Hello, I'm Dr. Emily, a registered dietitian and certified diabetes educator. I'm here to help you understand what to eat and avoid when you're battling a fever.

A fever is your body's way of fighting off infection. It's important to remember that food alone won't cure a fever, but eating the right things can help you feel better and support your body's recovery.

Here are some foods to avoid when you have a fever:

* Spicy foods: Spicy foods can irritate your stomach and make your fever feel worse. When you have a fever, your digestive system is already working harder to fight the infection. Spicy foods can further increase inflammation and discomfort in your stomach, leading to nausea and vomiting.
* Fatty foods: Fatty foods can be harder for your body to digest and can lead to an upset stomach. Similar to spicy foods, fatty foods can also slow down digestion and put additional strain on your digestive system.
* Sugary foods and drinks: While sugary foods might seem appealing when you're feeling weak, they can actually worsen your fever. Sugary foods and drinks can contribute to inflammation, which can worsen your fever and make you feel worse overall. Additionally, they can cause blood sugar spikes and crashes, leading to fatigue and decreased energy.
* Alcohol: Alcohol is a diuretic, meaning it makes you lose fluids. When you have a fever, it's crucial to stay hydrated, and alcohol can hinder your body's ability to do so. Furthermore, alcohol can depress your immune system, potentially making it harder for your body to fight off the infection causing your fever.
* Caffeine: While a cup of coffee or tea might seem like a good idea to perk you up, caffeine can dehydrate you. Dehydration can worsen fever symptoms and make you feel worse.

**Here are some tips for staying hydrated when you have a fever:**

* Drink plenty of fluids: Water is the best choice, but you can also have clear broths, sports drinks, or diluted juice.
* Avoid sugary drinks: They can dehydrate you.
* Eat fruits and vegetables: They contain natural electrolytes and can help you stay hydrated.

**Here are some foods that can help you feel better when you have a fever:**

* Broths and soups: They are easy to digest and can help you stay hydrated.
* Soft fruits and vegetables: Bananas, applesauce, and cooked vegetables are easier to digest than raw fruits and vegetables.
* Plain yogurt: Yogurt is a good source of probiotics, which can help support your immune system.
* Oatmeal: Oatmeal is a good source of fiber and can help you feel full and energized.
* Eggs: Eggs are a good source of protein, which can help you recover from your illness.

Remember:

* Listen to your body: If you're not feeling hungry, don't force yourself to eat.
* Get plenty of rest: Rest is important for your body to fight off infection.
* Talk to your doctor: If your fever is high or doesn't go away after a few days, see your doctor.

While it's important to avoid certain foods when you're fighting a fever, it's also crucial to listen to your body and prioritize foods that you can easily tolerate. If you have any concerns, talk to your doctor or a registered dietitian.

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