Dengue recovery is often a slow process, as the body needs time to heal from the post-viral inflammatory response. For many, recovery can stretch over weeks or even months, with symptoms such as fatigue, weakness, joint pain, and muscle aches. The illness can also cause significant fluid loss, making hydration a critical part of recovery.
Nutrition plays an important role in regaining strength and energy after dengue. Among the many recommended foods and drinks, coconut water stands out. Doctors and nutrition experts often advise it because it not only keeps the body hydrated but also replenishes key electrolytes such as potassium, sodium, and manganese.
On World Coconut Day (September 2), let’s take a closer look at how coconut water can support recovery after dengue.
“Dengue fever typically causes high fever, body weakness, nausea, and substantial loss of body fluids. Ensuring proper hydration and electrolyte balance is very important during recovery. Coconut water is considered a natural super-drink for those recovering from dengue because it quenches thirst and restores strength in the body,” Dr Ravi Kumar Shah, Senior Consultant- Geriatric Medicine & Internal Medicine, Marengo Asia Hospitals Gurugram told Financial Express.com.
Relieves dehydration
People may lose a lot of fluids due to fever, vomiting, or lowered appetite. This may raise risk of dehydration. Coconut water is the perfect drink to restore the body’s fluid balance, making it more effective than plain water to ease dehydration.
“Coconut water is packed with electrolytes like potassium, sodium, magnesium, and calcium. These minerals are essential to restore hydration levels, maintain blood pressure, and support proper muscle and nerve function. Unlike sugary sports drinks or artificial energy beverages, coconut water is naturally low in calories and free of additives, making it gentle on a recovering stomach,” says Haripriya N, Clinical Nutritionist at Cloudnine Group of Hospitals, Chennai, T Nagar told Financial Express.com.
Boosts immunity
Coconut water is the perfect low-calorie drink you need while recovering from dengue. Rich in antioxidants, vitamins, proteins, potassium, and chloride, it strengthens the immune response of the body and reduce oxidative stress. “The body recovers faster with stronger immunity in a dengue patient, says Dr Shah.
Promotes digestion
While recovery from dengue, people may suffer from digestive trouble and poor appetite. Haripriya N says coconut water being alkaline in nature, can soothe acidity and ease digestive discomfort, a common issue when patients are on strong medications or have a poor appetite. “Since dengue patients are often advised to avoid oily, heavy, or spicy foods, coconut water becomes an easy, soothing, and palatable option to meet hydration needs without burdening the digestive system,” says the dietitian.
Dr Shah agrees that coconut water being light can be easily digestible as while recovering from the disease, heavy foods and drinks aren’t recommended.
How much coconut water to have
“Incorporating coconut water two times a day during dengue recovery is highly beneficial,” says Haripriya. The dietitian suggests including papaya, pomegranate, pulses and leafy greens in the diet to get a good supply of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants for complete healing.