Can children with a fever eat eggs?
Generally speaking, fever refers to an elevated body temperature. Whether a child with a fever can eat eggs depends on the cause of the fever. If the fever is caused by a common cold, eating eggs is acceptable; however, if the fever is due to gastrointestinal infections, it is not recommended. Detailed explanations are as follows:
Eggs contain abundant nutrients, including protein, fat, vitamins, and minerals. When a child's fever is caused by a common cold and their appetite remains relatively good, moderate consumption of eggs can help replenish energy and nutrients consumed during the body's fight against illness. It is recommended to prepare eggs using light cooking methods such as boiling or steaming, and to avoid greasy methods like frying.
If a child's fever is caused by gastrointestinal infections, such as rotavirus infection leading to diarrhea, vomiting, and fever, the child's gastrointestinal function is impaired, digestive enzyme secretion decreases, and digestion capacity is reduced. The protein and other nutrients in eggs are relatively difficult to digest and may increase the burden on the gastrointestinal tract, potentially worsening symptoms such as indigestion, bloating, and vomiting. In such cases, eating eggs is not recommended.
When a child has a fever, it is advisable to consume light, easily digestible foods, as well as foods rich in fiber and vitamins. Additionally, it is important to drink plenty of water and avoid spicy, raw, cold, or greasy foods.