like coconut water, lime juice, roohafza, and buttermilk should be consumed in abundance to maintain hydration.

6. Bananas
Bananas are highly nutritious and provide energy, potassium, and antioxidants, which are beneficial for recovery.

7. White Rice
White rice is rich in carbohydrates and assists in easy digestion, compensating for energy lost during typhoid.

8. Bottled Water
Bottled water contains essential minerals and is free from harmful bacteria, reducing the risk of infection.

9. Herbal Tea
Herbal tea boosts the immune system and aids detoxification.

10. Coconut Water
Coconut water is low in calories and sugar, replenishing lost electrolytes during typhoid.

Foods To Avoid During Typhoid Fever

• Raw vegetables: Broccoli, kale, cauliflower, cabbage, onions
• Fruits: Dried fruit and raw berries, pineapple, and kiwi
• Whole grains: Quinoa, couscous, barley, buckwheat, brown rice
• Nuts: Almonds, pistachios, macadamia nuts, walnuts
• Seeds: Pumpkin seeds, flax seeds, chia seeds
• Legumes: Black beans, kidney beans, lentils, chickpeas
• Spicy foods: Hot peppers, jalapeños, paprika, cayenne pepper
• Fatty foods: Donuts, mozzarella sticks, fried chicken, potato chips, onion rings

1. Raw Vegetables
Raw vegetables produce gas and bloating, increasing pressure on the digestive system.

2. Fruits
High fibre fruits are hard to digest and may suppress the digestive system.

3. Whole Grains
Whole grains take longer to digest, increasing pressure on the digestive system.

4. Nuts
Nuts have high fibre content, making them difficult to digest.

5. Seeds
Seeds keep the gut full for an extended period, increasing digestion time.

6. Legumes
Legumes cause bloating and suppress digestion.

7. Spicy Foods
Spicy foods result in inflammation of the intestines, degrading health conditions.

8. Fatty Foods
Fatty foods suppress the digestive system and increase digestive complications.

Typhoid Diet Chart for Patient

Patient with typhoid fever should follow the below typhoid diet plan for fast recovery.

Sample Typhoid Diet Plan

• Breakfast: Soft porridge made from oats, a boiled egg, and a cup of herbal tea.
• Lunch: Plain rice with boiled vegetables and a side of plain yoghurt.
• Dinner: Mashed potatoes and grilled chicken, paired with a clear vegetable soup.
• Healthy Snacks: Bananas, applesauce, oral rehydration solutions, or herbal teas.
• Portion Sizes and Frequency: Smaller, frequent meals help maintain balanced digestion and energy levels.

Importance of Following the Typhoid Diet Chart

Following a typhoid diet is essential for symptom management and a smooth, swift recovery. Proper nutrition bolsters the immune system, helping the body combat infection and ward off complications.

Common Typhoid Symptoms

• Continuous high body temperature
• Fatigue
• Headache
• Body ache
• Indigestion
• Constipation
• Vomiting
• Loss of appetite
• Diarrhoea

Read more about - Headache Types, Constipation Causes, and Home Treatment For Diarrhoea.

Conclusion

Adhering to a typhoid diet chart is vital for anyone recovering from typhoid fever. This diet manages symptoms and speeds up recovery by supporting liver function and overall health with nutrient-rich, easily digestible foods while avoiding those that could hinder progress. At BLK Max Super Speciality Hospital, we are committed to assisting your recovery with expert dietary guidance. Reach out for personalised advice, and let us support you in regaining your health effectively.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is milk good for typhoid patients?

Yes, but it should be boiled before consumption to reduce the risk of bacterial infection.

2. Can I eat roti during typhoid?

Roti contains high fibre, which is hard to digest. It is best avoided during typhoid.

3. How long does typhoid stay in your body?

Symptoms can improve within 3 to 5 days with proper medication and care.

4. Why is typhoid reinfection common?

Typhoid is transmitted through the faecal-oral route, making reinfection possible without proper hygiene.

5. How can I prevent infecting others?

Maintain hygiene and proper sanitation, and wash hands with soap and clean water after using the toilet.

6. What is the fastest way to recover from typhoid?

Timely medication, easily digestible foods, and sufficient hydration.

7. What antibiotics kill typhoid?

Ceftriaxone, Levofloxacin, Azithromycin, and Ciprofloxacin are commonly used.

8. Can we take a bath in typhoid?

Bathing is safe, but hair should be dried promptly to avoid colds.

9. What are the key components of a typhoid diet chart?

Soft, easily digestible foods, proper hydration, and avoidance of spicy, fatty, or high-fibre foods.

10. How long should I follow the typhoid diet?

Continue until fully recovered, usually a few weeks post-infection.

11. Can I include fruits in my diet during typhoid fever?

Yes, but opt for soft, non-acidic fruits like bananas and cooked fruits like applesauce.

12. What should I drink while recovering from typhoid?

Drink plenty of fluids like water, herbal teas, and oral rehydration solutions.

13. Are there specific foods that can speed up recovery?

Foods rich in protein and vitamins, such as lean meats and cooked vegetables, help in recovery.

14. How can I make meals more appealing during typhoid recovery?

Vary textures and flavours within the recommended foods, and focus on presentation.

15. When should I seek medical advice regarding my diet?

If symptoms worsen or you have concerns, consult your healthcare provider immediately.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for educational purposes only and should not be considered as medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for typhoid diagnosis and treatment.

References

1. WHO. (2023). Typhoid. https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/typhoid

2. JAMA Network. (2024). DIET IN TYPHOID FEVER. https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jama/fullarticle/430435

3. Medindia. (n.d.). Diet during Typhoid - References. https://www.medindia.net/health/diet-and-nutrition/diet-during-typhoid-references.htm

4. Netmeds. (2024). Dietary Management And Foods To Avoid During Typhoid Fever. https://www.netmeds.com/c/health-library/post/typhoid-fever-dietary-management-and-foods-to-avoid-during-typhoid-fever

5. ScienceDirect. (1941). Banana diet in the treatment of typhoid fever in children. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0022347641801917

6. NCBI Bookshelf. (2024). Typhoid Fever. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK557513/