Typhoid – What to Eat and What Not to Eat

Typhoid fever is a bacterial infection caused by Salmonella typhi, often spread through contaminated food and water. It can lead to high fever, weakness, stomach pain, and digestive problems. Along with proper medical treatment, following the right diet can help you recover faster and avoid complications.

Why Diet Matters in Typhoid

Typhoid affects your digestive system and lowers your immunity. Eating the wrong food may worsen symptoms like diarrhea, bloating, and weakness. A light, nutritious, and easy-to-digest diet helps your body heal without adding stress to your stomach.

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Foods to Eat During Typhoid

1. Fluids and Hydration

• Drink plenty of water to prevent dehydration.

• Oral rehydration solutions (ORS), coconut water, clear broths, and herbal teas are excellent choices.

2. Easily Digestible Foods

• Soft boiled rice, khichdi, and mashed potatoes are gentle on the stomach.

• Boiled or steamed vegetables like carrots, bottle gourd, and pumpkin.

3. Fruits (in moderation)

• Bananas, applesauce, steamed apples, and papaya.

• Avoid raw fruits unless properly washed and peeled.

4. Protein-Rich Foods (mild)

• Boiled eggs, soft tofu, or chicken broth if non-vegetarian.

• Moong dal or lentil soup for vegetarians.

5. Probiotics

• Curd or yogurt (in small amounts) helps restore good gut bacteria.

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Foods to Avoid During Typhoid

1. Fried and Oily Foods

• Avoid pakoras, chips, puris, and other deep-fried items. They are hard to digest.

2. Spicy and Rich Foods

• Spices can irritate your gut and worsen diarrhea or stomach pain.

3. Raw Vegetables and Unpeeled Fruits

• These may carry germs if not properly washed, increasing the risk of reinfection.

4. High-Fiber Foods

• Whole grains, raw greens, and beans can be hard on a sensitive stomach.

5. Dairy (except curd)

• Milk and cheese may be difficult to digest and can increase mucus production.

6. Caffeinated and Carbonated Drinks

• Tea, coffee, and soda may irritate your stomach and cause dehydration.

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General Tips

• Eat small, frequent meals instead of heavy ones.

• Maintain good hygiene while preparing and serving food.

• Avoid eating outside food during recovery.

• Gradually reintroduce normal foods once symptoms subside.

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Summary

Typhoid can be exhausting, but with proper medication, rest, and a gentle diet, you’ll be on the road to recovery soon. Always consult your doctor or a dietitian for personalized advice based on your health condition.

Let your food be part of your healing. Stay safe, stay nourished.

Dr. Karuturi Subrahmanyam, MD, FRCP (London), FACP (USA)

Internal Medicine Specialist

Kify Hospital

Danavaipeta

Rajahmundry

Phone : 85000 23456