Can children with a fever eat watermelon?

May 09, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhou Xiaofeng
Introduction
Children with fever can eat watermelon, but it should be consumed in moderation. Fever can cause dehydration in children, and watermelon, which has a high water content, can help replenish fluids, prevent dehydration, and increase urine output, thereby promoting the elimination of toxins from the body. Watermelon also contains a certain amount of sugars, such as glucose and sucrose, which can provide energy to children who feel weak and have increased energy consumption during fever, helping maintain basic metabolic functions.

Generally speaking, children with fever can eat watermelon, but it should be consumed in moderation. Detailed explanations are as follows:

  

Fever can cause children to lose body fluids. Watermelon, which has a high water content, can help replenish fluids and prevent dehydration. It can also help increase urine output, promoting the elimination of toxins from the body. Watermelon contains a certain amount of sugars such as glucose and sucrose, which can provide energy for children who are weak and experiencing high energy consumption due to fever, helping maintain basic body metabolism. If a child has a sore throat accompanying the fever, the juiciness of watermelon can moisten the throat, alleviate pain and discomfort, and make the child feel more comfortable. Rich in vitamin C and other vitamins, watermelon can enhance children's immunity, helping the body resist illness and promote recovery.

However, consumption should be moderate. Watermelon has a high sugar content, and excessive intake may affect a child's appetite and potentially increase the burden on the gastrointestinal tract, leading to indigestion, abdominal pain, diarrhea, and other issues. Particularly for younger children whose digestive systems are not yet fully developed, intake should be controlled. If the fever is caused by certain specific diseases, such as diabetic ketoacidosis, or if the child has diabetes with unstable blood sugar control, eating watermelon is not recommended to avoid blood sugar fluctuations that could worsen the condition. Additionally, if the child is allergic to watermelon, it should not be consumed.

When giving watermelon to a child with fever, it is recommended to choose fresh, room-temperature watermelon and avoid chilled watermelon to prevent gastrointestinal discomfort or exacerbation of fever symptoms due to cold stimulation. Parents are advised to make appropriate arrangements according to the child's specific condition. If there are any concerns or if the child's condition is severe, it is recommended to consult a doctor's opinion.

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