Can I eat watermelon when I have a fever?
May 09, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yu Yongchao
Introduction
In general, people with a fever can eat watermelon, but it should be consumed in moderation. Fever causes the body to lose a significant amount of water through the skin and respiration, making dehydration more likely. Watermelon has a high water content, approximately 90% or more, and consuming it can help replenish the fluids lost due to fever, assist in preventing dehydration, promote urination, remove heat, and help lower body temperature.
Generally speaking, it is acceptable to eat watermelon when experiencing a fever, but it should be consumed in moderation. The detailed explanation is as follows:
Fever causes the body to lose significant amounts of water through the skin and respiration, making dehydration more likely. Watermelon has a high water content, approximately 90% or more, and consuming watermelon can help replenish the fluids lost due to fever, prevent dehydration, promote urination, remove heat, and help lower body temperature.
During fever, the body's energy consumption increases. Watermelon contains a certain amount of sugar that can provide energy to maintain basic metabolic functions. Additionally, watermelon contains vitamin C, B-complex vitamins, potassium, and other vitamins and minerals that can supplement nutrients required during fever, aiding in recovery. Sore throat often accompanies fever, and the juicy, sweet nature of watermelon can soothe the throat, relieve throat pain and dryness, and make the patient feel more comfortable.
If the fever is caused by a gastrointestinal infection or is accompanied by severe gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, then caution should be exercised when consuming watermelon. Because watermelon has a cold nature and contains a relatively high amount of sugar, it may increase the burden on the digestive system, worsening gastrointestinal discomfort. Individuals with diabetes should also avoid consuming large amounts of watermelon even if their blood sugar levels are well-controlled during fever. Watermelon has a relatively high glycemic index, which may cause a rapid increase in blood sugar levels after consumption,不利于病情控制 (not conducive to controlling the condition), and may affect recovery. If you have any concerns or discomfort, please seek medical attention promptly and follow the advice of your doctor.
