Signs And Symptoms Of Chikungunya And The Best Foods To Counter It

Chikungunya is a rare fatal mosquito-borne disease that is similar to dengue fever. It highly affects our body’s immune system and has symptoms that last for 3 to 7 days.

Listed below are some of its major symptoms:

  1. Headache, nausea, fatigue, and rashes that tend to be very intense around the limbs and trunk
  2. Residual arthritis
  3. Swollen joints. This can result in meningoencephalitis.

According to health experts, patients with this disease should eat the right food to strengthen the immune system.

Here are some of the foods that are recommended to counter Chikungunya.

Foods Rich In Vitamins C

Foods rich in vitamin C help boost our immunity; heal wounds and aids in the formation of bones, muscles, tendons, and other blood vessels. Consume more of guavas, oranges, and kiwis.

Foods Rich In Vitamin E

Vitamin E helps prevent rheumatoid arthritis, heart attacks, and cancers and also promote good health and flawless skin. Some of a few examples of foods containing vitamin E are berries, broccoli, nuts, and tropical fruits.

Leafy Veggies

Leafy greens are one of the best foods for our bodies. They are very low in calories and are packed with nutrients that are essential to replenish the body and combat the chikungunya virus. They are loaded with vitamin C that fights off the free radicals and protects our body from arthritis.

Furthermore, leafy greens have significant levels of vitamin A needed by our bodies to ensure bone growth and lower our risk of cancer. Overall, the consumption of leafy veggies can help restore our health and keep us away from Chikungunya.

Homemade Soups

Always opt for vegetarian soups if the patient is still running temperature. Tomato soup or carrot soup is a must-try. They are super-rich in vitamin A. Moreover, soups made of beans, lean meat or fish can also be consumed.

Apples And Plantains

When recovering from Chikungunya, its best to eat more apples and plantains. Apples are packed with fiber that helps prevent constipation and keep the intestines clean. Plantains are members of the banana family, but they are starchier and lower in sugar as well as full of fiber that cleanses the digestive tract and ensures lower levels of cholesterol.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Omega 3 fatty helps reduce blood clots, allows the brain to function properly, boosts memory, and reduces the chances of stroke and also the symptoms of arthritis. Some of the foods rich in these healthy fats are tuna, oysters, salmon, mackerel, sardines, walnuts, pumpkin seeds, and flaxseeds.

Coconut Water

Coconut water detoxifies the body while keeping the patient hydrated. This is beneficial during chikungunya fever. Additionally, coconuts were proven to be helpful for the liver.